SPM and F(P)SO bow-mooring arrangements
What is being checked
Where bow chain stoppers are fitted, the inspector is checking whether the vessel's SPM or F(P)SO procedures, certificates, maintenance records, physical fittings and HVPQ description agree. Officers must understand the safe preparation and use of the actual bow-mooring arrangement.
Ready onboard
0/10 completePractice questions
Answer aloud, then open the preparation point.
1Show that the HVPQ description matches the bow-mooring equipment fitted.
Use the vessel’s approved procedures, records and fitted-equipment instructions. Demonstrate the evidence rather than giving only a general answer.
2Trace the SWL and serial number of this stopper to its certificate.
Use the vessel’s approved procedures, records and fitted-equipment instructions. Demonstrate the evidence rather than giving only a general answer.
3Why must the closed bow fairlead SWL not be lower than the stopper SWL?
Use the vessel’s approved procedures, records and fitted-equipment instructions. Demonstrate the evidence rather than giving only a general answer.
4Show the intended route of the pick-up line and identify any snagging hazard.
Use the vessel’s approved procedures, records and fitted-equipment instructions. Demonstrate the evidence rather than giving only a general answer.
5What drum is used to handle and stow the pick-up line, and what is its capacity?
Use the vessel’s approved procedures, records and fitted-equipment instructions. Demonstrate the evidence rather than giving only a general answer.
6Why must wedges and Smit-type towing brackets not be used as substitutes in the stopper arrangement?
Use the vessel’s approved procedures, records and fitted-equipment instructions. Demonstrate the evidence rather than giving only a general answer.
Where an observation may arise
Preparation, operation or bow-stopper maintenance instructions are missing.
The physical arrangement or dimensions differ from the HVPQ or bow-mooring plan.
Required independent certificates for stoppers, fairleads or supporting structure are unavailable.
A stopper lacks its SWL or serial number, or cannot be linked to a certificate.
A closed bow fairlead has a lower SWL than the bow stopper.
An obstruction creates a snagging hazard in the pick-up line or chain route.
A warping drum, wedge or Smit-type towing bracket is used contrary to the source guidance.
A stopper, roller, lead or fairlead is defective.
Master's practical note
Stand on the forecastle with the HVPQ and arrangement drawing. Verify the equipment, dimensions, SWL markings and line lead against what is physically fitted. Errors in an old questionnaire often survive several inspections because everybody checks the document against itself instead of against the deck.
Equipment boundary and references
Equipment boundary: Bow stoppers, fairleads, stowage drums and pick-up arrangements are vessel-specific. Follow approved drawings, class or independent certification, manufacturer instructions and terminal requirements.
References
- OCIMF Guidelines for Offshore Tanker Operations, First Edition 2018, section 5.3
- Vessel HVPQ section 10.6
- Approved bow-mooring arrangement plan and certificates
- ISM Code sections 7 and 10
Last reviewed: 2026-08-11