HATCH COVERS — A PRACTICAL GUIDE

The present training booklet together with the accompanying video film shall serve as an excellent and very informative introduction to the hatch covers giving the overall view. It will be best when used in conjunction with the hatch cover operating manual of the particular vessel as this would allow crew members to get specific assistance with the inspection of the hatch covers, their operation and periodical maintenance.

The content of the booklet opens with two chapters dealing with the properties, type and structures of the hatch covers including operating systems and component parts. There the chapters come devoted to the inspection and maintenance of the hatch covers, their safe operation including operation in extreme weather such as hot and cold weather, high winds and heavy rains, methods of testing the hatch covers for water- and weather-tightness including hose testing an ultrasound testing, air and choke test, and hatch covers at sea issues like use of sealing tapes and high expansion foams.

The assessment questions have been provided and supplemented with the correct answers to track the learning progress. There are also two appendixes, the first one lists IMO regulations governing hatch covers while the second one provides the hatch cover inspection list. Absolutely recommended training for all crew members of the vessels equipped with hatch covers.