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without excessive strain.%u2022 Proper planning significantly reduces risks associated with mooring operations. Before commencing, a thorough risk assessment should be conducted, considering factors such as weather conditions, tidal currents, berth layout, and vessel characteristics. A clear mooring plan should be developed and communicated to all crew members involved. This plan should include line arrangements, sequence of operations, and contingency measures for unexpected events. Pre-mooring briefings are highly effective in ensuring that everyone understands their roles and responsibilities.%u2022 Fatigue is a major contributing factor to human error in mooring operations. Fatigued crew members are more likely to make mistakes, have slower reaction times, and exhibit reduced situational awareness. To mitigate this risk, ship operators must comply with work and rest regulations. Adequate manning levels should be maintained so that crew members are not overburdened. Where possible, mooring operations should be scheduled to allow sufficient rest beforehand. Promoting a culture in which crew feel comfortable reporting fatigue is also important for maintaining safety.Mooring operations, though routine, present significant risks that require constant vigilance and proper management. Most accidents during mooring are preventable through training, communication, and adherence to safety procedures. By recognising hazards and implementing effective control measures, maritime operators can significantly reduce the risk of injury and ensure safer working conditions for all personnel involved.IACS publishes Recommendation on Onboard Lifting Appliances following SOLAS amendmentsThe International Association of Classification Societies%u2019 (IACS) Recommendation on Onboard Lifting Appliances, introduced in 2026, represents a decisive advancement in maritime safety governance by establishing a unified and technically robust framework for the control, certification, and maintenance of lifting equipment on board ships.In this context, the recommendation was developed in response to amendments adopted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) under the SOLAS Convention, specifically regulation II-1/3-13. It clarifies the regulatory requirements and promotes consistent implementation across classification societies, shipowners, and flag administrations worldwide. Furthermore, it directly addresses the long-standing risks associated with onboard lifting operations, which have historically contributed to serious accidents, equipment failures, and loss of life.Against this regulatory background, the recommendation establishes a comprehensive scope that clearly defines lifting appliances, associated loose gear, and their operational boundaries, thereby removing inconsistencies that previously existed in classification and compliance practices. It explicitly differentiates between new installations, which must fully comply from 1 January 2026, and existing equipment, which must meet the new standards at the first applicable renewal survey. By doing so, it creates a structured transition framework that balances safety imperatives with operational feasibility. Furthermore, it clarifies the treatment of equipment with lower Safe Working Load thresholds, ensuring that safety standards are applied proportionately without compromising risk control.A central pillar of the recommendation is the strict enforcement of certification and documentation requirements, which are essential for verifying the integrity and safe operation of lifting appliances throughout their lifecycle. It mandates the availability and maintenance of comprehensive records, including load test certificates, thorough examination reports, manufacturer specifications, and verified Safe Working Load markings. In cases where legacy equipment lacks complete documentation, the recommendation provides alternative verification methodologies, thereby maintaining safety assurance without imposing impractical compliance burdens on older vessels. This approach strengthens regulatory accountability while recognising the practical limitations associated with an ageing global fleet.The recommendation further strengthens inspection and testing regimes by aligning them with SOLAS requirements and enhancing their practical application. It requires initial proof load testing prior to commissioning, followed by periodic re-testing and systematic inspections at defined intervals. Emphasis is placed on continuous condition monitoring and proactive maintenance to prevent failure, rather than relying solely on reactive measures. This structured approach ensures that lifting appliances remain in a verifiable state of operational safety throughout their service life, significantly reducing the likelihood of mechanical failure during critical operations.In addressing complex and non-standard operational scenarios, the recommendation provides detailed guidance on special cases, including dual-purpose lifting appliances, modified or retrofitted equipment, and the certification of loose gear integrated into lifting systems. By covering these scenarios comprehensively, it eliminates regulatory gaps and ensures that all forms of lifting operations onboard are subject to consistent safety oversight. This is particularly important in modern shipping, where equipment is often adapted for multiple functions and operational flexibility is essential.The implementation of the IACS recommendation is expected to deliver substantial benefits across the maritime industry by establishing a harmonised global standard for lifting appliance safety standards. It enhances operational reliability, reduces regulatory uncertainty, and strengthens the overall safety culture within the sector. Shipowners and operators are compelled to adopt more disciplined maintenance and documentation practices, while classification societies are provided with a clear and consistent benchmark for survey and certification activities. Ultimately, the recommendation not only supports compliance with international regulations but also reinforces the industry%u2019s commitment to safeguarding human life, protecting assets, and ensuring the safe and efficient operation of ships worldwide.Horizon from the bridge266 NX