COURSE OVERVIEW:

The Mooring and Unmooring Operations for Tankers course is a specialized technical program designed to address the complex ship-to-shore and ship-to-ship interfaces in offshore environments. This course examines the physical dynamics and procedural requirements for securing large crude carriers to Single Buoy Moorings (SBM) and Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) units. It provides a detailed analysis of the environmental forces, such as swell, current, and wind, that influence vessel behavior during approach and stay.

The scope of this training involves a comprehensive look at the equipment and personnel coordination required for tandem and spread mooring configurations. Participants will explore the mechanics of bow loading systems, the use of telemetry for distance monitoring, and the critical role of the tug assistance in maintaining station. The program emphasizes the high-risk nature of these operations, focusing on the prevention of mooring line failures and the management of the "Snap-Back" zone during tensioning.

Coverage includes the regulatory standards set by OCIMF and the specific safety protocols for hazardous zone operations. The course addresses the emergency procedures required for rapid disconnection (breakaway) during adverse weather or technical failure. By blending mechanical engineering principles with practical seamanship, this course equips maritime professionals with the expertise needed to conduct offshore mooring operations with zero incidents and maximum efficiency.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

After completion of this course, the participants will be able to:

1. Identify the structural components and functional logic of SBM and FPSO mooring systems.
2. Analyze the impact of environmental variables on tanker approach and station keeping.
3. Manage the coordination between the tanker bridge, the mooring crew, and support tugs.
4. Execute safe approach maneuvers for tandem mooring with an FPSO unit.
5. Oversee the connection and testing of telemetry and emergency shutdown systems.
6. Utilize various mooring hardware including chafe chains, shackles, and pick-up lines.
7. Explain the functionality of the Single Point Mooring (SPM) swivel and fluid transfer path.
8. Monitor mooring line tension and vessel excursion limits during cargo transfer.
9. Implement safety protocols for working in "Snap-Back" and high-tension zones.
10. Manage the unmooring sequence including line slackening and equipment recovery.
11. Execute emergency disconnection procedures in response to equipment failure.
12. Conduct pre-operation risk assessments specifically for offshore mooring environments.
13. Audit mooring equipment for compliance with international OCIMF guidelines.

TARGET AUDIENCE:  

Mooring Masters, Tanker Deck Officers, FPSO Marine Supervisors, Tug Captains, and Offshore Installation Managers.

TRAINING COURSE METHODOLOGY:

A highly interactive combination of lectures, discussion sessions, and case studies will be employed to maximise the transfer of information, knowledge, and experience. The course will be intensive, practical, and highly interactive. The sessions will start by raising the most relevant questions and motivating everybody to find the right answers. The attendants will also be encouraged to raise more of their questions and to share in developing the right answers using their analysis and experience. There will also be some indoor experiential activities to enhance the learning experience. Course material will be provided in PowerPoint, with necessary animations, learning videos, and general discussions.

The course participants shall be evaluated before, during, and at the end of the course.

COURSE CERTIFICATE:

National Consultant Centre for Training LLC (NCC) will issue an Attendance Certificate to all participants completing a minimum of 80% of the total attendance time requirement.