What percentage of vessels with rope anchor line must be inspected?

• A. 60%
• B. 80%
• C. 100%
• D. 40%

Answer: (B)

Regular inspection of rope anchor lines is about ensuring the line will perform safely under load and not fail when you depend on it. The requirement states that eighty percent of vessels with a rope anchor line must be inspected within the specified period. This target strikes a balance between thorough safety coverage and practical resource use, so a large portion of the fleet is checked without needing to inspect every single line at every interval.

During inspection, look for wear and damage that could compromise strength: frayed fibers, broken strands, core exposure, stiff or glazed rope, soft spots, excessive abrasion where the rope contacts windlasses, fairleads, or the deck, and any signs of mildew or rot on natural fibers. Also verify that terminations and splices are sound and that the rope type is appropriate for its anchoring use. If damage or significant wear is found, retire or replace the rope and document the inspection so the vessel cannot rely on that line until it’s repaired or replaced.

The eighty percent target ensures broad, representative safety checks across the fleet; inspecting less than that could miss prevalent issues, while inspecting every line in full every time may be impractical.