Winter theme
Learn more about hypothermia, basic layering and contact damages in our monthly theme.
During the winter season there is an increase of some claim categories, especially on the northern latitudes. The table contains some examples of damages that show how the claim frequency looks in our winter statistics. Winter is defined December-March. The number of claims is divided by the number of months.
CONTACT DAMAGES
In the wintertime, it is often strong winds, high wind waves, and swell, which make ship handling and manoeuvring in narrow passages more difficult. The manoeuvring and mooring operations in thick and heavy ice is always more difficult and risky than operation in open water. The ice is not homogenous, which create another difficulty to judge the dynamics of the intended maneuvers and often lead to unexpected vessel movements, which in the worst case can lead to a contact damage.
PREVENTION
Study the winter navigation and ice breaking circulars:
Baltice >>
Consult the NP 100 “The Mariner’s Handbook” for winter navigation
Be conscious of the increased risks with freezing and hypothermia:
BASIC LAYERING FOR COLD WEATHER:
When working in cold weather the concept of layering will keep you warm and safe. How to layer:
- Base layer – long underwear – transport sweat off your skin
- Middle layer – insulating layer – retain your body heat and protect you from the cold
- Outer layer – shielding layer – shields off rain and wind
BASE LAYER: There is a large variety of fabrics, synthetics (polyester, nylon) and natural fibers (merino wool and silk). Each fabric has its benefits, simply go for your own preference.
MIDDLE LAYER: The middle layers also come with a wide range of fabric options, both synthetic and natural. Generally, the thicker the layer the warmer it is.
OUTER LAYER: It is important to have good quality shielding layer, since it will keep the water and wind outside of the inner layers. There is a wide price range from the simplest wind resistant jacket up to professional mountaineering jackets. Most of the jackets allow, at least some, perspiration escape and are at the same time water repellent.
Printable PDF >>basic_layering
