When are you going to need aids and equipment to perform a working task? How do you choose the most appropriate tool, and how do you use it in a correct manner?

You should use aids and equipment:

• When it would be too risky to do a job without them.
• When it is too much of a strain to do the job manually.
• When it would not be possible to do the job without them.

This manual refers to the following aids and equipment you can use aboard ships:

• Equipment - fixed workplaces: Adjustable height tables oven trolleys.
• Equipment - cleaning: Cleaning trolleys, vacuum cleaners, mops, kickers, stools, ladders.
• Lashing gear: Trailer trestles, lashing gear trolleys.
• Lifting gear, etc.: Tackle, strops, wires, jacks, lifting yokes.
• Trucks and internal transport equipment: Fork lift and pallet trucks (possibly self-propelled), trucks, catering trolleys (possibly height adjustable), cage trolleys.

Choice of aids and equipment

When you have to choose the equipment to use, take the following into account:

• Is it suitable for the job and can it be used in that particular working area?
• Is it easy to use with a good working posture?
• Are there any risks involved in its use?
• What does its maintenance require?

Use of equiptment

• Printed instructions in the working language should be available.
• Training in equipment use should be given, including:
•      What jobs should it be used for?
•      How to have the best working posture when using it

• Before using it, make sure it works properly. Any defects and deficiencies should be reported to the maintenance supervisor.