Doc. No.

: MSS-17013-PR-009

Mermaid Subsea Services Ltd. Revision: 28-08-2017

Approved by: DMR

1.28.7 Personnel Transfer

1. Weather Limit Guidelines

Assuming proper preparations have been made and all other factors considered and
found favorable the following weather limits are recommended for the various types of
vessels and their transfers:
WIND SPEED
TYPE OF TRANSFER MAX SEA HEIGHT
(knots)
(metres)

1) Swing Rope <25 1.8

2) Personnel Basket <25 2.0

3) Gangway <25 2.0

Note 1: Subject to the Vessel Master’s discretion.
2. Personnel Transfer via basket
(i) Comply with SHELL and Vessel MOPO or weather limit guidelines
(ii) Verify with the Master/Captain that the weather condition is permitting for
personnel transfer.
(iii) Ensure personnel conducting the transfer are competent and experienced in
conducting a safe transfer operation
(iv) Perform a pre-use inspection including visual checks of the condition of the Billy
Pugh, rigging connections and tag lines.
(v) Confirm that there is sufficient clear deck space on both receiving vessel or
platform for the Billy Pugh to be landed
(vi) Everyone involved has the responsibility and authority to stop the operation on
the grounds of safety, by using Stop Work Authority (SWA)
3. Personnel Transfer via Swing Rope
(i) In favourable calm sea conditions this is a routine activity because the vessel can
hold station near the Installation landing stage and provide a stable platform;
however, if the vessel cannot be manoeuvred into this position then transfer by
swing rope shall not be attempted.
(ii) First time swing rope users shall identify themselves to the vessel crew
(iii) Light weight hand carries can be passed across from the vessel passenger
landing stage to the landing platform
(iv) Crew members and/or passengers will confirm the rope is in good condition and
not coated with oil, mud or chemicals; if a defect is observed the rope shall not
be used and a hazard observation or condition report will be submitted to
Installation management
(v) Vessel Master can ask for personnel basket transfer instead of swing rope.
(vi) Vessel Master, deck crew and passenger can exercise SWA any time if they feel it
is unsafe during transfer.
4. Personnel Transfer via Gangway
(i) Verify with the Master/Captain that the weather condition is permitting for
gangway transfers.
(ii) All personnel who intend to use the gangway facility shall have a full
understanding of the control system in use and its importance prior to transferring

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 Doc. No.: MSS-17013-PR-009

Mermaid Subsea Services Ltd. Revision: 28-08-2017

Approved by: DMR

across the gangway and they must also have a full understanding of procedures
in force for emergency situations.
(iii) Portable gangway with proper safety net and securing method to be used in
personnel transfer
(iv) Life saving equipment, ready for immediate use

1.29 Emergency Response Plan

1.29.1 Emergency Response

MSS have prepared specifically for this project their own Emergency Response Plan and
Bridging Document which will address, at a minimum, the following but not limit to:
• Organization of Emergency Management
• Roles and Responsibilities
• Internal and External / Offshore and Onshore Contact Number
• Onboard Life Saving and Fire Fighting Appliances
• Severe Weather, including Tropical Revolving Storm Management Plan that
ensure participation of Subcontractor Emergency Management Team, all Vessels
and their supporting Tugs
• Emergency Call Out and Notification
• Evacuation / Abandonment Plan
• Medical Emergency (MEDEVAC)
• Onboard Fire Control Plan
• Onboard Emergency Alarming and Mustering Procedure
• Severe Pollution / Spill Contingency Plan
• Emergency response scenario that cover their activities
• Scheduled Drills and Training
The emergency response incorporates logistical supports and facilities such as helicopter,
specialized medical advice, and hospital services as contracted by MSS and SHELL.
It is important to highlight that all emergency contact numbers (fixed line phones or
hand-phones) of relevant offices and key personnel are to be checked and updated
prior to mobilization and at frequent weekly intervals.

1.29.2 MEDEVAC

The primary means of MEDEVAC from the MSS Vessel is by MPSV. SHELL-CSR will be liaised
regarding MEDEVAC requested onboard DSV.
The authorization to use the helicopter for MEDEVAC will be authorized by Doctor on
MPSV. Information required at a minimum as following:
• Location of emergency
• Nature of emergency
• Stretcher or walking
• Doctor / paramedic required?
• Special needs (defibrillator, suction, etc.)

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