All the COVID-19 safety checks cruiser owners need to make before heading out
The coronavirus crackdown means owners are now having to check over their boats before heading out of the marinaR Marine Sydney has released a pre-departure checklist for motor yacht owners still keen to take their vessels out on the water.
The boatyard technically remains open during the coronavirus pandemic, however, its technicians will use streaming video links to help owners work through any maintenance issues they face while out on the water. The lack of maintenance staff for a visual pre-trip inspection means that many owners will need to step up and carry out the inspection themselves.
The checklist advises owners to run through the following inspections before casting off:
- Ensure engine, drives and genset servicing is up to date
- Test the operation of ball valves
- Check manual bilge pump operation, and check the float switch for automatic bilge pump operation
- Check the freshwater alarm, test all taps, and look over the plumbing for any leaking connections
- Check the anchor and chain for visible signs of damage or decay
- Test all light and ensure that navigation lights are clean
- Check holding tanks
- Check genset operations
- Test horn
- Check ropes and fenders
- Visually check sea strainers for blockages
- Make sure all appliances are working
- Check liferafts and tenders for inflation and engine start
- Check tenders are correctly secured
There is also a list of specific checks for engine rooms:
- Check for all pressure, volts and temperature via the dashboard gauges
- Visually check all engines for seawater or dirt accumulation
- Check fuel, water and oil systems and fuel lines for leaks
- Inspect bonding cables
- Inspect exhaust hoses and engine clamps to ensure there is no deterioration of canvas-reinforced rubber sections
- Check all gauge sensors and alarm senders on engines for firmness and corrosion
- Check operation of all warning lights and horns
- Clean bilges with detergent and freshwater
- Check oil level is not too high or low
R Marine Sydney also advises that to remove any doubt, check every electrical device by switching it on and off to confirm that they are in proper working order.
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