1.06 TE 06 NPSB Movement Procedures (Kings Bay).pdf

TECHNICAL EXHIBIT 06

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Article 2030 N-PSB MOVEMENT

1. Discussion. N-PSB provides the required level of protection to meet Force Protection needs for units moored in at NSB Kings Bay. Since the handling and transferring of heavy loads is inherently dangerous, it is imperative that the N-PSB be operated, maintained and treated in such a manner so readiness is not adversely affected.

2. Duties and Responsibilities.

a. Safety Observer. The Safety Observer is responsible for the following:

(1) Safe and reliable operation of N-PSB

(2) Qualified Coxswains and Crew Members for N-PSB movement.

(3) Conduct a safety brief to include assignments, weather conditions, current and boat placement. Once this brief has occurred, assignment will not be altered without halting operations and conducting a new brief.

(4) Evaluate the weather conditions to insure safe movement of the N-PSB.

b. Boat Coxswain. Responsible for the safe and proper operation of the small boat he is assigned

on. The Boat Coxswain must be qualified IAW NAVEDTRA and aware of the N-PSB capacities and limitations, as well as all problems and deficiencies that may exist with the assigned vessel. If a problem occurs that prevents normal operation, the operation must be stopped until the problem is resolved and permission to continue is obtained from the Safety Observer. Additionally, he/she will be responsible for the following:

(1) Completing all steps in the Pre-underway Checklist.

(2) Proper supervision of Crew Members assigned to his vessel.

(3) Ensuring that any deficiencies or questions related to safety devices, load-bearing or load-controlling members are reported and resolved prior to operation.

(4) Ensuring that the assigned vessel is operated safely and within posted capacities without endangering crewmembers or other personnel in the area.

(5) The Boat Coxswain shall not engage in any actions that will divert his/her attention away from the handling evolution.

d. Crew Members. In charge of the towing and mooring lines necessary for the N-PSB movement. The Line Handler is responsible for the following:

PORTSVCSDEPTSOP 3120

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(1) The safe and proper handling of all mooring lines and towing lines, including proper operation of the N-PSB and its associated rigging.

(2) Ensuring all lines remain clear of the vessels screw.

(3) Handling of lines in a timely manner as not to hinder the N.P.S.B. movement.

3. N-PSB Movement Crew Assignment.

a. There will be a minimum of 8 persons assigned to as N-PSB movement. These 8 persons will be assigned the following positions. (3) Boat Coxswains, (4) Crew Members and (1) Safety

Observer.

c. Proper radio communications will be maintained at all times. The Safety Observer will be in possession of a working hand held radio and will designate the desired radio channel. VHF Channel

77 may be used if radio traffic is light in the harbor. VHF Channel 73 may be used as an alternative.

4. N-PSB Movement.

a. Prior to casting off the N-PSB from its mooring, two vessels will be made-up to the N-PSB in proper towing make-up and have positive control.

b. Port Control will coordinate with the Submarine to ensure line handlers are present and ready to receive/release the N-PSB.

d. The Safety Observer will coordinate the Coxswains to ensure the safe and proper placement of the N-PSB is at desired location.

6. Safety Precautions. It is beyond the scope of this SOP to list all applicable safety precautions pertinent to N-PSB operations, deck seamanship, and handling evolutions; however, the following precautions apply in all instances and will be strictly adhered to and enforced.

a. Only those personnel who are qualified are authorized to serve as an N-PSB movement Crew

Member.

b. Prior to making any movement, working area must be cleared of all excess personnel and interfering equipment and the landing area of the N-PSB must be clear before commencing the movement.

c. Positive control of the N-PSB must be maintained at all times.

d. Never commence an N-PSB movement without the specific approval from the Port Operations

Officer when weather conditions violate the following:

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1. During inclement weather, when wind speeds are above 30 mph or reduced visibility, N-

PSB movements from the mooring buoys to the submarine and from the submarine to the mooring buoys will be approved by the Port Operations Officer.

2. N-PSB’s movements before sunrise and after sunset will be approved by the Port Operations

Officer.