Question 65 GLI05 - Master or Mate of LT 200 GRT

The Correct Answer is B **Why option B ("tail-block and whip which may be used to pass a hawser to the vessel") is correct:** In a typical shore-to-ship rescue operation using a breeches buoy system (often managed by lifeboat crews or coast guard), the process is sequential. The initial 'shot line' (a lightweight line fired over the vessel using a line-throwing apparatus) is too small to support the heavy weight of the breeches buoy or the rescue crew. Therefore, the shot line is used as a messenger to haul heavier equipment across. The next piece of equipment sent out is the **tail-block and whip**. The tail-block is secured to the vessel (usually high up on the mast or suitable strong point), and the whip (a heavier hauling line reeved through the block) is then used to haul the much heavier **hawser** (the main suspension cable/rope) to the vessel. **Why the other options are incorrect:** * **A) hawser which is used to pass a tail-block and whip to the vessel:** This sequence is reversed. The hawser is the final, thick supporting line. It is far too heavy to be pulled out by the initial shot line. The tail-block and whip are used to pull the hawser out, not vice versa. * **C) hawser with breeches buoy and harness attached:** This is incorrect for the same reason as A. The entire heavy system (hawser, breeches buoy, and tackle) cannot be hauled out by the initial lightweight shot line. The hawser must be set up first before the breeches buoy is sent out. * **D) hawser which should be made fast to the vessel below the intended location of the tail-block:** This is incorrect for two reasons: 1) The shot line is not made fast to the hawser initially (see A and C), and 2) the main support line (the hawser) should generally be secured to the vessel **at or near** the same height as the tail-block, which is typically secured high up on the vessel to maximize the angle and minimize sag.