Question 11 LB01 - Lifeboat Operator

The Correct Answer is D **Why Option D is Correct:** Frapping lines (also known as steadying lines or boat steadying tackle) are lines used during the launching and recovery of a lifeboat or rescue boat. Their primary function is to secure and steady the boat against the side of the ship, particularly while the boat is being lowered through the splash zone or when recovering the boat near the deck. This steadying action prevents the boat from swinging wildly away from the ship's side due to waves, wind, or ship movement, ensuring the safety of the crew embarking/disembarking and the smooth operation of the launch/recovery. **Why Other Options are Incorrect:** * **A) They are needed only on radial davits.** Frapping lines are standard safety equipment required for virtually all types of davits (including gravity, pivot/luffing, and free-fall davits that use retrieval lines), not just radial (luffing) davits. Their use is determined by the need to steady the boat, not the specific davit design. * **B) They are normally attached to the davit span.** Frapping lines are attached to strong points on the ship's structure (usually permanently mounted cleats or padeyes near the embarkation deck) and led down to the boat's gripes or steadying points. The davit span is the structure connecting the davit arms (the wire rope or structural part of the davit rigging); the frapping lines are entirely separate from the main davit hoisting wires and spans. * **C) They are used to clear the puddings.** Puddings (or fenders) are protective materials placed on the ship's side or the lifeboat itself to prevent damage. Frapping lines are used to pull the boat *against* the ship's side to steady it; they have no direct function in clearing or deploying fenders/puddings.