Question 1509 Deck Safety

The correct answer is C) used for fending off. When launching an open lifeboat by falls, the boathooks should be used for fending off the lifeboat from the ship's side as it is being lowered. This helps prevent the lifeboat from colliding with the ship's hull during the launching process. The boathooks should not be secured forward, aft, or amidships, as this could hinder the personnel in the lifeboat and impede the launching operation. Similarly, the boathooks should not be used for picking up survivors in the water, as their primary purpose is to fend off the lifeboat during launching.