RULE 272. In this rule a single span means one part of wire, a double span means two parts of wire, a multiple purchase means three or more parts of wire between the derrick head and cross trees or between the lower part of the topping lift span and the deck.
When derricks equipped with single or double span wire topping lifts are being raised or lowered, such wire topping lift or bull wire provided shall be secured by a connecting device, i.e. shackle, clamp, hook, or half hitch, but not by seizing wire alone, to the winch drum or drum end. If the drum end has no positive securing point, the topping lift or bullwire must be secured by at least one round turn prior to being secured to the standing part.
Before working cargo, the topping lift wire shall be secured by sufficient turns around the bitts or cleats or other securing arrangements provided.
On derricks fitted with topping lift securing chains, the chain shall be shackled at the desired length before commencing to lower the derrick.
In vessels fitted with a multiple purchase, because of its length and all of the topping lift cannot fit on the drum end sufficient turns shall be taken on the drum end to raise the derrick safely. When it is necessary to lower derricks fitted with a multiple purchase topping lift, sufficient turns shall be kept on the bitts and cleats provided, or, the wire put on the drum end with sufficient turns to ensure control of the derrick while it is lowered (which must be by surging only) to the desired angle, when it shall be secured safely.
Power shall not be used to lower derricks fitted with multiple purchases.
The topping lift wire shall be ranged on the deck and kinks or turns kept clear while the wire is being handled.
The above rule does not apply to vessels fitted with single, double or multiple topping lifts permanently attached to a topping lift winch operated by power or a bull wire.
In these vessels the bull wire, if fitted, is always to be secured to the winch drum or drum end by a connected device before raising or lowering a derrick.
Only one derrick shall be raised or lowered at a hatch at a time, except when certain electrical or hydraulic controls are fitted and it is practicable and safe to handle more than one at a time.
Sufficient employees are to be employed to carry out these operations safely and efficiently.