This Booklet has been produced as part of the British Shipbuilders programme on Noise Reduction in Shipyards. The programme covers all aspects of shipbuilding both Steelwork and Outfitting.

This particular booklet relates to the Movement of Heavy Loads and Lifting and Turning of Units/Sections. The philosophy is that noise can be either eliminated or reduced if heavy lifting lugs are not welded to the structure to be moved, as they do not have to be subsequently removed with the accompanying noisy operations of grinding, making good the surface if damaged and the dressing of this surface. Photographs and/or sketches are shown where possible to help the reader visualise the procedures described. Booklets covering other aspects of Steelwork and Outfitting are listed in the Bibliography in Section 4.

Photographs showing Typical Traditional Approaches have been taken over a period of time and therefore the methods shown in these photographs are not necessarily still being used by those yards. It is recognised that terms used in this document do not necessarily coincide with those used in all yards.

It must be noted that photographs included in this booklet are to show alternative methods. These alternative methods illustrate means of reducing noise, however, inclusion of illustrations does not detract in any way from the obligations of any Company to meet the requirements of the 1974 Health and Safety at Work etc. Act, in ensuring appropriate safety standards are met.

Furthermore the inclusion of the names or addresses of particular companies or organisations must not be taken to infer that they are the sole or preferred manufacturers or suppliers of equipment.