With the start of the recreational season, thousands of recreational sailors take to the water again, increasing traffic on waterways and in locks. An important point of attention in locks is proper mooring and turning off the propeller.
This is always mandatory, but now that the recreational season is beginning, extra vigilance is required. Especially in locks where commercial and recreational vessels often meet.
To ensure safe and smooth passage in locks, Rijkswaterstaat and Koninklijke Binnenvaart Nederland (KBN) ask barge operators to always turn off their propeller once they are moored. A running propeller causes strong currents, can damage the lock structure, and makes it extra difficult for recreational users to pass through the lock safely.
Strong Currents and Damage to Locks
When a ship is moored in a lock and the propeller continues to spin, a strong current is created. This can make it difficult for smaller vessels to moor or even cause them to drift off course. In some situations, this can also extend the lock time, causing unnecessary delays for all users and potentially affecting the condition of the lock.
Additionally, the current can cause damage to the lock itself, such as damaging the bottom protection, lock walls, and the rail track at a lock gate, leading to overloading of the moving mechanisms. Especially with older locks and due to the higher engine power of larger ships, this can lead to faster wear and defects.
Some of the locks and waterworks are being renovated or require maintenance. We are working hard to address this. Careful use of the infrastructure helps prevent additional damage and minimizes inconvenience for both commercial and recreational shipping.
One Propeller Can Disrupt the Entire Lock
Compare it to a line of cars waiting at a traffic light: everyone is stationary, but one car suddenly starts to roll or accelerate. The rest must react, creating unnecessary commotion and dangerous situations.
In a lock, it works the same way: one spinning propeller sets the water in motion and causes other boats to lose balance. Therefore, in the Netherlands, the rule is: once you are moored in a lock, the propeller must be turned off.
Importance of Sailing Together
Rijkswaterstaat: ‘Barge operators are experienced professionals, yet we regularly see propellers continuing to spin in locks. It often happens unconsciously, but the effect is immediately noticeable: lines become tense, ships start to move, and this can lead to dangerous situations. Moreover, it can cause damage to the lock. A simple action, turning off the propeller and being considerate of each other, prevents all this.’
Royal Dutch Barge Association: ‘It is a small action for barge operators to turn off the propeller, but it can make a huge difference in safety and efficiency of lock times. This ultimately benefits the barge operators themselves as well.’
‘Now that the recreational season is upon us, it is even more important to sail together. Recreational and commercial shipping must keep a better eye on each other and be considerate. Only then can we ensure smooth, safe passage for everyone.’
More Information on Safe Sailing
Would you like to know more about safe sailing and the main lock rules? Visit the website Varen Doe Je Samen .