Abstract: Methods and apparatus access the boom (jib) of a crane, e.g. of the type commonly employed on offshore oil rigs. In place of the extensive scaffolding structure normally required to provide secure access to a crane boom (10) for maintenance and inspection, a carriage (11) is mounted on the boom either on a temporary or permanent basis. The carriage (11) includes a stable platform (22) or floor capable of supporting one or preferably two workers (23) to provide comfortable and safe access to the boom for e.g. a re-painting operation. The carriage (11) is supported on the boom via wheels (16) and is movable along the boom to provide access to the full length of the boom. The distal end may be of tapering section and it is preferred that the wheels (16) of the carriage are adjustably mounted to take account of the taper.

Abstract: The invention relates to the prevention of small leakages from transfer lines used for transferring liquids, e.g. oil, between ships, oil platforms and other structures or vessels, where the transfer lines extend over open water. In such situations, small amounts of oil can leak from e.g. a corroded joint, causing an environmental impact which may be a notifiable event. A pad may be fastened around a joint or other part of the transfer line which may be at risk of leakage or seepage, which is capable of soaking up the small volumes of liquid which are likely to be involved (a liter or so). The pad includes a sorbent zone and an outer impermeable layer which may have a transparent or translucent portion. The pad is preferably also equipped with a floatation element.