Abstract:
The KM. Dharma Kencana VII is a Roll-On/Roll-Off (RORO) passenger and vehicle
ferry operated by PT. Dharma Lautan Utama, serving inter-island routes in Indonesia.
During operations, the safety of loaded vehicles is a critical issue, especially concerning
the lashing process on the cardeck. This study aims to identify and optimize the vehicle
lashing process to enhance the ship’s operational safety. A descriptive qualitative
research method was used, applying a case study approach based on the author’s direct
experience during a sea practice aboard the vessel. Data were collected through
observation, documentation, and questionnaires distributed to ship crew members.
The findings revealed two major issues: inadequate supervision by watch officers and
crew during the lashing process, and poor maintenance of lashing equipment such as
corroded snatch blocks and damaged wires. SWOT, IFAS, and EFAS analyses were
employed to determine optimal strategies, resulting in proposed solutions including
increased number of deck watch crew, crew training on proper lashing standards, and
regular maintenance of lashing tools. These strategies are expected to minimize risks such as vehicle shifting, tipping, or falling during voyages and to improve the overall safety of the vessel.
