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Lock operation
#3 : bits and pieces
When operating a windlass to open the sluices, first unlock the windlass (if locked - not all are) with the lock key and place the correct-sized square opening of the handle on the spindle. If lifting the sluice gates up, first engage the pawl on the ratchet teeth if not already in place (if there is a pawl - it's a sort of hooked piece of metal which comes over the ratchet gear and slips into each successive tooth as the mechanism lifts, preventing it from falling back accidentally.) Wind slowly and steadily to the height directed by the skipper. If there is a pawl fitted you can relax until the next stage of lifting is required; if there is no pawl, you will have to hang on to the handle to prevent the gears running backwards. NEVER leave the handle on the windlass without holding onto it : if anything goes wrong it could fly off and cause serious injury, or end up in the lock pit .... then how will you carry on?
