One of the first things taught to volunteers is line handling – lines are attached to the CTD to stabilize it during deployment and recovery.  A rolling ship can cause it to swing dangerously when the winch lifts the 800lbs (empty)/1500lbs (full) CTD package. 

Important things to remember:

1. Wrap the line around the cleat, careful not to bind on itself when the CTD moves in or outboard.

 2. Keep your hands at least 12 inches (30cm) from the cleat as the line slips out.

3. Always keep your line tight by pulling out the slack but do not inhibit the CTD’s movement on or off the ship.  A good indicator is the winch wire – if it is angled towards your cleat then it may be too tight.  When the ship rolls, quickly take up the slack to prevent the CTD from swinging but let line out as the tension increases.

4.  The CTD must always be secured to the deck or cleat.  If the CTD is untied from the deck-eyes then the taglines must be secured by you or the cleat.  Loop the line around the cleat then under itself when waiting to deploy or while securing the CTD to the deck eyes.

 5.  Be sure to watch for line tangles and do not stand inside a loop.

Never put yourself between the CTD and an immovable object such as the bulkhead.
Watch your toes when the CTD lands – 1500lbs will crush them.