🔍 Key Concepts

• Mooring line behavior under load (stretch, bedding-in, hidden weaknesses) • Difference between theoretical design tensions and real-world performance of equipment • Purpose of a preload or proof load test on critical gear

💭 Think About

• When you first load a new or recently adjusted mooring system, what could happen to the lines, shackles, and winches that might not show up on paper calculations? • If the weather later worsens and your tensions rise toward the design limit, what would you want to already know about your system’s condition? • Which option best describes a purpose that directly improves your confidence in the mooring system’s ability to safely carry the calculated loads?

✅ Before You Answer

• Verify which option focuses on confirming the integrity and performance of the whole mooring system, not just one part or the seabed. • Check which choice would still be important even if the anchor line were already fairly straight and bottom conditions were already known. • Ask: Which answer most closely matches the idea of a proof test or systems check under controlled conditions before heavy weather arrives?