What are tricing pendants used for?

Tricing pendants are vital in the operation and handling of lifeboats, specifically designed to secure the lifeboat alongside the embarkation deck. They provide a means to hold the lifeboat in a fixed position while crew members and passengers are boarding or disembarking. This stability is crucial in preventing accidents and ensuring the safety of those entering or leaving the lifeboat.

When the lifeboat is positioned at the embarkation deck, tricing pendants are adjusted to keep the boat steady, allowing for safe handling during this critical phase of lifeboat operations. This function significantly enhances safety aboard, particularly in rough seas or adverse weather conditions where the lifeboat could be subject to movement.

Other choices do not accurately describe the purpose of tricing pendants. For instance, securing a lifeboat at the rudder, connecting it to a crane, or attaching it to the ship's hull do not involve the lifeboat's operation alongside the embarkation deck where the primary function of tricing pendants comes into play.