What should not be used as tiedown points for securing cargo?

Tiedown points are critical for ensuring the safe and secure transport of cargo, especially in a shipboard environment where conditions can be turbulent. Proper tiedown points are designed to handle the weight and movement of secured items without the risk of failure.

Pipes or piping supports are not suitable as tiedown points because they are typically not engineered to withstand the dynamic loads that cargo may impose during transport. They may not be sufficiently robust to secure heavy items, and relying on them could lead to failure, compromising both the cargo and crew safety.

On the other hand, trenches, cables, and metal brackets are more appropriate for use as tiedown points. Trenches can provide containment and prevent movement, cables are designed to hold tension, and metal brackets are specifically built to support heavy loads, making them reliable for securing cargo effectively. Using the correct tiedown points is essential for maintaining safety onboard an aircraft carrier.