When opening an individual-dog watertight door, which side should be undogged first?

For opening an individual-dog watertight door, the hinge side should be undogged first. This procedure is essential for ensuring the proper operation and integrity of the watertight seal. By undogging the hinge side first, you create an effective means of distributing the stresses and strains that occur when the door is opened. This helps prevent any potential misalignment or damage that could compromise the watertightness of the door.

When undogging the latch side first, there’s a risk that the door could pivot or warp, especially if there are any residual water pressures against it or if it’s out of alignment. Moreover, beginning with the hinge side ensures that the door remains stable while the latch side is being undogged, reducing the chances of accidental opening or failure of the seals during the process. Thus, this sequence is critical in maintaining safety and functionality.