Safety Flash 9/26
Click here to download the IMCA Safety Flash 9/26.
MSF: Fast Rescue craft (FRC) washed overboard and lost at sea
A vessel was proceeding from port to an offshore location when the port side Fast Rescue Craft (FRC) was washed overboard. An unexpected (rogue) wave impacted the port side FRC stowage compartment, which was swamped from abeam. The boat was immediately seen by the bridge watch to be in the water floating in a capsized condition. Video footage shows that the rogue wave reached up to and beneath the port side bridge wing. The boat could not be recovered at that time.
Click here for more info!
Shifting cargo and deck spill during heavy weather
While transiting to an offshore field in heavy weather conditions (winds 35-39 kts, swell 4-6m), the vessel experienced heavy rolling and pitching. Although deck cargo was reported as secured, a sodium chloride brine storage tank shifted approximately 0.5m. The tank struck the crash rail, causing the manifold valve to fail and resulting in a limited brine spill onto the main deck. The crew took immediate action to stop the leak, re-secured all deck cargo, and notified the relevant authorities. Limited environmental impact was observed.
Click here for more info!
Machinery damaged through improper maintenance technique
Further investigation revealed that purifier bowl components had been swapped with parts from the lube oil purifier, with different serial numbers. After reinstalling genuine parts, the purifier showed excessive current and high vibration. Inspection confirmed mechanical damage to the bowl caused by improper dismantling.
Click here for more info!
High Potential Near Miss: Dropped object due to contact with crane sheave
During crane operations on a vessel operating in deep water, the whip line was retrieved from approximately 2,200 meters depth to lift and deploy a hang-off sling over the vessel’s side. While lifting the sling from the deck, a Dynamic Positioning (DP) beacon (a subsea positioning aid mounted on the crane wire just above the hook socket) came into contact with the sheave protection bars. This resulted in the beacon and its holder assembly detaching and falling to the deck below.
Click here for more info!
Worker suffered crush injury while handling unstable steel plates
A worker was using their left hand to hold a number of steel plates in a vertical (balanced) position. One of the plates suddenly toppled over to the side trapping their left hand and wrist between a frame and an emergency stop pedestal. The worker suffered crush injuries resulting in multiple fractures to the hand, wrist and fingers requiring surgery. Also, the falling plate caught the worker on the left side, causing a superficial laceration to the abdomen.
Click here for more info!