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Retrieval of buoys
In October 1995, IMCA published guidance R 1/95 (now referred to as IMCA R 001 – Plastic spherical air-filled fishing buoys) referring to plastic spherical buoys, sometimes know as ‘Grimsby’ buoys or ‘Neukleons’. These buoys are used on ROVs and other umbilicals. Safety Flash 09/01, issued this August, contained a reminder of the dangers inherent in the use of these buoys (Failure of plastic floatation buoy).
We have now received a report of another incident, where an umbilical buoy burst after being on deck for approximately three hours, during which time the buoy was full of seawater. This could have resulted in a serious injury.
The company reporting the incident has recommended that, if these buoys are in use, safety face guards and gloves are to be worn during their retrieval and that all buoys are to be inspected prior to use and rejected if they have any pin holes, small cracks, etc.
Safety Event
Published: 1 November 2001
Download: 
IMCA SF 13/01
IMCA Safety Flashes
Submit a Report
IMCA Safety Flashes summarise key safety matters and incidents, allowing lessons to be more easily learnt for the benefit of all. The effectiveness of the IMCA Safety Flash system depends on Members sharing information and so avoiding repeat incidents. Please consider adding [email protected] to your internal distribution list for safety alerts or manually submitting information on incidents you consider may be relevant. All information is anonymised or sanitised, as appropriate.
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IMCA makes every effort to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the data contained in the documents it publishes, but IMCA shall not be liable for any guidance and/or recommendation and/or statement herein contained. The information contained in this document does not fulfil or replace any individual’s or Member's legal, regulatory or other duties or obligations in respect of their operations. Individuals and Members remain solely responsible for the safe, lawful and proper conduct of their operations.