Emergency communications system incident
- Safety Flash
- Published on 1 April 2000
- Generated on 4 July 2025
- IMCA SF 02/00
- 1 minute read
An incident occurred onboard a Member’s vessel where, as a result of flooding of the external battery pack for the through water communications, electronics in the communications unit were damaged.
What happened?
This caused smoke to enter the bell. As a result the divers had to use their BIBS and masks.
The manufacturer, on investigation of the incident, has found that the pressure relief screw had been incorrectly fitted after the pack had been charged.
All customers have been made aware of the problem and provided with relevant information to modify the supplied unit. To avoid a reoccurrence of the incident the manufacturer has modified its manufacturing procedures and updated its manuals, as well as supplying a field service bulletin.
IMCA Safety Flashes summarise key safety matters and incidents, allowing lessons to be more easily learnt for the benefit of the entire offshore industry.
The effectiveness of the IMCA Safety Flash system depends on the industry sharing information and so avoiding repeat incidents. Incidents are classified according to IOGP's Life Saving Rules.
All information is anonymised or sanitised, as appropriate, and warnings for graphic content included where possible.
IMCA makes every effort to ensure both the accuracy and reliability of the information shared, but is 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.
Share your safety incidents with IMCA online. Sign-up to receive Safety Flashes straight to your email.