Man overboard (MOB) rescue lifting slings parted
- Safety Flash
- Published on 3 March 2015
- Generated on 9 November 2025
- IMCA SF 03/15
- 2 minute read
A company has reported an incident in which there was a failure of lifting slings.
During an MOB drill in port the dummy was brought to the MOB using a Sula Bedriftsteneste (SB) Rescue Sling, the sling was used with the davit to bring the dummy on board.
The sling, under the weight of the dummy, snapped. Two other slings also parted during the exercises within a few hours at the same port.
typical SB rescue slings
typical SB rescue slings
Findings
Investigation noted the following:
- The slings were being used under ‘normal’ conditions and parted under the weight of the dummy. A copy of the manufacturer’s instructions were obtained from the supplier and it was found that the slings were close to or beyond their replacement date.
- The slings had been exposed to the elements and were probably near or beyond their replacement date. It is also possible that their integrity had been compromised when being cleaned.
- Supply dates need to be noted, test and replacement dates adhered to.
Actions
A safety alert was circulated with a requirement to check all slings. Replacement slings were ordered to replace any that are near their replacement dates.
Requirements for MOB drills were changed, such that it is now required that a proper dummy (to ‘load test’) is used every other drill.
Related safety flashes
-
IMCA SF 17/08
3 December 2008
-
IMCA SF 11/06
18 September 2006
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.