Gangway damaged when lifting line parted
- Safety Flash
- Published on 31 January 2018
- Generated on 15 February 2026
- IMCA SF 03/18
- 2 minute read
A lifting line failed whilst vessel crew were lifting the gangway to stow it in position on departure from an anchorage.
What happened?
The gangway was hoisted to a position 20-30 cm below the final position, when suddenly the wire parted making the gangway pivot at the top platform hinge, and it fell freely to water level. Due to this free fall and sudden jerking the gangway was severely damaged – multiple cracks, rendering it unusable. It had to be replaced. There were no injuries.
What went wrong? What were the causes?
Our member noted the following:
- The gangway hoisting mechanism was an electric motor with a remote control. Both were working well.
The immediate cause was found to be that the gangway lifting wire had deteriorated and was not in good condition. A causal factor was inadequate maintenance – there was inadequate and improper greasing. The wires were dry on the inside resulting in the wire deteriorating faster.
The root causes were determined to be
- The risk of this wire failing on this recurring task was seen as tolerable;
- There was also no proper supervision or verification of the maintenance by the supervisor.
What actions were taken?
- Ensure required checks and maintenance of the gangway are carried out;
- Monitor overall condition of the gangway including the wire when picking up and lowering, and report any defects noted immediately;
- Ensure crew are aware of how to effectively grease lifting wires;
- Supervise and verify the greasing of wires to ensure this is done correctly.
Related Safety Flashes
-
IMCA SF 21/15
7 December 2015
-
IMCA SF 11/15
10 August 2015
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.