Inadequate handling and storage of potentially hazardous substances
- Safety Flash
- Published on 31 January 2018
- Generated on 22 October 2025
- IMCA SF 03/18
- 1 minute read
Two drums with unknown chemicals were observed, floating in the sea.
What happened?
The crew retrieved these drums onto the vessel, but they were not stored safely.
What went wrong? What were the causes?
The vessel crew retrieved the drums on board without considering the risks, i.e. they were not aware of the type of product, or the condition of the plastic drums. The drums were placed without drip trays in close vicinity to a deck area commonly accessed by the crew, potentially exposing personnel to unknown risks.
Shore side management were not informed about the collected chemicals.
Lessons learnt
- A risk assessment should be carried out before handling chemicals or unknown substances potentially hazardous to health.
- Vessels should report immediately if unidentified floating objects are observed and retrieved onboard, so that adequate collection and destination can be arranged.
Related Safety Flashes
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IMCA SF 29/17
15 November 2017
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IMCA SF 16/17
27 June 2017
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IMCA SF 03/05
1 March 2005
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