Fatality: Fall from suspended work platform
- Safety Flash
- Published on 2 July 2003
- Generated on 21 January 2026
- IMCA SF 07/03
- 1 minute read
A man was working on the lower level of a suspended modular scaffold. He fell from the scaffold through a gap between two modular platform sections.
What happened?
The plywood used to bridge the gap between the two platforms was found on the floor. He fell from approximately 18 metres, sustaining severe injuries. He was taken to hospital, but died from his injuries.
The subsequent investigation noted the following contributory factors:
- The supervisor and his team had not received training concerning scaffolding procedures.
- The supervisor thought the scaffolding was safe merely because it was set up, so he authorised the person involved to go to the work location to complete previous day’s activity.
- There was a lack of communication between the sub-contractor setting up the scaffolds and the sub-contractor using the scaffolds.
- The victim had not recognised a 90° tube across the platform walkway as a barrier.
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.