Mooring: Port operator fined after worker injured by capstan
- Safety Flash
- Published on 31 March 2016
- Generated on 8 January 2026
- IMCA SF 07/16
- 2 minute read
The HSE has published the following report regarding an injury to a worker during mooring operations for an ocean-going vessel.
What happened?
The incident happened when a three-man team were securing a vessel’s heavy mooring ropes to land in a maritime terminal. One worker suffered a serious injury after his arm became wrapped around a powered capstan.
Why did it happen? What were the causes?
Investigation found that the port operator had failed to suitably identify and control risk associated with the use of powered capstans at the port. Consequently, there was no safe system of work. Arrangements for instruction, training and supervision of workers using this equipment were found to be inadequate, as were those for audit and monitoring of safety.
Additionally and importantly, the port operator had failed to suitably heed warnings raised by its workers before the incident.
There is a good deal of training material around regarding mooring incidents. members may wish to refer to the following:
- IMCA HSS029, M214 – Mooring practice safety guidance for offshore vessels when alongside in ports and harbours
- IMCA Promoting Safety Poster – Mooring
- IMCA Promoting Safety Video – Mooring incidents
Related Safety Flashes
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IMCA SF 04/09
2 April 2009
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