Mooring: Port operator fined after worker injured by capstan
- Safety Flash
- Published on 31 March 2016
- Generated on 15 February 2025
- IMCA SF 07/16
- 1 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.
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.