Positive findings and good practices

  • Safety Flash
  • Published on 29 April 2025
  • Generated on 2 April 2026
  • IMCA SF 08/25
  • 2 minute read

A member highlights some examples of positive findings and good practices on board some of their vessels.

What went right?

Members are encouraged to share positive findings with IMCA and we will pass them on anonymously in the usual way. 

Excellent Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) practices

Lockout/tagout refers to specific practices and procedures used to safeguard employees from the unexpected energization or start-up of machinery and equipment, or the release of hazardous energy during service or maintenance activities.

Do you KNOW for SURE that the machinery you’re about to work on is secured and is locked out? Could it start rotating or moving? Could it still be live? Could your lockout/tagout practices be improved?

Clear and consistent safety markings on deck

Clear and consistent marking at mooring stations greatly improves crew awareness and operational safety during berthing operations. The entire mooring deck should be considered as a potential snap-back zone and clear visible signage should be displayed to warn crew and potential visitors.

Our member also recommended that appropriate cautionary signage be displayed close to the mooring deck entrance highlighting the potential dangers ahead.

A tidy engine room is a safe engine room

A high standard of housekeeping in the engine room promotes a safer working environment by minimizing slip, trip, and fire hazards. It reflects professionalism, pride in the job, and enhances operational efficiency. Clean, well-organized spaces also make inspections and maintenance faster and more effective. 

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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.

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