NOPSEMA: Increase in dropped object events
- Safety Flash
- Published on 18 June 2013
- Generated on 14 June 2025
- IMCA SF 09/13
- 2 minute read
The Australian National Offshore Petroleum Safety and Environmental Management Authority (NOPSEMA) has identified a concerning increase in dropped object events on mobile offshore drilling units (MODUs) in the first quarter of 2013.
Nine dropped object notifications have been received by the authority in the first quarter of 2013.
The weights and heights of the dropped objects ranged from 2 to 2300 kg and from less than 1 metre to 43 metres. The dropped objects were sections of drill pipe and casing, a spool of wire rope, a navigation light fitting, slip inserts, a hose bundle, an equipment handle and a camera located in the derrick. Three members of the workforce were injured in three separate dropped object events. Two workers each suffered a crush injury to the foot requiring a medical evacuation from the facility, while another worker required first aid treatment for a leg injury.
In another case, a member of the workforce was standing only 2 metres from where a 28 kilogram object landed having dropped from a height of 19 metres.
Analysis using the industry supported DROPS Calculator indicates that six of these dropped object events could have resulted in a fatality.
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.