Lightning strike
- Safety Flash
- Published on 1 December 2004
- Generated on 20 June 2025
- IMCA SF 10/04
- 2 minute read
A Member has reported an incident which occurred while a yard rigger was preparing to lift some pipes from ground level.
What happened?
A sudden lightning strike struck the shore crane’s jib and a flash of lightning found its way onto the shackle, missing the rigger by a few inches. The rigger was holding the nylon web sling at the time. He was not hurt.
It was observed afterwards that there was a burn mark on the web sling. It was believed that most of the lightning’s energy had been transferred to ground through ‘earth’, but apparently some of this energy had gone through the crane sling and onto the shackle.
Fortunately, no injury was sustained and there was no fire. However, it was observed afterwards that there were minor burn marks on the lifting belt the rigger (yellow hat) had been using (see pictures below).
Web sling, with burn mark circled
The company involved has noted the following indicators of potential lightning in work areas:
- dark clouds forming overhead and/or inclement weather conditions.
- thunder or ‘rumbling’ sound as the rain approaches from a distance.
- lightning flashes in the distance as rain approaches work areas.
The company has noted the following precautions to be taken in the event of these specific potential lightning conditions:
- Avoid standing next to tall structures or working at height.
- Do not stay in open areas.
- Do not use mobile telephones in open areas.
- Take shelter in covered areas or buildings.
- Do not use mobile or berth cranes due to the height of crane booms.
Members should consider the potential risk such weather can pose and the ways in which the risks can be minimised.
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.