Hand injury from falling object during lifting operations
- Safety Flash
- Published on 16 April 2021
- Generated on 19 November 2025
- IMCA SF 11/21
- 2 minute read
A lifting saddle broke, causing a hose to swing and hit a crewman, causing an injury to his hand
What happened?
The incident occurred at completion of cement pumping between a vessel and a rig.
During recovery of the cement hose, the saddle handle broke, and this caused the hose to swing and hit the AB, who at that moment was giving a signal to the crane operator.
He was not under the hose or the load, but was approximately 10 metres away.
Part of the hose was still in the water.
He was in the line of fire when the hose swung in his direction and he braced using his forearm, resulting in an injury.
What were the causes?
- The lifting saddle broke where the sling was incorrectly attached.
- The hose was lowered from the rig to the vessel deck only slinging the handle of the saddle and not passing it around the hose.
- The deck crew noticed this incorrect lifting arrangement but did not stop to correct or change it, and give the instruction to pick up.
Showing point where saddle broke and sling was connected
Diagram showing lifting arrangement used (incorrect)
Actions
- Stop Work Authority should be exercised if incorrect procedures and unsafe conditions are noticed, particularly during lifting operations.
- Thorough and regular inspection of all loose lifting equipment.
Members may wish to refer to:
- IMCA HSS019 Guidelines for lifting operations
- Short videos – Are YOU prepared to work safely?
Related Safety Flashes
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IMCA SF 34/20
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IMCA SF 07/20
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IMCA SF 21/17
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IMCA SF 28/16
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