Hand injury from falling object during lifting operations
- Safety Flash
- Published on 16 April 2021
- Generated on 31 March 2026
- 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
-
IMCA SF 34/20
16 December 2020
-
-
IMCA SF 07/20
26 February 2020
-
-
IMCA SF 21/17
23 August 2017
-
-
IMCA SF 28/16
18 October 2016
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.