Retrieval of buoys
- Safety Flash
- Published on 1 November 2001
- Generated on 18 May 2026
- IMCA SF 13/01
- 1 minute read
In October 1995, IMCA published guidance R 1/95 (now referred to as IMCA R001 – Plastic spherical air-filled fishing buoys) referring to plastic spherical buoys, sometimes know as ‘Grimsby’ buoys or ‘Neukleons’.
These buoys are used on ROVs and other umbilicals. Safety Flash 09/01, issued this August, contained a reminder of the dangers inherent in the use of these buoys (Failure of plastic floatation buoy).
We have now received a report of another incident, where an umbilical buoy burst after being on deck for approximately three hours, during which time the buoy was full of seawater. This could have resulted in a serious injury.
The company reporting the incident has recommended that, if these buoys are in use, safety face guards and gloves are to be worn during their retrieval and that all buoys are to be inspected prior to use and rejected if they have any pin holes, small cracks, etc.
Related safety flashes
-
IMCA SF 09/01
2 August 2001
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.