Near-miss: Snagged lifting bridle
- Safety Flash
- Published on 15 June 2017
- Generated on 15 December 2025
- IMCA SF 15/17
- 2 minute read
The MSF has published Safety Alert 17-03 in which lifting rigging got snagged on an open top mini basket type unit.
What happened?
The incident occurred on a platform supply vessel (PSV) alongside an installation in calm weather. Whilst discharging an open top mini basket type unit, one leg of the basket’s lifting bridle snagged on the bottom corner of the unit, almost causing it to tip over.
The vessel’s deck crew immediately informed the installation crane operator when they noticed the snagged bridle, and with some careful manoeuvring the crane operator managed to free the bridle from under the corner of the unit. The basket was then lifted to the installation as normal.
MSF notes: The vessel deck crew were commended for not rushing towards the snagged bridle to free it, as they could have placed themselves in a potentially hazardous situation.
What were the actions?
- Container manufacturers to consider re-engineering units to eliminate/reduce snagging hazards.
- The length of the unit lifting bridle will be measured to ascertain if it was too long, leading to this incident.
- The installation crane operator to be informed about any lifts with a potential to snag.
All parties are reminded that good communications between the vessel and the installation crane are essential for safe lifting operations.
Further information and safe operating practices can be found in “Best Practice for the Safe Packing & Handling of Cargo to & from Offshore Locations” available at onshoreoffshorecargo.com and the IMCA-related resources.
Further information and safe operating practices can be found in:
- IMCA D060, HSS019, M187, LR006 – Guidelines for lifting operations
Related safety flashes
-
IMCA SF 22/16
1 September 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.