Non-fatal man overboard: worker fell from height into the sea
- Safety Flash
- Published on 29 August 2024
- Generated on 14 September 2025
- IMCA SF 17/24
- 2 minute read
A worker fell 3 m from a new jacket into the sea.
What happened?
The worker was uninjured and successfully recovered without harm. The incident occurred during the installation of a new jacket. During the operations, a worker accessed an area on the jacket which did not have any grating or scaffolding. Whilst exposed to the hazard (Working at height) but trying to secure himself to the guide rope, the worker fell from the jacket into the water from a height of almost 3m.
Showing location from which worker fell
What went wrong?
- The minimum requirements set out by the end client in their permit to work (temporary platform and handrails) were not met.
- The team did not stop the job, but tried to finish it, despite the missing required temporary platform and handrails.
- Some of the documentation for the job – task risk assessment, method statement etc – did not reflect the situation and needed updating.
Actions taken
- Following a full safety stand down and discussion by all involved:
- The client was asked to install temporary platform and handrails as per the original requirement.
- The TRA and method statement were updated, discussed and agreed with all parties.
Related Safety Flashes
-
IMCA SF 13/24
2 July 2024
-
IMCA SF 33/20
6 December 2020
-
-
IMCA SF 19/20
23 June 2020
-
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.