Near miss/positive: Crew exercised stop work on new gangway
- Safety Flash
- Published on 12 June 2020
- Generated on 3 September 2025
- IMCA SF 18/20
- 2 minute read
What happened?
A newly installed gangway was found inadequate and unsafe.
After the first transfer test on the gangway, the Captain observed several unsafe conditions – a trip hazard and a minor hydraulic leak – and he immediately exercised the Stop Work Authority.
On further inspection of the gangway some cracks were found on the welding seams, which also needed to be addressed before the gangway could be safely used.
The Captain ordered the quarantine of the gangway until the corrective actions that he and his crew had identified could be implemented.
cracked welding
highlighting a trip hazard
hydraulic oil leak
Positive findings
- The crew thoroughly inspected the gangway before use.
- The crew implemented the Stop Work Authority when the gangway was found to be unsafe.
- The gangway was quarantined until necessary repairs are completed and it is safe to use.
What actions were taken?
-
Remind crew that they are authorised and expected to exercise the Stop Work Policy without fear of reprisal if they are in doubt about any aspect of safety.
-
Conduct a prestart/installation inspection of all equipment, including equipment delivered by the client, to ensure that it is fit for purpose and safe to use.
- Any equipment found to be unsafe should be quarantined and communicated as unfit to use.
Members may wish to refer to SOLAS. REGII-1/3-9. Means Of Embarkation On And Disembarkation From Ships.
Related Safety Flashes
-
IMCA SF 27/18
14 December 2018
-
-
IMCA SF 03/10
28 May 2010
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.