LTI – Crew member fell down open hatch
- Safety Flash
- Published on 24 July 2023
- Generated on 25 February 2026
- IMCA SF 18/23
- 2 minute read
During mooring, a crew person was attempting to secure the rope on the aft section of the vessel.
What happened?
While performing this task, the person stumbled and fell into a hatchway which had been left open. The fall caused the individual to suffer three broken ribs, which led to a Lost Time Injury (LTI).
The RIGHT-HAND image is a RECONSTRUCTION!
What went wrong?
- Lack of communication: The engineer had failed to communicate the fact that the hatch was open and unprotected. No toolbox meeting had taken place to facilitate communication among crew members.
- There were no barriers nor warning signs.
- Inadequate hazard identification and risk management: No-one spotted this…crew members failed to identify and manage the risk. A toolbox meeting could have helped address this issue.
- Lack of toolbox meeting: Without a toolbox meeting, the crew couldn’t discuss hazards, precautions, and communication strategies. Toolbox meetings should be considered essential for promoting safety awareness.
What can be done
- Discuss requirements for using barriers and warning signs when hazards are present, such as open hatches or other potential risks. Make sure signage and equipment are readily available on board to facilitate these safety measures.
- Ensure toolbox meetings are held before starting work, and that they focus on task-specific hazards, safety measures, and crew member responsibilities. Encourage open communication and active participation from everyone involved.
Related Safety Flashes
-
IMCA SF 27/16
12 October 2016
-
IMCA SF 02/20
10 January 2020
-
-
IMCA SF 20/15
3 December 2015
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.