Dropped object: crane floodlight
- Safety Flash
- Published on 10 September 2018
- Generated on 17 September 2025
- IMCA SF 20/18
- 1 minute read
A floodlight fell from its position on the knuckle boom of the vessel’s crane.
What happened?
The floodlight arrangement was supported on a stainless steel bracket, comprising a bar and attachment plate that is bolted to the knuckle boom head. This arrangement allowed the floodlight to swivel and illuminate the load area.
What went wrong? What were the causes?
The weld between the bar and the attachment plate failed due to the poor quality of the weld, which upon inspection revealed undercut, poor penetration and overdressing, resulting in a minimal fusion area which was insufficient to withstand vibration and exposure in the marine environment.
The underlying causes were found to be:
- Inadequate engineering.
- Inadequate QC/monitoring of design and build at point of fabrication (crane manufacturer).
What actions were taken?
The floodlight was restored to its original position, with a security chain installed as a retrofit attachment.
Related Safety Flashes
-
IMCA SF 04/18
20 February 2018
-
-
IMCA SF 09/14
16 June 2014
-
IMCA SF 04/11
19 April 2011
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.