High potential incident: gantry hoist failure
- Safety Flash
- Published on 6 July 2020
- Generated on 22 October 2025
- IMCA SF 20/20
- 2 minute read
What happened?
An electrically powered gantry hoist failed whilst under load dropping cargo and lifting equipment to deck. The incident occurred during a lift of 500 kg of palletised provisions onto the vessel.
The failure resulted in the provisions falling onto the deck. The gantry hoist housing included a chain box containing approximately 10 m of 10 mm chain weighing approximately 19 kg which dropped 4 m (12 ft) onto the deck.
There were no injuries. However, there was potential for serious or fatal injury.
What were the causes? What went wrong?
The hoist motor / gearbox housing securing bolts failed due to excessive and previously unidentified internal corrosion.
What actions were taken?
Review and improvement of:
- Procurement process to emphasise the importance of ensuring that equipment is selected by a competent person, is suitable for its intended purpose and operating environment.
- Mechanical lifting equipment procedure modified to further emphasise the importance of complying with the procurement process and the manufacture’s installation, use and maintenance requirements.
- Enhanced arrangements for the management and control of equipment maintenance and inspection records and general record keeping.
Members may wish to refer to
- IMCA HSS019 Guidelines for lifting operations
- Two short “Are you prepared to work safely?” videos: Lifting operations, Lifting equipment
Related Safety Flashes
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IMCA SF 12/20
31 March 2020
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IMCA SF 16/08
30 October 2008
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