Slipped on stairs, broken finger
- Safety Flash
- Published on 17 November 2025
- Generated on 5 October 2026
- IMCA SF 21/25
- 2 minute read
A worker slipped while descending the staircase, and broke his finger as a result
What happened?
As he fell he reflexively used his right hand to support his body, and it was pinned under his weight, causing a fracture at the tip of his right ring finger.
What went well?
- Immediate first aid was provided on board (ice compression to reduce swelling).
- The worker was quickly taken to hospital for an X-ray and diagnosis, and further medical treatment, including surgery, was arranged the same day.
How could this outcome have been better?
- Had the worker held onto the hand rail properly in descending, whilst he might still have slipped, his fall could have been more easily arrested – and he wouldn’t now have a broken finger.
What do we learn?
- There’s a right way and a wrong way to go down a narrow staircase – particularly on a vessel which may be moving in a seaway.
- Keep three points of contact – don’t go down stairs without using the hand-rail.
- Familiarity breeds contempt, as they say: don’t underestimate the importance of safety observance in everyday matters like going down stairs, opening and closing heavy doors etc.
Members may wish to refer to:
Related Safety Flashes
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IMCA SF 16/23
1 July 2023
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IMCA SF 19/20
23 June 2020
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IMCA SF 21/21
30 July 2021
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