Crewman got cement dust in his eyes
- Safety Flash
- Published on 21 September 2017
- Generated on 23 January 2026
- IMCA SF 23/17
- 2 minute read
During the discharging of a cement tank on board a vessel, a crewman was standing in the path of a blow back of cement dust, and the dust got in his eyes.
What happened?
Crew were using a portable hose to investigate why the discharge line inside the tank was blocked. The hose was being held by deckhands who were assisting in the operation.
There was a back pressure in the hose which resulted in the cement in the line and in the tank to blow back at considerable pressure. A deck hand who was standing in the vicinity was caught unawares and got cement dust in his eyes.
After washing out his eyes, the deck hand was unharmed.
What went wrong? What were the causes?
- The crew were not following the correct procedures for this work.
- The crew were not wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
What lessons were learnt? What actions were taken?
Proper precautions should be taken with dry bulk cargo and dusts of all kinds.
Members may wish to consult “Carrying solid bulk cargoes safely” guidance for crews based on the International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes Code. This can be found on the Nautical Institute website.
Related safety flashes
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IMCA SF 09/03
1 August 2003
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