Incorrectly Weighted Monkey’s Fist
- Safety Flash
- Published on 30 October 2018
- Generated on 26 January 2026
- IMCA SF 24/18
- 1 minute read
The Marine Safety Forum (MSF) have published Safety Alert 18-22 in which a ‘monkey’s fist’ had been thrown ashore during a mooring process.
A quayside boatman reported his concerns on this.
The images show the condition of the ‘monkey’s fist’ when it was thrown ashore, showing an area of protruding concrete. Upon inspection of the monkey’s fist, it was noted that it was heavier than normal. The object was cut open and the inside was found to be concrete, together with two layers of rope making up the outer layer. Should the ‘monkey’s fist’ have struck anyone upon thrown overboard, it had the potential to cause serious injury.
What actions were taken?
- The dangers and potential for injury was discussed with the vessel.
- A safety memo was created in order to share the learnings from this incident.
The safety alert can be viewed on the MSF’s website.
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.