Snake on-board vessel
- Safety Flash
- Published on 12 November 2019
- Generated on 17 September 2025
- IMCA SF 26/19
- 1 minute read
During a safety walk round, it was observed that a snake was on top of the anchor winch while the vessel was at anchor near a port.
What were the causes?
Summer is the season where personnel can come into contact with snakes due to warm weather.
In ports in some parts of the world, it is a common occurrence for snakes to climb up chains and ropes.
Actions to be taken in case of snake bite
- Move the person beyond striking distance of the snake.
- Cover the wound with a loose sterile bandage.
- Remove any jewellery from the area that was bitten.
- Have the person lie down with wound below the heart.
- Be ready to describe the snake to emergency staff, pictures of the snake will be helpful.
- Contact DPA for shore medical assistance arrangements.
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