Snake on-board vessel
- Safety Flash
- Published on 12 November 2019
- Generated on 26 August 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.
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.