Near miss: Worker in dockyard almost struck by a ‘cherry picker’ crane

  • Safety Flash
  • Published on 7 November 2017
  • Generated on 18 February 2025
  • IMCA SF 28/17
  • 1 minute read

A Member reports a near miss incident in which a worker was almost hit by a ‘cherry picker’ mobile crane. 

What happened?

Whilst walking to a dry dock, a shipyard visitor was almost struck by the vehicle when it suddenly reversed driving direction.

A member reports a near miss incident in which a worker was almost hit by a ‘cherry picker’ mobile crane.
Whilst walking to a dry dock, a shipyard visitor was almost struck by the vehicle when it suddenly reversed driving direction.

What went wrong?

Several safeguards were not implemented causing a chain of errors that resulted in a hazardous occurrence:

  • The cherry picker operator did not look first before reversing.

  • There was inadequate traffic management or separation zones: the pedestrian walkways were not clearly visible as the paint markings had faded away.

  • The traffic separation scheme for equipment and pedestrians had been blocked off with the storage of materials.

Our member notes that in some locations, influencing the workplace safety culture of the shipyard can be a significant challenge. Members may wish to refer to IMCA HSS032 – Guidance on safety in shipyards.

Lessons learnt / Actions taken

  • Further toolbox talks for all equipment operators to address safe work practices.

  • All materials blocking the pedestrian walkway were removed.

  • Traffic separation scheme marking were refreshed with a new coat of paint.

Latest Safety Flashes:

Saturation diver exposed to chemicals from pipeline

During pigging and decommissioning operations, a saturation diver was exposed to the contents of a pipeline.

Read more
MAIB: Parted mooring rope leads to fatality

A deck officer was killed during mooring operations when a mooring rope parted and struck him on the head.

Read more
Confined space entry hot work fatality

An incident was brought to IMCA’s attention relating to a confined space entry hot work fatality in a shipyard.

Read more
MAIB: Vessel cook injured by spillage of burning cooking oil

Cook receives burns from oil spill due to faulty thermostat. 

Read more
MAIB: Step-ladder failure (LTI)

A crew member was working while stood on the top step of a small folding stepladder when the step gave way.

Read more

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.