High potential near-miss: Failure in safety gate

  • Safety Flash
  • Published on 29 November 2016
  • Generated on 9 February 2025
  • IMCA SF 34/16
  • 1 minute read

Step Change in Safety has published the following safety alert regarding a near miss incident in which there was a potentially very serious failure of a safety gate at height.

What happened?

During a routine inspection, whilst stepping from a ladder onto a gantry, the crewman performing the inspection discovered that the safety gate bar was adrift from its hinge bracket.  The crewman narrowly avoided a fall.  He replaced the gate bar and immediately reported the event. There were no injuries.

Location of safety gate

What went wrong?

Investigation revealed that a retaining plate and bolt were missing due to the bolt working its way loose.

What actions were taken?

The bar was repaired immediately. Ongoing checks of all such safety gates took place to ensure they are functioning correctly and safely.  In the long term, a review was arranged of the maintenance strategy of the safety gates.

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