Skip to content

CTV crew member snagged on tag line and lifted off feet

What happened?

After a routine lift had been landed over the stern to a CTV foredeck, the CTV crew member gave the signal to raise the crane hook. While the hook was being raised, he stepped forward to guide the slings clear of snagging points on the CTV. A tag line attached to the slings snagged or became entangled on carabiners connected to his harness, and he was lifted about 0.5m clear of the deck. The lift was quickly stopped by the banksman, and the crewman lowered back to the deck unharmed within a few seconds.

Hook position on the worker’s harness before entanglement with tag line
Hook position on worker’s harness once the tag line got tangled

What went right and wrong?

  • Right? There was a quick response by the banksman and the crane operator;
  • Wrong? The crew member was in a hazardous place or position without appreciating the fact.

What are the lessons?

  • Think about where you’re standing on deck, particularly during mooring or lifting operations.
  • The CTV operator is reviewing procedures and discussing the incident with crews.

Members may wish to refer to:

Safety Event

Published: 22 May 2024
Download: IMCA SF 10/24

Relevant life-saving rules:
IMCA Safety Flashes
Submit a Report

IMCA Safety Flashes summarise key safety matters and incidents, allowing lessons to be more easily learnt for the benefit of all. The effectiveness of the IMCA Safety Flash system depends on Members sharing information and so avoiding repeat incidents. Please consider adding [email protected] to your internal distribution list for safety alerts or manually submitting information on incidents you consider may be relevant. All information is anonymised or sanitised, as appropriate.

IMCA’s store terms and conditions (https://www.imca-int.com/legal-notices/terms/) apply to all downloads from IMCA’s website, including this document.

IMCA makes every effort to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the data contained in the documents it publishes, but IMCA shall 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.