Skip to content

Dropped object near-miss: wind sensor

A member has reported an incident in which part of a plastic fixed unit wind sensor weighing 0.8kg dropped 10m to the top of the bridge roof. The wind sensor fell from the top of the aerial deck to the top of the bridge deck. At the time of the incident there were no works taking place on the ROV deck or on the roof of the bridge; there were no injuries. Weather conditions at the time were gusting southerly winds at 11m/s or 21.3 Knots, and the vessel was heading into the wind.

Use of the ‘DROPS calculator’ for this dropped object showed that the potential had it actually hit a person was for a major LTI.

Our member took the following steps:

  • Ensured that all vessel departments have a robust DROPPED Objects inspection regime in place;
  • Ensure all equipment at height is in a planned preventative maintenance program;
  • Check fixed unit equipment to ensure that integral fixings are in place (if possible check securing means).
Figure 1 -Showing where wind sensor fell, from the top of the aerial deck to the top of the bridge deck
Figure 1 -Showing where wind sensor fell, from the top of the aerial deck to the top of the bridge deck
Figure 2 -showing wind sensor in situ without its lid
Figure 2 -showing wind sensor in situ without its lid
Figure 3 -Showing the lid of the wind sensor (weight 0.8kg)
Figure 3 -Showing the lid of the wind sensor (weight 0.8kg)

Members’ attention is drawn to the following IMCA material which may be of assistance:

Safety Event

Published: 4 September 2013
Download: IMCA SF 13/13

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.