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MSF: person injured falling between decks

The Marine Safety Forum (MSF) has published Safety Alert 23-06 relating to someone who fell 2m between decks on an AHTS (Anchor handling vessel) alongside in port.

What happened

The injured person fell approximately 2m from A-deck to the port chain chute on the main deck. The injured person was conscious but disoriented and had a small cut to the head. First aid was given and the person was transferred to hospital. The injured person suffered one broken vertebrae, several broken ribs, a fractured wrist, a cut to the back of the head and internal bruising to the kidneys.

Findings

Inspection of A-deck found that the safety chain was not in place. Safety chain could not be confirmed to be in place as it was found in the down position with a link missing. A carabiner was still in place at one end and a welded link in place on the other. Missing link on welded end could not be located.

The MSF report also notes the following:

  • The injured person – an experienced (30 years offshore) client’s representative – was fully rested prior to the Incident and was not distracted at the time;
  • The injured person was off duty at the time and had proceeded to the winch hanger to check on activity on deck and have a cigarette, use his mobile phone, and return to his cabin;
  • The grating on A-deck has a raised edge approximately 76mm high that is highlighted with yellow paint. The injured person may have tripped over it. As he was “off shift” no PPE was being worn;
  • It could not be determined if the safety chain at the edge of the deck grating was actually in place prior to the incident.
‘A’ deck showing the area around the gypsy and grating walkway including different levels highlighted by yellow paint. The yellow arrow denotes the space in which the IP fell between winch gypsy and grating.
Main deck showing chute where IP landed from the grating above (height of approximately 2m). Red arrow depicts the drop zone and area where IP landed.

Actions

  • Improved barriers to be installed around port and starboard gypsies;
  • Update Shipboard/Contractor Familiarisations and Inductions to include identification of restricted and working areas;
  • Replace all chain barriers with gates or solid railings. All restricted/working areas to be identified and signage posted. Temporary chain barriers and signage were put in place as a short term measure until solid hand rails could be fabricated and fitted;
  • Install barriers and signage to clearly identify working areas.

Members may wish to refer to:

Safety Event

Published: 3 August 2023
Download: IMCA SF 19/23

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