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Near-miss during lifting operations

We have received reports of a near-miss wherein a worker was nearly caught between a load and a fixed structure.

The immediate cause of the near-miss was crane creep, which was compensated for automatically with an upward movement of the load, almost trapping the worker on the deck.

Underlying causes noted were:

  • insufficient management engagement;
  • responsibility for operation and maintenance of crane not being properly understood;
  • inadequate knowledge of crane operational ‘routine’s and condition;
  • maintenance ‘routine’s not being specific enough.

The recommended actions included:

  • ensuring that responsibility and reporting ‘routine’s in connection with crane operation and maintenance are clearly understood by all involved;
  • ensuring appropriate competence and training for all personnel with crane functions;
  • checking and updating of maintenance ‘routine’s, with daily follow-up for all cranes;
  • replacement of the existing ‘creep compensator’
  • review of the company’s crane manuals and training material to ensure that they are appropriate and up-to-date.

Safety Event

Published: 30 November 2005
Download: IMCA SF 11/05

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