(MARS 201863) In this MARS Report, a crane hook got caught on the crotch strap of an AB’s lifejacket taking the AB for a ride above the deck and out over the side of the vessel.
As edited from Marine Safety Forum Safety Alert 18-07.
A bulk hose was being transferred between a production platform and a platform supply vessel (PSV). The platform crane landed the hose on the PSV’s deck and one of the ABs approached to release the hook from the lifting sling.
As the AB released the hook, it slid inside the bight formed by the crotch strap on his lifejacket. Once he stood up the hook was caught, but the AB did not notice, and he signalled to the crane operator to ‘hoist’. The AB was lifted above the deck and out over the side of the vessel.
His immediate, intuitive reaction was to hold on to the pennant wire to relieve the crotch strap tension. The crane operator and a second deck crew member quickly became aware of the situation and were able to land the AB safely back on deck. The duration of the incident, from the AB being lifted and then returned to deck, was about 11 seconds.
Lessons Learned
- Ensure your garments and personal protective equipment (PPE) are not a hazard in and of themselves.
- Keep your situational awareness about equipment, yourself and your workmates sharp.
- Never signal to hoist unless you are sure all is clear.
MARS Reports
This is one of the October MARS Reports that are part of Report Number 312. A selection of this Report has also been published in SWZ|Maritime’s November issue.
Acknowledgement
Through the kind intermediary of The Nautical Institute we gratefully acknowledge sponsorship provided by:
American Bureau of Shipping, AR Brink & Associates, Britannia P&I Club, Cargill, Class NK, DNV, Gard, IHS Fairplay Safety at Sea International, International Institute of Marine Surveying, Lairdside Maritime Centre, London Offshore Consultants, MOL Tankship Management (Europe) Ltd, Noble Denton, North of England P&I Club, Sail Training International, Shipowners Club, The Marine Society and Sea Cadets, The Swedish Club, UK Hydrographic Office, West of England P&I Club
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