A “getting the job done attitude” can have negatives consequences, such as in this Mars Report. In it, a crew man used his foot for leverage instead of asking someone for help, which resulted in his foot being crushed.
The Nautical Institute gathers reports of maritime accidents and near-misses. It then publishes these so-called Mars Reports (anonymously) to prevent other accidents from happening. A summary of this incident:
The vessel was preparing to load a cargo of timber. The ship’s crew were arranging the stanchions on the ship side that would be used for the timber stow on deck.
One upright got stuck and the deck crew man attempted to pull it free, keeping his left foot underneath the upright for leverage. His left foot got stuck between two uprights, resulting in a foot injury. He was taken to the ship’s hospital for treatment, put on light duties and recovered completely within two weeks.
Also read: A gap – a slip – an injury on board an LNG tanker: ‘Don’t overreach, ask for help’
Advice from The Nautical Institute
Much as in this previous Mars report, an “acrobatic” manoeuvre was attempted with a view to getting the job done. This attitude is very common and easily leads to negative outcomes. We all want to get the job done, and we are usually hesitant to ask for help or fetch the right tool. The ‘ask for help’ reflex should be instilled in crew by the vessel leaders.
Mars Reports
This accident was covered in the Mars Reports, originally published as Mars 202251, that are part of Report Number 362. A selection of this Mars Report was also published in SWZ|Maritime’s January 2023 issue. The Nautical Institute compiles these reports to help prevent maritime accidents. That is why they are also published (in full) on SWZ|Maritime’s website.
More reports are needed to keep the scheme interesting and informative. All reports are read only by the Mars coordinator and are treated in the strictest confidence. To submit a report, please use the Mars report form.
Also read: Crew member dies after falling into hold through open hatch
