Descending and ascending stairs on a rolling ship can be a challenge. In its latest Mars Report, The Nautical Institute warns crew to have “three points of contact” at all times.
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:
A vessel underway at sea was experiencing some rolling under heavy weather conditions. Crew were undertaking normal housekeeping duties. A crew member slipped while descending a staircase and, with only his right hand lightly gripping the handrail, his efforts to stabilise his body were ineffectual. His small finger was bent back and sustained injury on the vertical post as he fell.
Also read: Routine task ends with fall
Investigation findings
The company investigation found that although he had proper personal protective equipment (PPE), his method of descending was suboptimal, in that, with only one hand on the right handrail, he was ignoring the good practice of having “three points of contact” at all times. Risks were also more acute due to the rolling of the vessel.
Also read: Practices should match procedures: Lethal fall from height inside a hold
Lessons learned
- Everyday tasks and movements can appear less risky over time due to familiarity. Don’t let your guard down!
- It is good practice to have a firm grip and use both hands on each handrail while using a staircase
Mars editor’s note: ‘I am personally aware of another incident where an outside staircase had become more slippery over time as the anti-slip paint was gradually worn away. The gradual nature of the wearing away had led the crew to “adapt” their behaviour and they all took great care while using the staircase – but hadn’t yet thought to redo the anti-slip paint! When an outside party came to audit the vessel, she fell on that very staircase due to it being wet and slippery. Luckily, she was not badly injured.
Also read: Never climb a vertical ladder without continuous fall protection
Mars Reports
This accident was covered in the Mars Reports, originally published as Mars 202335, that are part of Report Number 370. A selection of the Mars Reports are also published in the SWZ|Maritime magazine. 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.
