IMCA informed on a near miss incident, where during a ship’s voyage, which was sailing with the cranes secured on deck, the Captain noticed a 30cm long piece of 10×10 timber lying on the side of the hook.
The incident
During a voyage under good weather conditions, the Captain of a ship decided that the vessel would sail with the cranes secured on deck. During the second day of the trip, the Captain was looking at the main hoist block of the forward crane, which was secured at the same height and behind the bridge, when he saw a 30cm long piece of 10×10 timber on the side of the hook.
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Probable cause
The piece of timber was placed there during a re-reeving operation some months before. However, IMCA could not confirm this and it may have been there even longer. The piece of timber was immediately removed.
Lessons learned
- Ensure that your work area is suitable for using loose equipment;
- Ensure that your work area is checked for loose equipment during your job;
- Ensure that your work area is cleared up after completion of your job;
- Use a tool lanyard when working at height with tools.
