The MSF has published safety alert regarding an incident in which a crewman fell down the stairs and got injured. The incident occurred following recovery of the vessel’s daughter craft (DC) when the crewman had informed the Officers in the bridge that the small boat had been recovered and safely stowed.
He left the bridge and was making his way down the external stairway to the boat deck when he slipped and fell down the stairs to the deck below. His left arm came into contact with the stairs. The injured party (IP) was transferred from the vessel via helicopter to hospital, where a fracture of his left forearm was confirmed.
Findings
On investigation, it was determined that the stairs were in good condition they had been fitted with grips, these were in good condition. The IP was wearing all appropriate PPE, including his safety footwear, this was checked and the boots were found to be in good condition. The weather at the time was cloudy, wind force 3 knots, sea height 1-2mtrs, although the IP stated the vessel rolled just prior to his fall.
The IP stated he was using the trailing hand technique whilst transiting the stairs, although he had a radio in his other hand. No radio sling/holster onboard. Given the circumstances of the event as described, whilst it is not always possible to avoid carrying items when transiting stairways, in this circumstance it should have been possible and may have avoided the incident.
The incident occurred after the original work task had been completed (DC recovery). This was identified as a trend in the vessel owners fleet.
Actions Taken / Recommendations Topics to be taken into consideration:
Source: Marine Safety Forum
