Root cause/contributory factors
An offshore installation was undergoing major refit works at a repair yard. There were a large number of sub-contractors working at many locations, including fitting a new detachable electrical power supply system to the temporary living quarters (TLQ).
However, when it was observed that there was no power supply, the ship’s electrician was asked to investigate. He saw that the main power supply lead cable, terminating at a 4-pin-male plug, was disconnected from the socket/isolator.
Without ascertaining that the terminals were not live, he grabbed the plug in an attempt to push it into the female socket and immediately received a 440 Volt electric shock, sustaining an electric burn on the left middle finger and an abrasion on the right palm. He was attended to by medical personnel onboard the vessel and an ECG (electrocardiograph) was recorded. He was admitted to hospital for 24 hours and subsequently placed on light duties for a few days.
Root cause/contributory factors
1. The TLQ’s wiring system was fitted with female sockets
which resulted in the extension supply lead cable having live
male ends;
2. The 440 Volt power supply was not isolated from the main
switchboard prior to the re-connection attempt.
3. The importance of rigorous lock-out tag out procedures
was reinforced to crew and fleet.
Source: Mars/Nautical Institute
