Experience Feedback
The Hong Kong Marine Department has issued Merchant Shipping Information Note regarding a fatal fall on slippery deck.
A bosun of a Hong Kong registered bulk carrier fell down on deck and died shortly while he was checking and closing the hatch covers after finishing the loading of coal cargo. This note draws the attention of Shipowners, Ship Managers, Ship Operators, Masters, Officers and Crew to the lessons learnt from this accident.
The accident
1. A Hong Kong registered bulk carrier was loading coal cargo at the outer anchorage of Samarinda, Indonesia. The bosun fell down on deck and died shortly afterwards while he was checking and closing the access hatch cover of a cargo hold.
2. At the time of the accident, it was raining, the wind was slight and the sea was calm. No rolling or vibration of ship was experienced, but the deck was slippery with wet coal dust.
3. The investigation revealed that the bosun probably slipped and fell while he stepped on the slippery wet coal dust on deck, and sustained fatal injury
Lesson learnt
4. A vigilant seafarer helps to minimize casualty at work
Source: Hong Kong Marine Department