IMCA provides lessons learned from an incident during which while a crew member was replacing a knife into its sheath, he cut his left Index finger.
The incident
This serious injury was sustained while someone was replacing a knife into its sheath. The crew member had been splicing 12mm polypropylene rope for use as guide ropes on the gangway.
He had removed his gloves to splice the ropes, and once finished, attempted to put his knife back into its sheath at his belt, still without gloves.
Probable cause
He missed the sheath with the knife and pushed the knife into and down his left Index finger, causing a large deep incision, requiring surgery to correct possible tendon damage, and close the wound.
Lessons learned
- Only use knives for their intended purpose;
- Never use “homemade” tools;
- Cut away from yourself, away from your body, keeping all fingers out of your cutting line;
- Use all personal protective equipment required including gloves;
- Cut on a stable surface;
- Stay focused;
- Don’t rush, take plenty of time, care and pay attention to what you and your knife are doing.
