Lessons learned: Ensure better communication between bridge and deck at all times

The incident

Deck crew were installing a portable gangway when a crew person fell into the water. The person was wearing full PPE and a life jacket and was recovered without injury.

What went wrong?

One crew person (AB1) went ashore to pass the gangway ropes to a second person (AB2) on the vessel. AB2 began to pull the ropes without informing AB1, and as a result AB1’s foot became trapped under the gangway.

AB1 could not pick up the gangway from the midway position to release his foot because the only item for lifting in this position was the net and rope which runs through the stanchions. So he asked AB2, on the vessel, to pick up the gangway from the vessel to release his foot.

AB2 attempted to lift the gangway (see photo) but was unable to heave it high enough to release the trapped foot. He then stepped aside with the gangway and at that moment he lost his footing and slipped and fell into the water.

Probable causes

IMCA notes that this was a very simple and wholly avoidable incident with causes that remain “evergreen” or of permanent interest to members.

• The crew did not inform to the Bridge and Captain that they were conducting the gangway activity;
• The crew were tired and in a rush to complete the job; they took no Toolbox Talk nor “Take 5” moment before the job;
• There were not enough people to do the job safely;
• The AB that fell overboard ought have kept three points of contact while working in the narrow bulwark;
• No-one stopped the job – Stop Work Authority was not exercised when the task could not be completed safely;
• There was no risk assessment for installing the gangway.

Lessons learned

• Use Toolbox Talks, even for the most ordinary or everyday operation;
• Ensure better communication between bridge and deck at all times, not just when installing gangways;
• Check onboard arrangements for manual handling of gangways, including development of Risk Assessment
• Ensure sufficient supervised and properly rested crew are available for the job.