The Nautical Institute presents an incident where, a tanker was at anchor near a port and some maintenance was being carried out.
The electrician and two engineers were carrying out maintenance work on one of the engine room supply fans. As they attempted to open the fan cover, the electrician put his fingers between the cover of the fan and the impeller blades. The blades were still turning.
The victim suffered a deep laceration to the ring finger of the right hand, even though he was wearing gloves. The victim was sent ashore where surgery had to be performed and he was subsequently repatriated for recovery.
Lessons learned
- Injuries are prevented by using adequate lock out/tag out procedures (LOTO). This appears to not have been the case in this accident.
- Keep your hands safe. Never use your hands to do a task that can be done with a tool.
- Hazard identification prior to any work activity is essential in minimising risks.
- Proper supervision can prevent accidents.