Loss prevention Bulletin by the West of England P&I Club
The West of England P&I Club issued a Loss prevention bulletin regardingtransfer of personnel between vessels and installations bypersonnel baskets.
The transfer of personnel between vessels and installations using personnel baskets has been common practice in the offshore oil and gas industry for many years and the hazards are well known. However, seafarers on cargo vessels are less likely to participate in such transfers and may not be familiar with this activity or the potential hazards. With an increasing number of tankers being requested to conduct personnel transfers by basket during Ship to Ship (STS) operations and at offshore terminals, it is important that seafarers recognise the risks involved
Risk Assessment
During the risk assessment the movement of the other vessel should be evaluated, bearing in mind that small service craft may roll and pitch considerably more than the vessel on which the transfer crane is situated. Similarly, the ability of the other vessel to maintain station in the prevailing weather conditions should also be considered.
Crane Specification
If a ships crane is likely to be used for personnel transfers, certification for man-riding should be obtained from the vessels classification society. Many hose-handling cranes on tankers are not designed for man-riding and should not be used unless adapted and certified for this purpose.
Deck Preparations
A deck landing area should be designated for personnel baskets, ensuring that it is free from obstructions (eg sounding pipes, vents, tank lids, pipelines, mooring equipment). The deck itself should be clean, clearly marked and coated or covered with anti-slip material. One or more lifebuoys should be readily available in the vicinity of the crane.
Weather Conditions
Basket transfer procedures should include instructions on the limiting weather conditions beyond which transfers should not take place. The maximum permitted wind speed and sea/swell height, and the minimum visibility should be stated. These should not be contrary to any man-riding restrictions specified by the crane manufacturer or imposed as part of the crane certification.
The weather forecast should be checked regularly to verify that there will be a suitable weather window to complete the planned operation safely, including sufficient time to allow for possible contingencies.
Personnel Baskets
There are several different types of personnel basket in use and the three most common designs are described below. In practice, the type of basket used will often depend on regulatory requirements, the industry sector, the companies involved and the region.
Personnel Using Baskets
Personnel standing on the outside of baskets are at greater risk of falling, and of being struck if the basket hits an object during a transfer operation. Regardless of the type of basket, personnel may also be exposed to the possibility of shock impact if the basket lands heavily, and immersion in water if things go wrong.
All personnel due to be transferred should consent to using the basket, and no one should be forced to do so against their will. Personnel who are being transferred by basket for the first time should be accompanied by someone more experienced.
For more information please read the loss prevention bulletin by clicking here.
Source and Image Credit: West of England P&I Club
