Control
Fall Prevention
Collective or personal measures preventing falls from height.
Newest 100 Documents
All 175 in search- 202628 Jul
Man overboard from the bulk carrier World Prize with the loss of 1 life
This investigation examines a bosun’s fatal fall into the sea during combination-ladder rigging on World Prize. It analyses normalised unsafe practices, ineffective supervision, permit compliance, incompatible flotation and harness equipment, and radio shortages. Pilot-boat recovery capability and training gaps are examined alongside subsequent corrective actions; no recommendations were made.
- 202618 Jun
Fall overboard from the crab potting vessel Amadeus (TH7) with the loss of 1 life
Investigation of a fatal fall overboard during manual crab-pot hauling on Amadeus in the North Sea. It examines low bulwark protection, biomechanical demands, almost certain significant fatigue, absent flotation and ineffective recovery arrangements. Findings address deficient safety management and regulatory oversight, with recommendations on fall prevention, handling assessment and work–rest monitoring.
- 202628 Apr
Failure of moonpool railing system caused man overboard situation in moonpool
A degraded removable railing post failed when a crew member lost balance beside a moonpool. They caught a guidewire and were rescued with a boathook, sustaining a dislocated shoulder. The flash examines inspection omissions, unclear responsibilities and ineffective hazard follow-up, recommending secured barriers, preventive maintenance and pre-task assessment of barrier failure.
- 202615 Apr
Death of seafarer due to fall from crane cabin
A seafarer cleaning a cargo crane cabin on an anchored vessel fell 12 m to the deck and died. The investigation identified probable window seal failure following removal of protective grating. Possible corrosion and glass weakening are discussed, alongside lessons on barrier integrity, structural inspection, routine-task risk assessment and warning signage.
- 2026Mar
Personal Safety (USCG)
US Coast Guard inspection questions address personnel safety on manned and unmanned OCS platforms. They link protective equipment, housekeeping, deck guarding, lifesaving provision, escape arrangements and emergency drills to regulatory authorities and enforcement actions. Individual entries carry update labels, including March 2026 changes to escape and survival equipment checks.
- 202613 Feb
Fall from height during mooring due to rope tension reaction
A tanker’s propeller caught a mooring rope, loading a jetty dolphin platform until the line parted. The platform recoiled and a kneeling worker fell onto a lower platform about 1.8 metres below, sustaining minor scratches. The flash examines barrier design, body positioning, communication and keeping clear of tensioned lines.
- 202622 Jan
Some positive findings and good practices
This flash presents four positive marine safety observations: thorough safety-zone entry checks on a PSV, a fabricated mesh guard protecting an open mud-tank hatch during ventilation, simulator-based officer training in Papua New Guinea, and crew-led deck upkeep. It reinforces procedural discipline, hatch protection, competence development and maintenance beyond dry-dock schedules.
- 202517 Nov
Slipped on stairs, broken finger
A worker slipped while descending stairs and fractured the tip of his right ring finger when his supporting hand was trapped beneath his weight. The flash describes onboard first aid and same-day treatment arrangements, and stresses handrail use and three points of contact on stairs.
- 202517 Nov
Stay in the right place – the importance of personal positioning
Two events illustrate unsafe personal positioning: a seafarer approached a deck edge during berthing to improve visibility, and workers pushed a suspended load during lifting alongside. The flash discusses communication, barriers, hands-free lifting tools, keeping outside load impact zones, clear decks and stopping unsafe work.
- 202527 Oct
Injury after fall from vertical ladder
A crew member carrying a fire patrol device lost grip while climbing a vertical ladder and suffered a minor eyebrow cut after striking a steel bund. The flash examines inadequate ladder design and routine-task risk awareness, identifying possible ladder extensions, anti-slip paint, carrying aids and pre-task discussions.
- 20254 Jun
BSEE: Failure to identify and restrict access to faulty gratings
A worker installing a pump supported himself on nearby piping when corroded grating beneath scaffolding boards failed. Previously installed barricades had been removed to allow work. The flash highlights checks on surface integrity, protection of openings and clear expectations for rigid barricades restricting access to unsafe areas.
- 202516 Apr
Fatality following a fall from a wind turbine
A safety flash describes a fatal five-metre fall at Kilgallioch Wind Farm in Scotland, where the worker had not connected his harness to a fall arrest system. Inquiry recommendations address rehearsed rescue arrangements, suitable casualty stretchers and consideration of technology to warn colleagues when someone disconnects from fall protection.
- 20256 Mar
BSEE Safety Alert - 496 - Misidentification of Corrosion Hazard Results in High Potential Event
A worker installing a pump at a Gulf production facility supported himself on nearby piping when corroded grating gave way beneath scaffold boards. Previously installed barricades had been removed. The alert recommends facility walkthroughs, secure restriction of unsafe areas and review of safe work practices governing barricades.
- 20256 Mar
Person fell in engine room and injured head
An oiler working alone suffered head injuries after a pipe used to reposition a heavy cylinder head slipped, causing him to fall backwards from an unprotected elevated area. The flash highlights underestimated task complexity, familiarity and inadequate lever insertion, and recommends barriers, serious toolbox talks and avoiding lone working where possible.
- 202520 Feb
Near miss: narrowly avoided fall from height due to missing deck gratings
A Chief Engineer narrowly avoided a 4–5 m fall through a missing mezzanine grating during docking. Worksite barriers had been removed after machinery lifting, while a secondary ladder access remained unprotected. The flash examines overlooked access routes, delayed grating replacement and the yard’s subsequent emphasis on vigilance in task planning.
- 202417 Dec
LTI: fall from height during anchor chain handling operation
A bosun on an anchor handling tug supply vessel fell through a gap between chain barriers while passing a tugger wire, landing 2.75 m below and sustaining fractures. The flash identifies unstable footing and inadequate task assessment, and recommends secure access, detailed risk assessment, crew communication and stronger supervision.
- 20244 Dec
Man overboard from potting vessel Pioneer with loss of 1 life
Investigation of the fatal overboard incident from Pioneer south of Hastings examines low bulwarks, unworn flotation devices, unsuccessful manual recovery and delayed distress communication. The initial fall mechanism remains uncertain. Findings address deficient risk assessment, emergency drills, safety training and fishing-vessel inspection and deficiency close-out arrangements.
- 202411 Nov
BSEE: person fell through open hatch
A worker injured his leg and knee after falling through a hatch opening whose damaged cover had been removed. This flash summarises BSEE findings on situational awareness, fall protection and hazard communication, alongside measures operators and contractors should consider, where appropriate, including barricades, safety gates and spotters.
- 202427 Sep
Fall from height on bulk carrier Equinox Seas with loss of 1 life
This investigation examines a fitter’s fatal fall of approximately 10 m through an engine room ventilation trunk aboard Equinox Seas during shipyard maintenance. It identifies inadequate barriers, unassessed fan-removal risks and poor safety coordination, and discusses permit systems, hazard communication and improvements to ship repair safety management.
- 202412 Sep
Fall overboard from sail training vessel Pelican of London with loss of 1 life
MAIB investigates a volunteer relief cook’s fatal fall from Pelican of London’s gangway at Sharpness. It examines ineffective guard ropes, a downward-sloping safety net, deficient risk assessment and informal rigging practices. Alcohol impairment and policies for returning from shore are analysed, with recommendations addressing gangway approval, training and alcohol controls.
- 20245 Sep
BSEE Safety Alert 489 - Situational Awareness Pre-Job Assessment
An offshore worker injured his leg and knee after falling through an opening on a blowout preventer work platform where a damaged hatch cover had been removed. BSEE recommends operators and contractors consider pre-job hazard checks, communication, suitable fall protection, barricades and continued reassessment of changing surroundings.
- 202429 Aug
LTI – person fell from step ladder
A worker maintaining a tool aboard a vessel lost balance when the vessel pitched and fell from an unsecured two-step ladder, fracturing a rib. The flash identifies inadequate risk mitigations and insufficiently robust equipment, and describes securing access equipment and a planned fabricated access point to replace the temporary ladder.
- 202429 Aug
Non-fatal man overboard: worker fell from height into the sea
During installation of a new jacket, a worker fell into the sea from almost 3 m and was recovered unharmed. Required temporary platform and handrails were absent, but work continued. The flash describes a safety stand down, a request to install the protection, and updates to task documentation.
- 20242 Jul
UK MAIB: Man overboard – unguarded opening
A crew member preparing for berthing overbalanced while swinging a heaving line around a pillar and fell through an unguarded opening. Crew recovered the person using a line; medical assessments found no injury. The flash highlights dynamic risk assessment, stopping unsafe work and subsequent installation of a railing.
- 20248 Feb
Fall overboard from fishing vessel Eder Sands with loss of 1 life
Investigates a fatal fall overboard during net shooting west of Ireland. The report examines unguarded working positions, undocumented procedures and inadequate risk assessments. Lifejacket trials support the probable loss of a loosely fitted lifejacket. Recommendations address flotation-device suitability, correct wearing, vessel-specific procedures and consideration of personal locator beacons.
- 202318 Dec
LTI – Finger crushed whilst operating safety gate
A crew member suffered a serious finger injury while raising a hinged fall protection bar to access a crane pedestal platform. His finger became trapped between the bar and handrail at 180 degrees. The flash reports an ongoing investigation, an immediate review of similar arrangements and alternative gates for consideration.
- 202312 Sep
Fall from pilot ladder
During a pre-departure man overboard drill at a shipyard, a Chief Officer fell about 2 m onto a lifeboat after an unsecured pilot ladder slid downwards. He sustained minor bruising. The flash stresses secure ladder installation, officer checks and crew familiarisation with deployment, securing and stowage procedures.
- 20233 Aug
MSF: Person injured falling between decks
An off-duty client representative fell approximately 2 m between decks on an AHTS vessel alongside in port, sustaining multiple injuries. A raised grating edge was a possible trip hazard; the safety chain’s prior position remained uncertain. Actions included replacing chain barriers with gates or railings and improving restricted-area identification and inductions.
- 202324 Jul
LTI – Crew member fell down open hatch
A crew member securing a rope during mooring stumbled into an open hatchway, sustaining three broken ribs and a lost time injury. The flash identifies failures in communication and hazard recognition, absent barriers and warning signs, and lack of a toolbox meeting. It recommends task-specific briefings and discussing protective measures.
- 202311 Jan
Incorrect gangway rigging
Two cases illustrate unsafe gangway arrangements: placement near an unbarriered quay drop with an incorrectly mounted safety net, and deformation over a bollard as propeller wash moved a vessel. Lessons address inclination limits, fencing, safety nets, positioning, assessment of vessel movement risks and adequate gangway watch.
- 202216 Dec
Persons overboard from prawn trawler Reul A Chuain with loss of 1 life
Investigates two falls overboard from the prawn trawler Reul A Chuain in the Sound of Rùm, resulting in the skipper’s death. Examines unsecured net stowage, manual recovery in heavy weather, absent restraint arrangements, flotation device use, cold-water survival and improvised winch recovery. Identified risk controls and practical emergency drills had not been implemented.
- 202213 Dec
MAIB: Worker falls between vessel and quay
A shore worker used a stowed gangway despite crew instructions to wait for alternative access as the tide fell. He slipped and fell over 8 m into the sea, sustaining significant injuries. The flash describes his rescue and stresses safe access arrangements and compliance with instructions to visitors.
- 20222 Dec
Failure of a suspended buoy on workboat Annie E with 1 person injured
Investigation of a grid buoy failure that injured a deckhand aboard Annie E at a Scottish fish farm. It examines worn components, a missing washer, unsuitable lifting arrangements, inspection omissions and exposure beneath a suspended load. Manufacturer instructions, work procedures, induction and fall prevention are assessed; subsequent actions prompted no recommendations.
- 202212 May
Safe Use of Ladders and Stepladders
This safety flash highlights Ladder Association guidance LA455 for workplace use of portable leaning ladders and stepladders. It summarises equipment suitability, stable positioning, securing, pre-use checks and inspection records. Alternative equipment is recommended where a task would require more than 30 minutes at a time on a ladder.
- 20225 May
Person overboard from motor cruiser Diamond Emblem 1 with loss of 1 life
Investigates a fatal overboard accident involving a self-drive hire cruiser on the River Bure. Embankment impact threw a passenger into the water, where rope and propeller entanglement caused injuries and drowning. Analysis examines dual-helm controls, labelling, stern protection, handover competence, risk assessment and regulatory oversight.
- 202111 Aug
BSEE Inspector Nearly Falls Through Unsecure Grating
A BSEE inspector fell to knee level through loose well-access grating, sustaining minor abrasions. Engineering review identified unsuitable construction, loosened connections and inadequate structural loading analysis. The alert recommends that operators and contractors consider barricading unsafe areas, removing specified angle-iron platforms and ensuring professionally engineered access structures.
- 202130 Jul
Descending stairs safely
A vessel observation prompted guidance on descending steep stairs safely. The flash describes local measures covering stair cleanliness, surface condition, handrail use and safety footwear. It distinguishes trailing-hand descent from facing in and descending backwards on steep stairs, and suggests revisiting IMCA stair and ladder posters.
- 202112 Jul
Incidents relating to hatches and doors
Three cases concern a wired-open engine-room fire door, a watertight door left open at sea, and unprotected open wharf hatches. The flash explains the protective purposes of closed doors and reports crew intervention leading to hatch closure and locking, illustrating stop-work authority beyond the vessel.
- 202120 May
Crew member thrown to the quay by unplanned movement of small boat
A crew member replacing a rescue-boat cover on a tug alongside in harbour was struck and thrown onto the quay after inadvertently activating the davit’s slewing mechanism. The flash highlights unfamiliarity with davit operation, omission of a risk assessment for a routine task, and absent guard rails and personal protection.
- 202119 Jan
Positive: Vessel improvements made following a man overboard incident
Following a non-fatal fall overboard from a tug, a member reviewed bow transfers and introduced removable handrails and refresher training. Subsequent dry-dock modifications created a larger, obstruction-free embarkation platform with improved fendering and hazard markings. Similar tugs were scheduled for modification as they docked over the following 12–18 months.
- 20206 Dec
Man overboard incident (not fatal)
A rigger fell overboard while sea-fastening oversized spools in port at night, passing through a temporary chain barrier where bulwarks had been removed. Colleagues rescued him unharmed using life buoys and a pilot ladder. The flash highlights rigid edge protection, adequate lighting and alternative protection when permanent safeguards are removed.
- 20201 Dec
2020-002 GC 205-A Investigation of June 1, 2019, Fatality Lease OCS-G05911 Green Canyon Area Block 205-A
Investigates a fatal fall through a well hatch on the Genesis platform during slickline work. Workers mistakenly lifted the A-13 cover while intending to replace A-14’s cover. The report examines cover identification, securing, handling and task planning, and recommends improved procedures, practical training and designs distinguishing installed from stored covers.
- 202010 Nov
Falls from step ladders
Two step-ladder falls injured a crewman and a forklift operator during descent. The accounts identify unsecured or unstable ladders, uneven decking, damage and missing task safeguards. The flash highlights pre-use checks, routine inspection, quarantine of damaged ladders, risk assessment, toolbox talks and stable positioning.
- 20207 Oct
Grating Failures Cause a Fatality and a Serious Near Miss
This alert describes two grating failures in May 2020: a contractor died after falling 30–40 feet, while an electrician caught himself and was assisted to safety. BSEE recommends considering structural inspections, marking and barricading suspect areas, repairs or mitigation, facility-level fall protection practices, worker discussions and pre-operation job safety analysis.
- 20202 Sep
Man overboard from single-handed creel boat May C with loss of 1 life
Investigates the fatal overboard accident involving May C’s lone skipper at Loch Carnan. The unwitnessed fall most likely occurred while clearing propeller fouling. Analysis addresses cold-water incapacitation, the absence of worn flotation and a carried locator beacon, self-rescue arrangements and difficulties recovering an unconscious person.
- 20206 Jul
Manhole opened and not correctly closed
A deck safety round identified an unsecured manhole cover following ballast-water removal for valve replacement. Its securing nuts had been removed, with no barriers or warnings provided. The flash highlights failure to follow company procedures and overlooked risks of falling into the opening or slipping on the unsecured cover.
- 202023 Jun
Trip and fall down hotel stairs causing serious wrist injury
An employee travelling on business fell while descending hotel stairs, sustaining multiple fractures and a dislocated left wrist requiring surgery. The account identifies mobile phone use and failure to hold the handrail, and stresses avoiding phone use, maintaining contact where possible and remaining attentive on stairs.
- 202022 May
Fall from Height Leading to Injury
A bosun slipped and fell 2.5 m to a vessel’s deck during FRC stowage following davit wire replacement, injuring his ankle. The flash examines an uneven, unguarded area and missed fall hazards in work planning. Actions included revised job safety analysis, fall-protection signage and hazard hunts by unfamiliar personnel.
- 202031 Mar
Near miss: engine room hatch left open without barriers
This safety flash describes an engine-room hatch left open without barriers during routine maintenance. A crew member departed for an urgent task and forgot identified controls. It highlights hatch closure, barricades and warning communication when openings are needed, and a safety meeting reinforcing stop-work requirements.
- 202031 Mar
Worker fell from height and suffered life changing injuries
A stevedore unloading a merchant vessel at Hull fell 3.4 metres into its hold and was paralysed from the waist down. His jacket snagged on an eyebolt while he stepped across a walkway’s ladder gap. The flash describes customary gap-crossing and highlights planning effective fall-prevention measures.
- 20206 Mar
Near miss: Failure of work procedures during hot work at height
A vessel Master spotted welding beside an unsecured edge during installation of access support plates in the port-side davit area. Despite a permit, risk assessment and toolbox talk, height hazards remained unaddressed. Welding was stopped and extra fall prevention installed; the account highlights inadequate assessment and acceptance of a supposedly quick task.
- 202030 Jan
Poor condition of on-board equipment
Vessel safety walk-arounds identified a used galley fire blanket returned to storage and damaged step ladders still in service. The flash describes missed inspections and procedural failures, calling for thorough checklist checks, immediate incident reporting, monthly ladder inspection and labelling, removal of damaged ladders and renewed emphasis on pre-start checks.
- 202010 Jan
LTI: Step into open deck hatch causes fall
A deckhand on an offshore renewables crew transfer vessel suffered a fractured and dislocated shoulder after stepping backwards into an open hatch while receiving luggage. The flash identifies miscommunication, poor hatch visibility, inadequate risk assessment and time pressure, and calls for improved markings, communications, maintenance scheduling and reinforcement of stop-work authority.
- 20209 Jan
Fall on board fishing vessel Artemis with loss of 1 life
Investigates the skipper’s fatal fall through a wheelhouse hatch aboard Artemis in Kilkeel harbour. The report examines altered access arrangements, a near-vertical ladder without handrails and alcohol impairment. The precise initiating event remained uncertain. Recommendations address access design, drug and alcohol policies, and fishermen’s work agreements.
- 20196 Dec
Raising awareness on safety barriers such as railings and gratings
This safety flash summarises two fatal falls on container ships and TSIB advice on inspecting railings, gratings and concealed metallic surfaces. It discusses corrosion and structural deterioration, recommending timely repairs, preventive maintenance, and practicable warning signs and cordoning where corroded barriers could compromise personnel safety.
- 201917 Sep
Fatal fall from height on-board Seatruck Pace in Liverpool in December 2018
A crewman preparing to paint a ramp hatch cover on Seatruck Pace died after falling 4.5 metres through the hatch. He had crossed a temporary safety barrier for undetermined reasons. The flash discusses risk tolerance, procedural adherence and owners’ actions on barriers, work permits, harness records, training and safety culture.
- 201912 Sep
Safety Alert 365 - BSEE Identified Grating and Open Hole Hazards During Risk Based Inspections
BSEE summarises risk-based inspections of 42 Gulf of Mexico facilities, identifying deficiencies in grating integrity, hatch procedures, barricades, orientation and emergency arrangements. Operators are asked to consider improved inspections, maintenance prioritisation, hazard communication, lone-worker checks and clearer stop-work arrangements to address grating and open-hole hazards.
- 201919 Jul
Safety Alert 361 - Multiple Crane Incidents during Heavy Lifting Operations
This alert summarises three Pacific Outer Continental Shelf crane incidents involving a handrail used as a fall-protection anchor, wave-driven boat movement and an unsecured gin pole. BSEE recommends operators consider job-specific staging and hazard analysis, review changed lifting conditions, verify certification and prohibit anchoring fall-protection lanyards to handrails.
- 20195 Jul
Sprained ankle whilst climbing on equipment
A crewman sprained his ankle after slipping from a cable rack inside an offshore wind turbine transition piece. The rack was unsuitable for climbing, and access had not been addressed in the risk assessment or procedure. Lessons emphasise safe access, appropriate ladders and platforms, and stopping work when safe access cannot be established.
- 20192 Jul
Fall from height on ro-ro freight vessel Seatruck Pace with loss of 1 life
This investigation examines an assistant bosun’s fatal fall through an open hatch aboard Seatruck Pace in Liverpool. It analyses temporary edge barriers, trailer trestle use during hatch-cover maintenance, risk assessments and permit arrangements. The report identifies weaknesses in safety culture and records management actions; no recommendations were made.
- 201919 Jun
Man overboard from commercially operated yacht CV30 with loss of 1 life
Investigates the fatal loss of Simon Speirs during headsail lowering aboard CV30 in the Southern Ocean. His tether hook snagged beneath a mooring cleat, distorted under lateral loading and released. The report examines recovery difficulties, jackstay arrangements, guardrail integrity, training, supervision, fatigue and gaps in tether testing standards.
- 20194 Jun
Safety Alert 353 - Offshore Employees Fall Through Grating and Open Hole
This alert describes two offshore incidents involving displaced grating and a mistakenly lifted well hatch cover. One operator was missing; another employee fell approximately 90 feet to a lower deck. With causes still under investigation, BSEE recommends inspections and consideration of barricades, hole watches, secure flooring, fall protection and task-specific hazard analysis.
- 201920 Mar
Near miss: Potential fall through CTV hatch
A crew-transfer passenger climbed over a vessel’s bulwark while returning to retrieve a forgotten telephone, exposing his leg to potential crushing between vessels. A deckhand intervened before contact. The flash also identifies an unguarded hatch and boarding-control deficiencies, recommending hatch barriers, notifications, procedures and clearer inductions.
- 201825 Sep
Lost Time Injury (LTI): Fall on Staircase
A vessel crewman fell while descending stairs, catching his foot in a gap at the bottom and sustaining fractures and dislocation. The flash discusses footwear condition and possible nightshift fatigue, and records warning signage and staircase modification. Lessons address PPE replacement and handrail use.
- 20183 Jul
Man overboard from creel fishing vessel Varuna with loss of 1 life
Investigation of a fatal probable man-overboard incident from the single-handed creel boat Varuna off north-west Scotland. The precise circumstances remain unknown. The report examines the open transom shooting gate, absence of worn flotation and a personal locator beacon, non-functioning AIS, search arrangements, risk assessment and regulatory oversight.
- 201821 Mar
Man overboard from stern trawler Constant Friend with loss of 1 life
This investigation examines a fatal boarding accident at Kilkeel Harbour involving Constant Friend and Silver Harvester. It analyses hazardous guardrail crossings, wet surfaces, vessel movement and probable alcohol-related impairment. The report assesses shortcomings in boarding risk controls, rescue and resuscitation, and recommends reviewing access guidance and improving emergency notification arrangements.
- 201712 Dec
Two industrial vehicle incidents
Two industrial vehicle cases describe a delivery driver fatally crushed by an overloaded forklift overturning and an employee permanently paralysed after falling from a tar laying machine’s bonnet into its hopper. The flash highlights pedestrian separation during unloading, safe work procedures, and planning and risk assessment for work at height.
- 20179 Nov
Cargo collapse on bulk carrier Graig Rotterdam with loss of 1 life
Investigation of a fatal timber deck cargo collapse during discharge from Graig Rotterdam at Alexandria Port. The bosun fell into an alongside barge. The report examines cargo securing, package racking strength, stevedoring practices, supervision and fall protection, while acknowledging uncertainty about how the accident occurred.
- 20175 Oct
Lost time injury (LTI): Loose grating fell from crane, a man fell through and was injured
A swinging crane block struck a pedestal walkway during lifting, loosening grating clips. While inspecting for damage, the operator fell 4.5 m and fractured his left leg; the grating fell 18 m. The flash examines securing arrangements, uncontrolled changes and crane limits, with actions addressing walkway design and operator training.
- 20172 Aug
LTI: Injury to right wrist
A vessel engineer sustained a lost-time wrist/forearm injury when a drill snagged in metal tubing, spun and struck him while working from a ladder platform. The flash discusses inadequate supervision, overlooked changes in task height and deficient work planning, including the possibility of pre-drilling at deck level.
- 201713 Jul
Fall from height – LTI
A supervisor fell 7 m through deck hatches while crew lifted equipment aboard a vessel alongside. Injuries required surgery and prolonged rehabilitation. The flash examines inadequate portable barriers, trip hazards and a generic permit to work, highlighting barrier review and task-specific permitting, with checklists suggested to help address planning lapses.
- 2017May
Corroded Tanks — Process Safety Beacon, May 2017
This bulletin describes two fatal refinery incidents involving corroded tanks: a hot-work ignition of flammable vapours and an operator falling through a weakened hot-oil tank roof during manual measurement. It highlights uncorrected defects, reporting and escalation of corrosion concerns, and avoiding access onto unsuitable or badly corroded equipment.
- 20172 Mar
Man overboard from scallop dredger King Challenger with loss of 1 life
MAIB investigates a fatal fall overboard from King Challenger during access to a damaged scallop dredge bag near Shetland. The report examines tipping-door repair practices, omitted maintenance risks, lifejacket use, rapid cold-water incapacitation and unpractised casualty recovery. It records revised repair methods and recommends reviewing fleet risk assessments.
- 201727 Feb
Two falls – one from a telehandler in a shipyard – failure to think through risks
Two prosecution cases concern falls during elevated work. A contractor died after a telehandler basket jerked following release from fencing in a shipyard. Another worker fell nearly two metres while cleaning a mixing machine. The cases highlight inadequate risk assessment, supervision and training for work at height.
- 201725 Jan
Fatal fall from height during cargo operations – Johanna C
This safety flash summarises a fatal fall aboard Johanna C during cargo repositioning. The chief officer lost his balance when the cargo and/or lifting slings moved unexpectedly, possibly because slings slipped. It highlights unrecognised risks of standing on tensioned loads and the subsequent prohibition on this practice.
- 20166 Dec
Injury after crewman fell downstairs on external stairway
A crewman fractured his arm after slipping down an external vessel stairway following completion of daughter-craft recovery. Investigation found the stairs, grips and safety footwear in good condition. He reported using the trailing-hand technique while holding a radio; no radio holsters were aboard, and he reported vessel roll immediately before falling.
- 201629 Nov
High potential near-miss: Failure in safety gate
A crewman inspecting a gantry narrowly avoided falling when a safety gate bar became detached from its hinge bracket during ladder access. A loosened bolt had left the retaining plate and bolt missing. The flash records immediate repair, ongoing gate checks and an arranged longer-term maintenance strategy review.
- 201612 Oct
Medical treatment: Person fell down unprotected hatch
A shore-side foreman stepped into an open manhole in a supply vessel’s safe haven area. He caught himself, preventing a free fall of 5 m, but sustained shin and forearm injuries. The flash identifies missing barriers and poorly coordinated simultaneous activities, with corrective actions involving gratings and toolbox talks.
- 201612 Oct
Near-miss: Open hatches left without barriers
During contractor tank cleaning aboard a supply vessel, ten hatches remained open for ventilation without individual barriers, despite taped area barricading and a standby person. The flash describes an unchallenged fall hazard and subsequent work stoppage, risk assessment review, clarification of simultaneous-operation responsibilities, and ordering of barriers and vented grating.
- 201612 Oct
Near-miss: Person almost fell from height during anchor chain preparations
A worker nearly fell into a moon pool chain locker during preparations to load anchor chain after its hatch cover was temporarily removed. He caught the hatch edge and called for help. The account identifies absent barriers, inadequate communication of the opening, and unsuitable and insufficient risk assessment and planning.
- 201612 Jul
Routine’ task, non-routine result: A fall from a crane ladder leads to an LTI
An Able Seaman slipped while descending a fixed crane ladder and fell backwards from a height of half a metre, developing lower back pain. The investigation identified loose hand grip and reduced focus on a routine task. Preventative actions emphasised secure footing, unhurried descent and keeping safety shoes and gloves free of oil or grease.
- 201622 Jun
Man overboard from stern trawler Enterprise with loss of 1 life
Investigates the fatal loss of Enterprise’s skipper during net repairs in rough North Sea weather. The report examines unprotected shooting ports, slippery footing, absent lifejacket use and inadequate risk assessment. It analyses difficulties with casualty recovery, delayed distress alerting and insufficient preparation for the skipper’s incapacitation.
- 20165 Feb
Near-miss: Pilot ladder failure
During offshore embarkation, a pilot ladder rope snapped; the person avoided falling overboard by holding an adjacent hand line. The ladder had previously been recorded as unserviceable but remained available. The flash highlights unused stop-work authority, inadequate procedures, quarantine of defective equipment and inspections across other vessels.
- 20153 Dec
Fall from cargo hatch top on general cargo vessel Norjan with 1 person injured
Investigation of a chief officer’s 2.4 m fall from Norjan’s hatch cover during yacht loading in Southampton, fracturing both ankles. It examines trip hazards, unprotected edges, absent fall restraint and arrest, inadequate task-specific assessment and unclear safety responsibilities, recommending cargo safe access planning and work-at-height awareness training.
- 201521 Jul
Extendable Scaffolding Loading Bay Gate - use of cable ties to secure loose mesh and unsafe means of operation
HSE warns that some extendable scaffold loading bay gates provide inadequate containment and expose workers to falls during opening. It describes loose telescopic mesh, interim stainless steel cable-tie securing, inspection requirements and rear-operated opening options. Manufacturers are expected to improve designs; acceptance of cable ties as an interim measure ends in December 2016.
- 20158 May
Badly sprained ankle resulting in LTI
A person descending a wet external vessel staircase slipped and fell approximately two metres to the deck, badly spraining an ankle and becoming unable to work for at least seven days. The flash examines stair geometry, omitted access hazards in risk assessments, footwear protection, handrail signage and vessel induction.
- 20153 Mar
Near-miss: Potential fall from height during launch of rescue craft
An annual vessel rescue-craft inspection identified that launching and securing the boat required a crew member to stand outboard without a protective barrier. The flash reports a potential near miss, a planned short-term safety-harness solution, and arrangements to fabricate and fit a chain rail and stanchion.
- 201431 Oct
Lost time injury (LTI): Fall overboard/fall from height
A hopper-barge crew member suffered serious spinal injuries after losing balance while refitting a mooring line in adverse harbour weather, falling from about 2 m onto a quay-wall fender. The flash examines lone working, absent restraint and inadequate risk assessment, with lessons on securing personnel, mooring arrangements and handling suspected spinal injuries.
- 2014Sep
Person overboard while climbing on stern trawler New Dawn to access stern trawler Horizon II, with loss of 1 life
Investigation of a fatal boarding fall at Royal Quays marina, North Shields. Horizon II’s skipper fell while climbing New Dawn’s guardrails. The report examines hazardous access arrangements, alcohol, wet surfaces, unimplemented risk-assessment measures and delayed recovery, and records marina improvements and recommendations for safer berth access.
- 2014Aug
Person overboard from passenger ferry Snowdrop resulting in recovery of a young child from the water
Investigation of a three-year-old child’s fall from Snowdrop at Seacombe ferry terminal. It examines how seating beside guardrails enabled climbing, the limitations of passenger warnings and supervision, and the crew’s rescue. Cold water impaired the rescuer, while emergency communications were delayed. Subsequent actions included removing adjacent seating.
- 2013Nov
Workplace health, safety and welfare. Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992. Approved Code of Practice and guidance
This Approved Code of Practice reproduces the Workplace Regulations and explains workplace health, safety and welfare requirements. It covers maintenance, ventilation, temperature, lighting, cleanliness, workstation suitability, floors, vehicle routes and welfare facilities. Guidance distinguishes legal duties from recommendations and addresses accessibility, fall prevention and safe window cleaning.
- 201317 Oct
Fatality: Man overboard
A rigger drowned after stepping backwards through temporary barriers while avoiding a moving bulwark load on a vessel at night. The flash examines positioning, a missing barrier stanchion and an unidentified life-jacket requirement, describes unsuccessful rescue and resuscitation, and outlines improvements to risk assessment, edge protection and man-overboard response.
- 2013Jan
Person overboard from scallop dredger St Amant with loss of 1 life
Investigation of an unwitnessed loss overboard from the scallop dredger St Amant while on passage to fishing grounds. Exact circumstances remained uncertain. The report examines low bulwarks, poor housekeeping, absent toilet facilities, inadequate risk assessments, unused flotation protection, emergency response and weaknesses in survey deficiency follow-up.
- 2013Jan
Person overboard from twin rig trawler Zenith with loss of 1 life
Investigates the fatal drowning of a Zenith fisherman swept from the transom rail during net hauling in the Irish Sea. Examines unsafe gear-handling practices, unworn lifejackets, absent risk assessment and emergency drills, and inadequate casualty recovery arrangements. Records operational changes and recommendations for owners on assessment, protective equipment and training.
- 2012Aug
Fall into partially open cargo hold on container vessel Tempanos with loss of 1 life
Investigates a fatal fall into a partially open cargo hold aboard Tempanos at Felixstowe. With no witnesses, the report considers a fall from a hatch cover, possibly following a slip on ice. It examines walkway barriers, cargo-watch practices and ship–shore coordination, recommending improved risk assessments and pre-operation safety meetings.
- 2012Jun
Fall into void space during cargo operations on general cargo vessel Scot Pioneer with loss of 1 life
Investigates a fatal fall into a void space during cargo loading aboard Scot Pioneer at Belview Port. An improvised wooden footbridge used a ventilation opening for hold access and lacked fall protection. The report examines obstructed access routes, unassessed risks, unreported crew concerns, emergency response and subsequent changes to access arrangements.
- 201213 Apr
Safety Alert 301 - Fall/Fatality during P&A/Platform Abandonment
A roustabout died after stepping or being dragged into a deck opening exposed during a night-time power swivel lift on an offshore platform undergoing abandonment. The alert examines short tag lines, obstructed crane visibility, incomplete hazard discussions and supervision deficiencies, recommending comprehensive JSAs, fall protection and clearer medical evacuation arrangements.
- 2012Apr
2012-001 Investigation of Fatal Fall, West Cameron Block 643, Platform A, Lease OCS-G 02241, 18 April 2011, Gulf of Mexico OCS Region
Investigation of a fatal fall during well abandonment on a Gulf of Mexico platform. Moving a power swivel exposed a deck opening. The report examines tag-line arrangements, obstructed crane visibility, inadequate hazard discussion and fall protection, supervisory oversight and delayed medical evacuation, using interviews, records and an on-platform reenactment.
- 201219 Mar
Risks to vulnerable members of the public from falling from height from windows
HSE alerts providers of facilities for vulnerable people to window side-stay restrictor failure following a fatal incident involving mechanisms with plastic spacers. It directs readers to a Department of Health alert and asks providers to consider its issues and take appropriate action to prevent falls from windows.
- 2012Mar
Person overboard from potter About Time with loss of 1 life
Investigates the fatal disappearance of a deckhand from About Time off Pembrokeshire. The unwitnessed fall was considered most probably associated with slipping or tripping near piled fishing ropes and a low bulwark. Analysis addresses deck segregation, footwear, flotation devices, locator beacons, risk assessment, safety training and emergency response.