Equipment
Crane
Lifting machines with hoisting and slewing or travelling functions.
Newest 100 Documents
All 607 in search- 202612 Aug
Crane Failure Highlights Crane Inspection Gaps
Two platform crane incidents involved failed sheave bearings, a falling boom and a dropped cable and load block. Inspection gaps included omitted pin removal and inadequate lubrication checks. The alert recommends considering revised inspection criteria, scheduled inspections, training to recognise mechanical distress and lift planning around vessel interfaces.
- 20261 Jul
Inspect A2B Systems and Wire Rope Terminations to Prevent Crane Hazards
A lift boat crane incident involved a detached anti–two-block weight, corroded wire rope and falling components. Recoiling rope struck a nearby diver, causing minor injuries. The alert recommends considering termination maintenance, pre-use and periodic inspections, adjusted replacement intervals in corrosive environments, and competence assurance under API RP 2D.
- 20266 Jun
Poorly Maintained Crane Components Result in Multiple Personnel Injured During Transfers
Two offshore personnel-basket transfer incidents involved uncontrolled crane auxiliary-line descents and injuries. Investigations identified uncorrected component deficiencies in one case and inadequate hoist brake adjustment in the other. The alert recommends considering timely maintenance, loaded brake checks, wire-rope fouling checks, stop-work interventions, clearer transfer communications and verified medical evacuation arrangements.
- 202614 May
High Potential Near Miss: Dropped object due to contact with crane sheave
A vessel crane near miss involved a DP beacon striking sheave protection bars, detaching with its holder and falling to the deck. Nobody was injured. The flash examines wire-mounted attachment, absent secondary retention, unconsidered management of change and inadequate access controls, highlighting crane limits and third-party equipment coordination.
- 202628 Apr
Unsecured sheave pin fell from crane
A 1.3 kg sheave pin fell from a third-party crawler crane and was found on deck, with no injuries. The flash identifies incomplete assembly documentation, an undocumented configuration agreement and absent secondary retention. Lessons address configuration records, additional securing safeguards and responsibility for subcontracted equipment risks.
- 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.
- 202615 Apr
LTI – crew member squeezed between buoy and cargo rail
An anchor-handling crew member was trapped against a cargo rail when releasing a remaining lashing allowed a partly interconnected buoy to spring back. The flash describes crane positioning, rescue using a tugger line and aft capstan, and helicopter evacuation. Lessons emphasise checking residual securing and stored energy before moving complex loads.
- 202631 Mar
Source control planning and procedures information paper
This information paper sets out regulatory expectations for offshore loss-of-well-control preparedness across environment plans, well operations management plans and safety cases. It covers capping-stack selection and deployment, relief-well design and dynamic kill analysis, plume modelling, subsea dispersant supply, water-column monitoring, response-time modelling, coordinated operations and readiness exercises.
- 202624 Mar
BSEE: Crane incident leads to serious facial injuries
This flash summarises BSEE findings on a lifting pin failure during well abandonment aboard a lift boat, resulting in serious facial injuries. It describes stuck casing, excessive loading, incorrect sling positioning and unsuitable procedures, with recommendations addressing free loads, rigging plans, safe working loads and stop-work authority.
- 20263 Mar
BSEE: Falling corroded crane component results in near miss
A corroded crane boom cable runner fell approximately 16 m during maintenance on an offshore platform, landing approximately 6 m from personnel. The flash describes outstanding inspection repairs, incomplete hazard identification and absent barricades, with lessons on inactive equipment, dropped-object controls and workforce involvement in pre-job planning.
- 20263 Mar
Dropped object: falling shim plate while lowering A-frame
A shim plate fell 15 m onto a crane cabin roof while a vessel’s A-frame was being lowered. The unsecured plates had remained in place through dirt and corrosion. The flash examines earlier modification and maintenance, missing hazard analyses, subsequent securing, and checks for components affected by changing crane inclination.
- 20264 Feb
BSEE Safety Alert 512 - Crane Incident During Well Abandonment Operations Injures Worker, Reveals Safety Gaps
A lifting pin failed and struck a worker during crane-assisted casing removal for well abandonment. Findings identify obstructed casing, excessive loading, misplaced sling connections and unsuitable procedures. Recommendations address free loads, correct equipment and rigging, accurate safe working loads, hazard awareness and stop-work authority.
- 202622 Jan
Dropped GRP cover during subsea lifting
A GRP manifold cover detached during subsea relocation and dropped approximately 7 m, without injury or damage to the manifold or bottom structure. Findings identified excessive loading during a crane mode transition and erroneous lifting-rod calculations. Revised lift planning removed the mode switch and used deployment lifting points; keeping divers clear prevented potential serious injury.
- 202612 Jan
High potential dropped object - cradle falls from trailer
Two cradle inserts fell from a trailer before lifting rigging was fully tensioned, with four personnel nearby but no injuries or equipment damage. The flash identifies unstable upright storage, premature removal of securing straps, deficient lift documentation and communication, and conflicting banksman duties. Lessons address lift planning and understanding load geometry.
- 202612 Jan
LTI – back injury
An Able Seaman suffered a lower-back injury while lowering a crew transfer vessel’s gangway onto the quay. The flash examines lone manual handling, crane-position constraints, uncertain gangway weight and inadequate procedural risk controls. Lessons include ideally using two people when mechanical aids cannot be used, reviewing assessments and verifying gangway weights.
- 202510 Dec
Crane operator competence guidance note
Guidance for Australian offshore petroleum facility operators on assuring crane operator competence. It explains operator responsibilities under objective-based legislation and recommends crane-specific competency systems covering training, assessment, reassessment and records. Simulator training and manufacturer input are options; certificates complement rather than replace the operator’s assurance responsibilities.
- 20255 Dec
Falling Corroded Crane Component Results in Near Miss
A corroded crane boom cable runner fell approximately 50 feet during maintenance on an offshore platform, landing approximately 20 feet from personnel. The alert identifies uncompleted inspection repairs, incomplete hazard identification and absent barricading, and recommends considering improved job safety analysis, supervision and maintenance follow-through.
- 202517 Nov
Fingertip crush injury sustained during lifting operation
A rigger suffered fingertip crush injuries while guiding a pressure cap weighing over 2000 kg onto grillage. Its collar lowered as designed when the inner section landed, trapping fingers. Preliminary findings highlight equipment-specific lift planning, hands-free lifting, discussion of load hazards and stop-work authority.
- 20252 Oct
Crane cab access platform collapsed
A vessel crane’s cab access platform collapsed as the operator climbed the ladder, causing a fall partially mitigated by its enclosure without injury. Hidden weld cracking and corrosion caused the failure. The flash questions inspection access, alternative testing and contractor oversight, and stresses surface preparation before repainting.
- 20252 Oct
Dropped object due to over-ridden limit switch
A vessel crane operator bypassed limit switches while raising the hook for an overboarding lift. A mini beacon struck the clump weight and fell to the deck; a restraint and sensor cable also parted. Nobody was injured. The flash examines knuckle-boom configuration, override decisions, safety-system verification and safer equipment design.
- 202517 Sep
SWL plate dropped from crane block
A safety flash describes a 0.9 kg SWL plate falling from an auxiliary hook block onto a vessel’s main deck, with its fall height unconfirmed. Suspected galvanic corrosion caused rivet failure. It highlights missed inspection hazards, undocumented fittings, checks of other plates and a brought-forward third-party DROPS inspection.
- 202514 Aug
Shore-side crane boom collides with vessel mast
A dock crane boom struck a vessel mast during shipyard lifting, dislodging wind and GPS sensors onto the deck. The flash describes poor visibility, ineffective banksman positioning and crane movement without signals. Discussion actions emphasise banksman roles, clear communication and providing dockyard management with vessel layout and dimensions before operations.
- 202518 Jun
NTSB: Vessel crane contact with shore-side crane
This safety flash summarises an NTSB investigation into a crane barge contacting a dockside crane while being pushed at North Charleston Terminal. The probable cause was failure to identify the overhead hazard. Lessons highlight projecting dockside cranes, vessel air draft and bridge crews’ knowledge of vessel dimensions.
- 20254 Jun
Injury to thumb during lifting operations
During vessel demobilisation alongside, a crew member injured his thumb when a crane-held load was lowered onto a flatbed trailer while he repositioned a wooden block. The flash identifies unclear signalling and possible perceived pressure, and recommends lift planning, toolbox talks, agreed communication protocols and safe positioning around loads.
- 202516 May
Unintended Cargo collision during lifting operations
During vessel-to-vessel backloading, sudden rolling disrupted cargo positioning and the load struck adjacent cargo on the receiving deck. Limited clearance, inadequate load stabilisation and delayed communication contributed. The flash highlights toolbox talks, assessment of vessel movement risks, improved coordination and readiness to stop work.
- 20257 May
Dropped Object Due to Corroded Deluge Flange
Following placement of a lower completion assembly, a retracting crane’s twin hook stinger swung and struck a deluge-line blanking flange. The 4.95 kg flange detached and fell 4.5 metres onto the drill floor, landing approximately 1.5 metres from the nearest person. The incident was classified as having fatality potential.
- 202516 Apr
BSEE: Crane safety awareness during offshore helideck operations
An offshore helicopter landing nearly ended in collision when a crane operator raised the boom as the aircraft was 10 feet from touchdown. The pilots performed a successful go-around. Drawing on BSEE findings, the flash highlights procedural enforcement, communication and coordination, with recommendations also applicable to vessel approaches and simultaneous operations.
- 20253 Apr
Incidents occurring during decommissioning
This safety flash compiles decommissioning incidents involving offshore structures, lifting and diving work. Cases include falling loads, damaged rigging, structural collapse, chemical exposure and underwater burning. It summarises breaches of selected life-saving rules and records a riser recovery incident in which personnel remained clear of the lifting area and escaped injury.
- 2025Apr
CHIRP Superyacht FEEDBACK 9 (April 2025)
This superyacht incident digest examines a post-dry-dock fire, unsuitable crew accommodation during repairs, drug use, inadequate provision for working aloft, a falling crane hook, fatigued anchoring and unrecognised enclosed spaces. Commentary addresses safety culture, equipment readiness, familiarisation, design feedback and atmospheric testing.
- 202519 Mar
Injuries during lifting operations
Two lifting incidents caused minor injuries: crane two-blocking parted a wire and dropped lifting gear, while excess loading of a soft sling released a shackle during component alignment. Common findings concerned operator competence, supervision and line-of-fire awareness. Lessons emphasise experienced personnel, active supervision and keeping people clear of danger.
- 20256 Mar
Divers helmet struck and damaged subsea by crane hook
A crane hook slipped from a pipe handling frame during subsea spool tie-in work in poor visibility, striking and irreparably damaging a diver’s reclaim helmet without injury. The flash identifies insufficient pennant length and discusses safe separation, position monitoring, reinforced communication, rigging inspections and revised task hazard analysis.
- 20256 Mar
MAIB: Very serious leg injury during crane operations
An IMCA flash summarises a MAIB investigation into a second officer’s leg injury aboard Kommandor Orca. His leg was trapped in a deck crane’s rack-and-pinion traversing mechanism, requiring below-knee amputation. Findings highlight unsafe local operation, omitted permit hazards, absent onboard operating procedures and flawed training.
- 2025
CHIRP Maritime FEEDBACK 79 (Summer 2025)
Six confidential maritime reports examine heavy-weather fatalities, navigational audit findings, lifting entanglement, a pilot boarding fall, obstructed firefighting equipment and exposure to residual acid fumes. Commentary connects operational shortcomings with communication, supervision and safety culture, with separate lessons for seafarers, ship managers and regulators.
- 202417 Dec
High potential: spontaneous opening of hydraulic release shackle (HRS) pin
A hydraulic release shackle opened during vessel lifting operations, dropping approximately 4–5 metres and remaining suspended by its hydraulic hose. Nobody was harmed. Subsequent checks identified damage to two shackles. Findings highlighted an unassessed change to the hydraulic set-up, procedural non-compliance and inadequate communication; lessons emphasise change control and stopping work when uncertain.
- 202427 Nov
LTI: Finger injury during emergency recovery of ROV
During emergency ROV recovery using an FRC and crane, a worker’s left ring finger was pinched while releasing a hook secured to the crane wire, causing amputation to approximately the nail bed. The flash identifies an unplanned, unassessed release step and records revised procedures, risk assessment and regular recovery training.
- 202427 Nov
NTSB: Crane wire failure
This safety flash recounts a crane wire failure during offloading of a 69-tonne wind turbine nacelle into a cargo vessel’s hold. Undetected corrosion and strand-wire wear were the probable cause. It explains how grease concealed corrosion despite routine inspections and maintenance, and highlights inspection requirements and condition-dependent wire replacement intervals.
- 202411 Nov
Snagging hazards
Two unrelated snagging incidents involved a cargo container catching on a deck light guard and a lifejacket strap engaging a tug’s anchor clutch. Slings parted in the first case; the anchor chain parted in the second. Lessons address visibility, crew communication, winch pre-use inspections and adequately sized clutch securing pins.
- 20245 Nov
BSEE Safety Alert 491 - Vigilance Required in Offshore Helideck Operations
A helicopter approaching an offshore helideck avoided collision by going around after a crane boom was raised near the landing area. The alert identifies communication and procedural enforcement shortcomings. BSEE recommends operators and contractors consider crane-movement suspension, coordinated communications, helideck checks, training and routine audits.
- 202424 Oct
Dropped sheave and clump weight
During wind turbine monopile installation, a clump weight was hoisted into a sheave, breaking it and dropping both components onto the deck. No injuries occurred, but equipment damage and a hydraulic oil spill resulted. The flash highlights simultaneous winch operation, inadequate observation, absent automatic stops and lessons on lift oversight and stopping unsafe work.
- 202424 Oct
Main Crane failure during load test
An offshore crane overload test ended with broken main-block wires and two cargo barges falling into the water. Uneven drum torque followed clutch-pad slipping, linked to inadequate burnishing of new pads. The vessel listed approximately nine degrees; nobody was injured. Lessons cover burnishing, torque testing, planned maintenance and crane FMEA review.
- 202419 Sep
Injury to person during deck crane operations on board survey and supply vessel Kommandor Orca
This investigation examines a second officer’s leg injury during rail-mounted crane operations aboard Kommandor Orca at Portland. It analyses use of emergency-only local controls, entanglement in unguarded rack and pinion gearing, deficient vessel-specific procedures and training, and overlooked hazards. Company actions included remote operation, revised procedures and additional guarding.
- 20243 Sep
Near miss: lift bag released unintentionally from crane hook
A lift bag detached from a crane hook at the splash-zone during a saturation dive and floated near a vessel operating in DP mode. Incorrect folding and attachment allowed buoyancy to defeat the self-locking latch. No harm occurred. The flash recommends risk assessment, rigging checks and a tool basket.
- 20243 Sep
Offshore platform decommissioning near miss
Two workers escaped injury when offshore platform topsides detached and swung above them during decommissioning in Western Australia in 2021. The flash examines inadequately assessed crane auto-tensioning forces and pre-load tension, and outlines technical lift-plan assessment, castellated cuts where rotation is possible, and keeping workers clear of suspended loads.
- 202416 Jul
Bunker hose damaged during connection
During offshore bunkering, a hose secured to a supply vessel’s aft bollard remained attached to another vessel’s crane. Relative vessel movement stretched and damaged its outer layer, prompting cancellation. The flash describes a risk assessment review and bridge communication requirements to avoid tying off crane-connected hoses where possible.
- 202430 May
2024-01 64 Investigation of March 25, 2022, Hydraulic Workover Unit Failure Fatality
BSEE investigates a fatal hydraulic workover unit collapse at Main Pass Block 64 Platform #19. Severely corroded structural casing buckled after crane support was removed, and a worker tied to the unit was pulled into the water. Findings examine load assessment, Anchor Spool stabilisation, oversized equipment and unclear operator–contractor responsibilities.
- 202429 May
Inspector Fatally Injured While Inspecting an Enclosed Facility Crane
An inspector examining J-bolts on a gantry crane at an enclosed compressor station was fatally pinned between a walkway handrail and an overhead ceiling beam. Clearance was only about two inches. Restricted sightlines and absent clear visual or audible communication left the operator unaware of the inspector’s position during crane travel.
- 202422 May
Crew member suspended above deck by lifting equipment
A trainee deckhand aboard a crew transfer vessel was lifted when his loose work restraint lanyard snagged on a rising hook and wire sling. He fell unharmed between one and two metres onto lifting bags. Lessons address lanyard positioning, clearing rigging of snagging points, communication and stopping unsafe work.
- 202422 May
Crew Transfer Vessel (CTV) crew member snagged on tag line and lifted off feet
A CTV crew member guiding slings during crane-hook recovery was lifted about 0.5 m above the deck when a tag line snagged or became entangled on harness carabiners. Prompt intervention returned him unharmed. The flash highlights deck positioning and reports the operator’s procedure review and discussions with crews.
- 202419 Mar
Person pulled to deck by fall arrest harness
A swinging crane whip line caught a worker’s fall-arrest wire during moonpool preparations, pulling them to the deck; no injuries were reported at the time. The flash identifies communication, planning and supervision shortcomings during parallel activities, and recommends clearer communication, conditional tagline use and careful harness connection-point selection.
- 202427 Feb
UK HSE: Crane boom collapse
This safety flash describes a crane boom collapse during preparations to recover a faulty submersible pump from an offshore rig. Debris struck a supply vessel and a snagged cement hose ruptured. The investigation identified an unchecked, incorrectly set limit switch, overridden joystick safety mechanisms and defective safety management. Nobody was injured.
- 202419 Feb
USCG: wire rope hazard management – dropped turbine nacelle
A vessel crane’s wire rope failed during offloading, dropping a 69-ton wind turbine nacelle 2.2 m onto the deck near personnel. Corrosion, wear and monotonic ductile overload were identified. The flash relays USCG recommendations on load testing, lubrication, maintenance tracking, earlier rope renewal, visual inspection and crane-operator training.
- 202416 Jan
BSEE Safety Alert 479 - Lack of Adherence to Helideck Safety Procedures Results in Series of Near Miss Incidents
BSEE reviews six helideck near misses involving gas venting during approach, loose debris, grease, unsafe approach to a running helicopter, crane interference and raised handrails. It recommends that operators and contractors consider personnel instruction, facility-specific procedures, operational planning and pre-arrival briefings to strengthen helideck safety.
- 2024
CHIRP Maritime FEEDBACK 74 (Spring 2024)
This maritime digest examines tug and barge safety, dry-ice asphyxiation, leaking bunker connections, sulphur-emission non-compliance, a fall during mast work, lift-maintenance hazards and open cargo hatches at sea. Commentary addresses leadership, familiarisation, ventilation, permits to work and verified isolation, alongside design shortcomings and protection for confidential reporters.
- 202318 Dec
Failure of personal isolation procedures: Crane became damaged when it was used inappropriately
A crane aboard a vessel in dry dock was damaged when crew attempted to operate it during hydraulic repairs. Personal isolation had been used across several days by multiple people and removed for testing. The flash highlights inadequate risk assessment, the missing permit to work and restrictions on personal isolation.
- 2023Dec
Lorry loaders crush risk from powered tilting stabilisers
Safety notice addressing crushing hazards when powered tilting stabilisers on lorry loaders retract before reaching vertical stowage. It references three fatal incidents in Great Britain since 2019 and sets out manufacturer consultation, possible interlocks and control modifications, operator positioning, separate tilt and retraction operations, and training requirements.
- 202313 Nov
Failure of AHC cylinder causing oil leak to deck
An offshore vessel’s heave-compensated crane suffered a hydraulic cylinder failure during jumper installation. Worn seals allowed oil to accumulate behind the piston, leading to end-cover bolt failure. Approximately 150 litres remained contained aboard. Proposed actions address pressure alarms, seal inspections, return-filter checks and planned cylinder overhaul.
- 202313 Nov
High potential near miss: Crane part fell to deck
A vessel-transit near miss involved a 3.6 kg crane limit switch falling 6.5 m onto the deck without injury. The flash discusses inadequate plate design, unbalanced forces and deficient maintenance arrangements. Actions address redesign and more frequent inspection, while lessons highlight access difficulties and potentially misleading functional test results.
- 202312 Sep
UK HSE – Worker struck in the face by a crane hook
A worker freeing a jammed paper reel with an overhead crane lost an eye after crane contact with the spinning reel made the hook swing into his face. The flash highlights inadequate assessment of machinery malfunctions, missing instructions, and the need to address non-routine operations and routine violations.
- 20233 Aug
Unexpected descent and ascent of mattress lifting frame
A mattress handling frame descended and abruptly ascended near divers during crane operations in active heave compensation mode. No injuries or damage occurred. The flash identifies controller-lock software interactions, obsolete operating manuals and inadequate familiarisation, with actions addressing revision control, operator briefings and protection of the controller-lock button.
- 202324 Jul
BSEE: Overhaul Ball falls to deck resulting in High Potential near miss
A safety flash describes a 350 kg crane headache ball falling 8 m during decommissioning and well abandonment, landing less than 60 cm from a rigger. A snag above the load cell masked slack developing during a blind lift. Recommendations address snag identification, slack detection, crew communication and lift planning.
- 202324 Jul
Chain caught and broke
During removal of a generator hydrogen gland, a chain fall’s pull chain snagged on a cover-sheet bolt and broke, without injury. The flash highlights the transition from chain falls to crane lifting, a lack of task-specific briefing and attention concentrated on the load rather than the lifting equipment.
- 202321 Jun
BSEE: A warning on tagline entanglement
This safety flash summarises four offshore incidents in which workers became entangled in taglines and were lifted, without injury. BSEE recommendations address hands-free alternatives, anti-tangle lines, line condition and length, safe handling and retrieval, clear work areas, and agreed communications before lifting.
- 202321 Jun
Near miss: Personnel transfer basket hit structure
During a crane transfer of two people, a personnel basket slightly struck a platform’s helipad netting rail after an unexpected wave rolled the vessel. No injuries or equipment damage were reported. The flash identifies missing vertical-movement limits and clearance criteria, recommending calculated basket movements in lift plans.
- 202312 Jun
MAIB: Gantry crane wire parted causing injury
An engine-room gantry crane dropped a 1200kg cylinder liner during generator overhaul, damaging equipment and breaking a fitter’s toe. A replacement hoisting wire was 7 m shorter than specified, preventing effective limit-switch operation. The flash reports incorrect maintenance records, inspections and repairs, and recommends testing hoist limit switches before crane operation.
- 202316 May
Crane boom stopper fell to main deck
A vessel crane’s knuckle boom stopper pad detached during slewing in preparation for use. The 15.5 kg component fell 35 m to the main deck without injuring anyone. The flash describes its adhesive-only attachment, subsequent mechanical securing, and recommendations for additional fixings and inspection of difficult-to-access dropped-object hazards.
- 20231 May
Recent Tagline Entanglements Result in Several high Potential Near Misses
BSEE describes four offshore lifting near misses in which workers became entangled in taglines and were lifted with loads, without injury. Operators and contractors are asked to consider safer tagline selection and handling, hands-free retrieval tools, clear work areas, agreed crane signals and job safety analysis of tagline hazards.
- 202310 Mar
Overhaul Ball Crashes to Deck Resulting in High Potential Near-Miss Fatality
During decommissioning and well abandonment, a snagged wedge socket released a 700-pound crane headache ball, which fell 24 feet near a rigger. The alert examines misleading load indication and blind-lift communications. BSEE recommends considering snag-point assessment, secondary slack detection, verified load movement, toolbox discussions and safe-zone planning.
- 202327 Feb
Ineffective Crane Stinger Hook Pin Installation (BSEE)
A platform crane hook and suspended wireline lubricator fell after a sheared cotter pin allowed the hook pin to back out. This flash summarises BSEE findings on inadequate pin design and recommendations for threaded pins with nuts and keepers, retrofitting improper arrangements and adding pin-condition assessment to pre-use inspections.
- 202316 Feb
LTI: Finger crushed while moving mobile gantry crane
A bosun crushed his index finger while dragging a dismantled mobile gantry crane support leg when a wheel turned and the leg collapsed. The flash identifies inadequate planning, communication, supervision and risk assessment. Actions included a lighter crane with wheel locks, improved deck access and further safety training.
- 20239 Feb
High-potential near miss: Uncontrollable movement of auxiliary whip line
A vessel crane near miss involved uncontrolled auxiliary-line movement during start-up following water damage to its encoder. The wire parted, ejecting the block and hook before they fell to the deck; nobody was harmed. Lessons address encoder replacement, crane inspection, hook storage and revised procedures, risk assessments and personnel barriers.
- 2023
CHIRP Maritime FEEDBACK 71 (Summer 2023)
This maritime digest examines engine defects, misleading master–pilot exchanges, language barriers, a power shutdown, a yacht collision and repeated falls from a paint raft. Commentary addresses commercial pressure, communication and supervision. A separate article describes automated tank cleaning with high-pressure spinning nozzles and remote drone inspections to reduce enclosed-space entry.
- 202221 Dec
Near miss: load lifted without notice putting crew in the line of fire
An offshore cargo-lifting near miss exposed an AB untwisting a sling to potential crushing between cargo and a container when lifting began without warning. Poor crane visibility and communication were reported. Work stopped without injury; lessons emphasise vigilance, stakeholder communication and adherence to deck and stop-work policies.
- 202214 Dec
Auxiliary Line Abrading Causes Rope Guard Failure
An auxiliary line abrading crane sheave components caused a rope guard to fail and fall approximately 100 feet near personnel below. The alert explains how high-speed line movement produces damage and recommends pre-use wear inspections and replacement of single main load line idler sheave carriers with a double sheave idler.
- 202212 Dec
Ineffective Stinger Hook Pin Installation - High potential for injury and Equipment Damage
A crane stinger hook and suspended wireline lubricator fell at a Gulf of Mexico energy facility after a cotter pin sheared and the hook pin backed out. The alert identifies inadequate pin design and recommends threaded pins with nuts and keepers, retrofitting improper configurations and assessing pin condition before lifting.
- 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.
- 202223 Nov
Oil leakage from vessel crane onto quayside
A vessel crane’s hydraulic hose ruptured during retrieval of anchor handling chains, spilling oil onto the quayside. Poor lighting hindered detection during inspection, and crew initially failed to report the incident. The flash calls for awareness of environmental reporting requirements and planned hose inspection and condition-based renewal.
- 202210 Nov
BSEE: Hazards associated with cranes on idle facilities
This flash summarises BSEE observations of deteriorated cranes on idle Gulf of Mexico facilities. Corroded cables, degraded slings and leaking reservoirs present dropped-object and pollution hazards. Recommendations address removing or temporarily securing blocks and balls, inspecting cranes before return to service, storing or discarding slings, and clearing reservoirs and hoses.
- 202210 Nov
BSEE: Unsafe crane working practices result in injury
A mechanic fractured his tibia when a crane boom dropped during a boom tip changeout. The flash describes omitted rigging and safety pins, deviations from the work scope and inadequate JSA review. Recommendations address stop-work authority, written disassembly procedures, pinch-point awareness and realistic first-aid drills.
- 20225 Sep
LTI: Diver suffered crush injury to finger
A diver injured his ring finger positioning a subsea tree panel during decommissioning when vessel heave moved the crane-supported load. The flash recommends hands-off lifting wherever possible, reviewing risk assessments where this is not possible or advisable, and providing guidance for choosing between crane and lift-bag methods.
- 2022Sep
CHIRP Maritime FEEDBACK 68 (September 2022)
Maritime incident digest examining unsafe work aloft, a timber-cargo overboard casualty, fatal crane-access falls, engine maintenance, navigation errors, tug capsizing and flooding, hot-fuel burns and an eye injury. Commentary addresses continuous harness connection, rescue planning, towage competence, watertight closures, maintenance programmes and accountability during permitted work.
- 202210 Aug
Hazards Associated with Cranes on Idle Facilities Pose Safety and Environmental Risks
BSEE reports deteriorated crane cables, missing components and pollution hazards on idle Gulf of Mexico facilities. Corroded cables and weather-exposed slings create dropped-object risks. Operators are advised to consider removing or securing blocks and balls, inspecting cranes before returning them to service, and clearing diesel and hydraulic reservoirs and hoses.
- 202220 Jul
Unsafe Working Practices Result in Crane Injury
A mechanic sustained a severe leg fracture when a crane boom dropped during a boom tip changeout. The alert describes omitted rigging and safety pins, shortcomings in job safety analysis, and lifesaving first aid. BSEE recommends operators and contractors consider stronger task reviews, written disassembly procedures and stop-work practices.
- 202214 Jul
Broken Chinese Finger
A Chinese Finger connector failed during reeving of a crane’s auxiliary hoist, dropping the hoist wire into a cargo hold and the messenger wire onto the main deck. The account identifies a sharp, untapered wire end, point loading and insufficient tension resistance. Nobody was injured.
- 202214 Jul
Man overboard from anchor handler tug
During a grapnel run on an anchor handling tug, a T-bar hook snagged a crew member’s life jacket while chain was being overboarded, leading to a fall into the water. The crew recovered him within three minutes. Lessons address rescue drills, subcontractor oversight, snag-point removal and safer overboarding methods.
- 20224 Jul
Damage to bulwarks during overboarding of mattresses
A mattress stack struck a vessel’s port bulwarks during overboarding when swell induced a pendulum motion. Nobody was injured, and planning, tag lines and safe personnel positioning were in place. The flash describes crew discussions and review of lift planning to consider crane limitations and load routes.
- 20224 May
Maintenance and painting – two incidents
Two maintenance-related incidents involved a lifeboat brake mechanism and a crane high-hook alarm. Paint restricted moving components; a broken shackle affected lifeboat braking, while the crane hook block struck sheaves. Neither incident caused injury. Actions include post-maintenance operational checks, alarm testing, crane movement monitoring and dye penetration inspection.
- 20224 May
Riggers injured while disconnecting rigging
Three riggers were injured while disconnecting timber-pad rigging on a nearshore cargo barge. Unexpected vessel movements tensioned the slings, striking an arm and two workers’ hands. The flash identifies insufficient slack and premature disconnection, emphasising allowance for vessel motion, supervisor instructions and consideration of leaving rigging attached.
- 202221 Apr
Communications: LTI finger injury during lifting operations
A rigger suffered a crushed ring finger requiring fingertip amputation during vessel demobilisation, when hoisting began with a hook still attached to a container lifting eye. The flash examines disputed hand signals, inadequate lift planning, unclear banksman responsibilities and unsuitable glove impact ratings, recommending clearer communication and documented demobilisation planning.
- 20228 Apr
Riggers struck/trapped by pipe section
This safety flash describes riggers struck by a suspended pipe moving sideways during transfer to a pipelayer conveyor, with one trapped against a handrail and suffering a back fracture. Findings address crane slew, supervision and conflicting positioning instructions. Lessons emphasise confirmed communications, clearly defined safe positions and maintaining awareness during repetitive work.
- 20228 Apr
UK HSE: worker died following fall from crane platform
An electrician repairing gantry-crane wiring died after a walkway access panel failed beneath him. This safety flash summarises HSE findings on neglected panel maintenance, previous weld repair and the absence of evidence that the panel had been safely replaced and secured. It highlights risks from unsecured access panels.
- 202231 Mar
Breakdowns in Communication and Preparation Lead to Failure of Synthetic Slings
Two polyester slings failed during gantry-crane demobilisation, dropping the load approximately six feet onto deck infrastructure without injuries. The alert identifies inadequate lift planning, procedures, job-specific hazard analysis, weight calculations and rigging capacity, alongside reluctance to stop work. Recommendations address preparation, communication, load verification and reassessment of unsafe work.
- 202216 Mar
Crane Anti-Two Block Weight Pulled into Boom Tip Causing Damages to Auxiliary Cable and Sheave
This alert describes repeated anti-two-block weight failures on a platform crane, with bypassed alarms and damage to the auxiliary cable and boom-tip sheave. It links an earlier sensor and chain incident to subsequent component changes, and recommends considering improved inspections, change management, operating procedures, training and oversight of safety-system bypasses.
- 202225 Feb
Jacking Up Lift Boat During Crane Operations
During well abandonment, a lift boat was raised with crane slings still connected to a wellhead. Suspected snagging on hanger pins preceded sling failure and injury to an operator. BSEE recommends considering interface disconnection, attentive crane operation, elevation-adjustment procedures and job safety analysis addressing interconnected equipment.
- 202210 Feb
UK HSE: Offshore crane boom hoist failures
This flash summarises two offshore crane incidents in which boom hoist ropes left sheaves, sustained undetected damage and failed during lifting. Booms and loads fell, with no injuries reported. It discusses possible slack-rope and installation-twist mechanisms, and recommends controlled operation, manufacturer-guided stowage, retention-bar inspection and rope-seating checks.
- 202228 Jan
Near miss: Diver's umbilical drawn beneath a load
A diver’s umbilical was drawn beneath a GRP cover by suction during rigging hook-up. Vessel heave unexpectedly lifted the cover while crane active heave compensation was in use. The soft seabed prevented damage, with no service interruption or injuries. The risk assessment had not identified this umbilical movement hazard.
- 2022Jan
Offshore cranes
HSE safety notice examines two offshore crane boom hoist rope failures in 2020, when ropes displaced from sheaves became severely damaged and booms fell without injuring anyone. It discusses possible wind, slack-rope and installation-twist mechanisms, and specifies precautions concerning boom stowage, smooth operation, retention bars, pre-use checks and replacement-rope installation.
- 20219 Dec
Failure of 64mm polyester rope in subsea mooring operations
A 64mm polyester rope parted while subsea equipment was being lowered, following overload from unsynchronised crane and deployment-winch movements. Nobody was injured, but equipment was damaged. The flash examines missed operator concerns, simultaneous operations and unused stop-work authority, and describes tension indication, improved coordination and retraining in existing procedures.
- 202125 Nov
Dropped object: Dislodged flex-joint laydown tool component
An 85 kg load-ring half plate fell about 1.8 m to deck during flex-joint laydown-tool removal on a tilted J-Lay Tower. Nobody was injured. Manual removal replaced the approved crane-assisted method without risk assessment. The flash emphasises procedural compliance, management of change and stopping work when uncertain.
- 20218 Nov
Hand pinched between cable and cable roller frame
A cable-lowering operation trapped a supervisor’s hand against a roller-table post, causing a laceration despite a protective glove. The flash identifies omitted cable movements in the task risk assessment, absent task-specific briefing and inadequate pinch-point marking. It highlights unused stop-work authority and recommends worksite risk assessment review.
- 20211 Oct
MAIB: Crush fatality during lifting operations
This safety flash summarises MAIB findings on a fatal crushing aboard Cimbris during hatch cover lifting. It highlights restricted operator visibility, the absence of a lookout, inadequate planning and supervision, and poor communication. Company actions included mandatory safety sentries, reviewed procedures and an instruction card defining lookout duties.