Equipment
Lifting Accessories
Load-connecting accessories such as slings, shackles and hooks.
Newest 100 Documents
All 550 in search- 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.
- 202624 Mar
Dropped object – strop parted over sharp edge
During a yard stay, an 8.6-ton crane cylinder fell through a vessel’s deck after sharp edges cut a soft sling despite firehose protection. No personnel were injured, but painters were nearby. The flash discusses hard rigging, conditional sling-capacity reduction, risk reassessment and permits addressing conflicting work.
- 202624 Mar
MSF: High potential near miss during FRC maintenance
During sling replacement aboard a vessel, a fast rescue craft slipped from its davit cradle. Two crew members jumped into the sea and were recovered unharmed. The flash describes inadequate securing, a failed bowsing-line carabiner and gaps in work planning, including missing procedures, risk assessment and permit authorisation.
- 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.
- 202615 Jan
Fatal injury to a deckhand following a chain failure on the scallop dredger Honeybourne III (PD905)
Investigation of a deckhand’s fatal injury aboard Honeybourne III after a quick-release chain failed and a towing block fell during fishing-gear retrieval. The report examines chain bending, wear, material properties, inspection competence and suspended-load exposure, supported by laboratory testing and finite element analysis. It records company actions and regulatory oversight deficiencies.
- 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.
- 202517 Sep
Unsafe Lifting practices during dry dock
This safety flash describes a stopped attempt to lift 14 empty oil drums with only a web sling during dry-dock vessel repairs. It identifies inadequate contractor oversight, absent task-specific risk assessment and communication, and underestimated falling-load hazards. Lessons emphasise closer supervision, lifting training, toolbox talks and stop-work authority.
- 202531 Jul
Diver sustains laceration to right hand
A diver retrieving tooling during air/nitrox diving at 18 m suffered a deep right-thumb laceration when vessel movement parted a weak link and drew his hand towards a snatch block. The flash describes downline slack, hand positioning, full recovery, and changes to the downline arrangement and tool bag to reduce line-of-fire exposure.
- 202519 Jun
Fatal accident on the beam trawler Cornishman with loss of 1 life
Investigation material examines the fatal failure of Cornishman’s trawl quick-release chain, including corrosion, side loading and material properties. Technical annexes document magnetic particle inspection, metallography, hardness and break-load testing. Recommendations address inspection, fabrication quality and consideration of alternative release designs; an annex discusses the separate Honeybourne III accident.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 20248 Oct
Dropped Object – Mud Hose Lifting Collar Insert
An incident account describes half of a mud hose lifting collar insert detaching at the top-drive end and falling onto the drill floor within the red zone as casing running began. The newly installed assembly had undergone multiple dropped-object inspections during the yard stay and subsequent top-hole drilling.
- 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.
- 2024Aug
CHIRP Superyacht FEEDBACK 7 (August 2024)
Six superyacht reports examine tender lifting-point failure, fouled anchors near a lee shore, an open shell door, a fall during window cleaning and unsafe diving arrangements. Commentary emphasises thorough risk assessment, properly completed work permits, reliable equipment, crew communication and isolation during underwater maintenance.
- 202431 Jul
Dropped object: unsecured cargo inside box broke lose and fell
A safety flash describes unsecured cargo falling approximately 5 m onto a vessel deck during a quayside lift. A loose hydraulic ram broke its crate and destabilised the pallet assembly. Nobody was injured. Recommendations address cargo securing, competent inspection, trained lifting crews, pallet limitations and wind checks.
- 202418 Jun
UK MAIB: Person injured during lifting of compressor
A contractor was crushed beneath a suspended 1865 kg compressor when a departing vessel rolled slightly. The flash examines unsuitable lifting attachments, unsecured steel bars and an offset centre of mass. It stresses competent lift planning, appropriate supervision and coordination with vessel personnel over departure timing and environmental conditions.
- 20243 Jun
Dropped lifting beam due to parted soft strop
A four-tonne lifting beam fell 50 cm to deck when a one-tonne soft strop parted during relocation. The account identifies an unchecked load weight and a sharp pad-eye edge, with no injuries reported. Actions address edge protection, alternative rigging, verification of load weight and lifting capacity, and stopping uncertain work.
- 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.
- 202412 Feb
Dropped Object
Before laying down a bottom hole assembly, a measurement-while-drilling employee noticed a loose acorn nut on a lifting tool and tried tightening it manually. The employee knew the specified torque was 300 ft.-lbs. but did not use a torque wrench.
- 20247 Feb
Safety warning issued following a chain failure on scallop dredger Honeybourne III with loss of 1 life
This safety bulletin examines a fatal deckhand injury aboard Honeybourne III after a quick-release chain failed during dredging gear retrieval. It discusses wear and inspection difficulties where chains pass over static derrick-head pins, alternative release arrangements, and recommendations for urgent documented risk assessment, mitigation and crew communication.
- 20236 Dec
UK MAIB: Shifting of centre-of-gravity of load
A banksman suffered crush injuries when an unbalanced container swung during unloading from a research vessel in port. Improperly secured cargo and unevenly stowed weights affected the load’s centre of gravity. The flash discusses load distribution in lift planning, escape routes, and rigging arrangements for lifting unbalanced loads vertically.
- 202330 Oct
Near miss: Dropped object during lifeboat testing
During lifeboat launch testing, a 7 kg turnbuckle and shackle fell 23 m onto the boat near a worker, who was unharmed. The closed turnbuckle concealed inadequate thread engagement. Actions included fleet inspections, replacement with inspectable open turnbuckles and revised pre-launch DROPS inspection procedures.
- 202330 Oct
Serious LTI – Person struck in rigging accident
A rigger suffered multiple serious injuries when rigging fell from a hatch cover during vessel loading. The flash examines oversized rigging, misleading drawings, missed radio instructions and fast thinking. Lessons address crew-aware design, positive confirmation of communications and end-user involvement in developing procedures.
- 202316 Oct
Job stopped safely: safe working load limits exceeded
During practical rigger assessment, a student challenged the suitability of machined eye-nuts for a four-leg chain bridle. Research confirmed that the fittings permitted only in-line lifts, while the proposed angled arrangement would exceed their safe working load. Work stopped and training continued with another load, highlighting questioning and rigging-plan verification.
- 20233 Oct
LTI – fingertip pinched by wire sling
A rigger sustained a serious finger injury while fitting a steel wire sling to a forklift fork, which the operator raised without banksman instructions. The flash identifies complacency, poor communication and inadequate task assessment, and emphasises banksman signals, safe positioning and hazard-focused toolbox briefings.
- 202312 Sep
BSEE: Hazards to Personnel During Lifting Operations
This safety flash summarises BSEE examples of workers pinned or struck during offshore lifting. It presents recommendations on barricading hazardous areas and measures operators and contractors should consider, including careful tagline handling, suitable rigging, clear escape paths, weather monitoring, stopping uncontrolled lifts and maintaining communication.
- 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
High potential: dropped chain assembly
A 2.3 kg chain assembly fell 10 m during lowering, grazing a worker’s helmet without injury. Wind displaced a soft sling, whose fibres prevented the hook latch from locking. The flash highlights unsafe positioning, poor visibility and absent communication, recommending correct rigging placement, clear lifting areas and supervision.
- 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.
- 202313 Jul
Finger injury during shackle handling
A crew member suffered a left middle finger crush injury while removing a 35 tonne SWL shackle during pennant wire spooling. The flash identifies incorrect shackle size, absent last-minute risk assessment and failure to intervene, and recommends appropriate tools rather than hands to release heavy shackles.
- 202321 Jun
Davit hook failures
Two vessel incidents involved failed davit hooks: a workboat dropped into the sea without injuries, while a life raft hook retained its position despite a sheared screw. The workboat failure remained under investigation. Actions included suspending non-emergency operations, inspecting dismantled hook components and reviewing maintenance and annual inspection arrangements.
- 202321 Jun
Lifting chains parted – hydrogen embrittlement
Three lifting chains failed during a vessel demobilisation lift, leaving grillage suspended approximately 4 m above deck. It was lowered without injury. Analysis attributed failure to hydrogen embrittlement and corrosion cracking under tensile load. Replacement of the four-way bridle with slings and shackles enabled safe completion.
- 202321 Jun
Sheave became detached during lifting operations
A sheave detached during recovery of marine geophysical sensors and fell approximately 6 m to the deck, with nobody underneath. The flash identifies installation, change-management and verification shortcomings, including removed secondary retention. Actions included replacing the swivel connection, adding securing arrangements and improving equipment records and written instructions.
- 20233 May
Inspection notice from Crosby on certain products
Crosby’s inspection notice concerns hoist rings with missing retaining pins, allowing hinge pins to escape while unloaded. It describes outward prying or pulling and twisting checks on both hinge pins, acceptable movement, inspection marking, and removal from service for rings with inadequately secured pins.
- 20233 May
Uncontrolled movement of spreader bar
During preparations for subsea spool deployment, a spreader bar rotated and fell onto the deck and spool as rigging was raised after sea-fastening removal. A nearby rigger moved clear; nobody was injured. The flash identifies shortcomings in hazard communication, lifting sequence, change management and design risk review, and recommends task briefings and debriefs.
- 202320 Apr
Near Miss: Personnel nearly struck by rotating chain attached to flexible pipe
During a production flexible’s second-end transfer, residual torsion caused the pipe and an attached 16.5te chain to rotate, nearly striking two crew members. The flash identifies task inexperience, language barriers and procedural omissions, and discusses rigging removal, translated task documentation and restricted access to the pipelay system’s top module.
- 202313 Mar
Lift bag near miss
A lift bag escaped its intended rigging during spool over-boarding and was arrested by contingency rigging. The flash examines inappropriate attachment, undocumented rigging changes, unclear diver communications and task-generic procedures. Lessons emphasise single-person rigging accountability, task-specific instructions, reduced multitasking and thorough communication during personnel changes.
- 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.
- 20239 Feb
Dropped objects in dry dock
Two vessel dry-dock incidents involved a steering tube falling after chain-block slack caused shock loading, and a hydraulic cylinder pin cap sliding through an uncovered gap. The flash identifies shortcomings in task assessment, permit compliance and interfaces between work teams, emphasising detailed planning, clear responsibilities and coordinated control of work.
- 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.
- 20239 Feb
Uncertified lifting gear found in use
Shackles and other lifting gear were used aboard a vessel without available certification or inspection reports. Client-supplied equipment from a previous project had remained onboard and missed inspection. The flash describes quarantine of non-compliant gear and crew discussion addressing examination, testing, certification and unsupported colour coding.
- 2023
CHIRP Annual Digest 2023
An annual compilation of confidential maritime incident reports and analytical articles covering shipping, commercial fishing, ports and superyachts. Case commentaries examine navigation, mooring, lifting, equipment failures and enclosed-space entry. Wider discussions address safety culture, communication, seafarer wellbeing and fatigue, including an indicative watchkeeper fatigue assessment tool.
- 2023
CHIRP Maritime FEEDBACK 70 (Spring 2023)
This maritime incident digest examines single points of safety failure through reports of grounding, steering loss, unsafe fendering, towing difficulties, coercion, obstructed access, collision, maintenance injury, lifting failure and battery fire. Commentary addresses bridge teamwork, workload, isolation, inspection access and emergency arrangements, with practical lessons for vessel crews and managers.
- 2023
CHIRP Superyacht FEEDBACK 3 (Summer 2023)
Superyacht incident reports examine missing atmospheric testing equipment, tender lifting-eyebolt failure, an unsafe hull inspection dive, a fall following release of a securing shackle, and an anchoring near miss. Commentary addresses enclosed-space entry, lifting-point specifications, risk assessment, supervision, authority gradients and communication during anchor handling.
- 2023
MAIB Safety Digest 1/2023
This marine accident digest examines merchant shipping, commercial fishing and recreational boating casualties. Cases address navigation, machinery maintenance, lifting, fires and people overboard. Lessons emphasise clear control indications, practical recovery drills, effective firefighting arrangements and implementation of risk assessments, with reproduced fishing safety flyers discussing personal distress beacons.
- 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.
- 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.
- 202223 Nov
Connection failure during lifting operation
A tugger-line splice opened while a Vibro Lifting Tool was being positioned on a windfarm installation vessel. No injuries occurred, and an exclusion zone kept personnel clear. The flash discusses possible contributing factors, including unengineered connections and splice quality, alongside actions addressing competence, inspection, maintenance and suitable shackles.
- 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.
- 202210 Nov
USCG: Hidden corrosion on deck fittings can cause dangerous failures
This flash describes corroded D-ring securing straps failing during hatch-cover positioning aboard a vessel, with sling snap-back causing a severe head injury. It highlights missing testing and replacement records, concealed corrosion and ageing fittings. USCG recommendations address high-risk lifting-point identification, inspection, possible gauging or testing, safe lifting limits and scheduled maintenance.
- 202224 Oct
BSEE: Stored Energy in Slings Causes Multiple Injuries
This flash summarises BSEE reports of facial injuries to offshore personnel in the Gulf of Mexico from released energy in slings and a dislodged shackle. Recommendations for consideration address body positioning, rigging checks, work procedures, hazard awareness, stop-work rights, and increased training and supervision for inexperienced crew.
- 202224 Oct
Failure of slings during loading operations
A forklift transported a large tank suspended by nylon slings over rough ground at a land-based location. Two slings failed, dropping and damaging the tank without injuries. The flash identifies unprotected sharp edges and likely high dynamic loads, recommending edge protection and considering alternative lifting arrangements.
- 20223 Oct
LTI: person struck by uncontrolled swing in chain
An anchor chain struck a crew member’s safety boot during winch-assisted recovery over a vessel’s stern, causing a lost-time foot injury. The flash explains how an angled anchor riding on bridle shackles straightened over the roller and swung the chain. Lessons address risk assessment, crew positioning, operational routines and stopping unsafe work.
- 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.
- 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.
- 202226 Jul
Accidental release of free-fall lifeboat
A free-fall lifeboat fell approximately 14 m during a drill on an anchored bulk carrier, seriously injuring two crew members. The flash summarises findings on stress-corrosion cracking of sling crimp sleeves, uneven loading, unsecured occupants and absent additional restraint, alongside risks concerning sling inspection and divided supervisory attention.
- 202229 Jun
Stored Energy in Slings Causes Multiple Injuries
BSEE describes three Gulf of Mexico incidents in which stored energy in slings or a trapped shackle caused facial injuries. Two involved short-service employees. Operators and contractors are advised to consider stronger hazard communication, rigging procedures, body positioning, stop-work reinforcement, and additional training and supervision.
- 202210 Jun
Crosby – Important safety notice for 7/8″ 6.5t Anchor Shackles
This IMCA safety flash introduces a Crosby Group communication concerning 7/8-inch, 6.5-tonne anchor shackles. The supplied pages identify the notice and its publication date but contain no details of the underlying safety concern, affected products, incidents or recommended actions.
- 202212 May
IOGP: Dropped object with potential for injury – riser release
This flash describes premature anchor-tool release during recovery of a 16-inch riser from a jack-up drilling unit. The riser dropped approximately 14 metres, damaging the subsea wellhead sealing face without injuries. It reports pull-test and load-rating discrepancies and relays IOGP’s recommendation for continuous pressure energisation of the tool’s slip mechanism.
- 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.
- 20221 Apr
MSF: Unsafe Cargo Transfer Using Pallets
Two pallet cargo-transfer incidents involved deck-board failure under lifting-strop tension and a box falling after a pallet contacted nearby gangway slings. The flash identifies missed hazards in planning, risk assessment and toolbox talks, explains pallet load-distribution limitations, and recommends securing all lifted items.
- 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.
- 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.
- 202217 Feb
Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container - FIBC - Parted Straps Result in Near Misses
This alert describes three Gulf of Mexico incidents involving failed bulk-bag straps in September and October 2021. It discusses weather exposure, ultraviolet degradation and inadequate storage, and recommends considering capacity checks, pre-lift inspection, improved storage, alternative basket lifting and four-point rigging to reduce load failures.
- 202220 Jan
Master links came free from lifeboat release hooks, releasing the lifeboat
During annual checks alongside, an unmanned lifeboat launch ended with uncontrolled disconnection of both master links and subsequent release of its painters. Incorrectly orientated handles released the hook safety latches. The lifeboat sustained slight damage but no injuries occurred. Replacement links with sideways-orientated handles were specified.
- 202220 Jan
Three bolts sheared on a lifting trunnion
Following offshore renewables transition-piece installation, a 44 kg lifting-trunnion cover plate fell approximately 0.5 m when three securing screws sheared. The flash identifies an incorrect assumption about sideways loading in screw verification, records work-planning safeguards used, and calls for welding cover plates to the trunnions.
- 20219 Dec
ROV main lift failure
An ROV/TMS assembly fell to the seabed during a test-dive launch when its umbilical termination slipped through the socketing; nobody was harmed. Investigation identified inadequate cone size, uneven strand distribution, excessive docking force and resin-related shape changes. Corrective actions included a larger cone and adjustment of docking-head dampers.
- 20212 Dec
Crew member stopped unsafe cargo operations
A Second Officer stopped third-party dock-to-vessel cargo lifting after observing an uncoloured wire set and a metal cargo box without valid certification marks. Requested assurance was not provided, so the cargo remained on the quay and was quarantined. The flash highlights stop-work authority, knowledge of colour coding and equipment checks before lifting.
- 202118 Nov
Shackle failure during over-boarding of pennant wire and ballast chain
A shackle failed while ballast chain and pennant wire were being over-boarded from an anchor-handling winch. Released chain damaged nearby equipment, with nobody harmed. Evidence suggested the shackle nut became trapped in a chain link. The account identifies shortcomings in connection arrangements, maintenance, risk assessment and management-of-change documentation.
- 202128 Oct
Unexpected movement of conductor during diver dredging operations
During diver dredging before conductor cutting, a conductor toppled at a severance point, leaving an umbilical spanning between conductors. Crane restraint and vessel manoeuvring enabled release without injury or damage. The flash identifies incomplete task information and recommends conductor restraint, data verification, revised risk assessment and improved change management.
- 20211 Oct
Serious incident: topsides started swinging during lifting
A topsides became unstable and lifted prematurely while connected to pre-tensioned rigging, with personnel on the substructure and crane vessel. The flash identifies incomplete assessment of pre-tension, crane-tip movements and post-cut stability, and stresses expert verification and consideration of monopod stability sensitivity in future work.
- 20211 Oct
Snagged load, a sling snaps, dropped objects: persons injured
This safety flash revisits the ZEA Servant incident involving hatch-cover lifting gear. A shackle snagged during lifting, a fibre sling parted and the gear struck two crew members below. It identifies missing handling procedures, risk assessment and guidance on lift planning and fall zones, alongside previous snagging events.
- 202113 Sep
Failed lifting equipment: fatality during pipe erection activities
This safety flash describes a fatal incident at an oil refinery during pipe erection using two wire rope pulling hoists and pulleys. A pulley broke while the pipe was being lifted, allowing the rope and pipe to fall. The rope struck a worker on scaffolding, who later died in hospital.
- 202113 Sep
LTI: person injured when hook parted during lifting operations
Two crew members were injured when an inappropriate spring snap hook failed during lifting of a cable-installation plough depth skid weighing around 320 kg. They were calibrating beneath the load. Actions included modifying and testing the pad eye, training on qualified lifting gear, and revising risk assessment and supervision of crew positioning.
- 202119 Aug
Dropped object – unexpected release of spool
A spool fell to the seabed during relocation using a vessel crane and recertified lifting yoke. Unretracted stop knobs imposed unplanned forces, causing yoke failure. Findings highlight incomplete procedures, limited tooling expertise and misunderstood communications. Actions address tooling design, contractor competence, procedure interfaces and risk assessment.
- 202119 Aug
Lifting complex loads – offloading third party equipment
A rented cherry picker tilted against a vessel’s bulwarks during offloading in port, causing minor damage. The flash identifies shortcomings in crew handover, lift planning and supplier documentation, alongside a rigging clash. Actions address equipment-specific lift plans, certified rigging, vendor information and competent examination before use.
- 202110 Aug
Miscommunication of Load Weight Leads to a Lifting High Potential Lifting Near Miss
A cargo lift exceeded the crane’s rated capacity after intercom miscommunication led to an incorrect manifest weight; the basket tag also showed its empty weight. Wire rope damage was subsequently found. BSEE recommends considering improved shipment coordination, load marking, weight verification, pre-lift rigging checks and inspection and testing of overloaded cranes.
- 202116 Jun
Lifting frame detached from fast rescue craft (FRC)
A fast rescue craft’s lifting frame detached during recovery alongside a vessel, pulling a crew member upwards before they fell back into the boat with minor injuries. Investigation found cracks, delamination and potential anchoring weaknesses. The flash highlights inspection difficulties within the hull and suggests attention to crack detection in planned maintenance.
- 202127 Apr
Update to SF 08/21: Fatality – person crushed when secured material fell on him
Updated safety flash describing a fatal crushing during loose lifting gear inspection. Manipulation of a ratchet strap released vertically stored metal plates, trapping the inspection team leader against a drilling bail rack framework. Actions address changing task risks, sea-fastening security, safer storage, stop-work authority and contractor integration.
- 202116 Apr
Hand injury from falling object during lifting operations
A crewman suffered a hand injury when a cement hose swung after its lifting saddle handle broke during recovery between a rig and vessel. The sling had been attached incorrectly, which the deck crew noticed without intervening. The flash recommends stop-work intervention and regular inspection of loose lifting equipment.
- 20218 Apr
LTI during deck cargo operations
A crewman injured his right foot after instinctively holding lifting wires as vessel heave increased the crane-to-deck distance during pipe-bundle transfer. He let go from around almost a metre above deck and landed badly. The flash highlights discussing automatic responses to unexpected events through toolbox talks and risk assessment.
- 20216 Apr
Crushed By / Caught Between Fatality
This alert introduces a crushing or caught-between fatality during lifting-gear inspection on an offshore drilling unit. Inspectors checked slings, recorded serial numbers and applied colour coding. The supplied account describes five vertically stacked metal plates secured by one ratchet strap, with slings retained after crane landing.
- 2021Apr
MAIB Safety Digest 1/2021
A marine accident digest presenting separate lessons for merchant shipping, fishing vessels and recreational craft. Cases examine unsafe access, lifting gear, engine fires, navigation, capsize and flooding. Discussions address risk assessment, supervision, casualty recovery, mooring checks and navigation aids. Appendix coverage dates refer specifically to investigations started, rather than incident dates.
- 202122 Mar
Marine Riser Drops to Drill Floor
A riser joint slipped from a Running Riser Tool during transport to the drill floor and fell onto it. The alert records visual inspection and verification of locking before lifting, alongside a positive proximity-switch indication to drilling control. No personnel were in the red zone.
- 20214 Mar
Line of fire: deck tugger wire failure
During back-fill plough recovery, a chain sling failed under increasing tension and recoiling rigging narrowly missed deck personnel. The flash identifies unclear communication of a changed hauling method, uncertain operational responsibilities and failure to follow safe-zone requirements. Actions address toolbox talks, procedural compliance, management of change and shared understanding of tensioned-line hazards.
- 202111 Feb
Rigging failure during riser recovery – soft slings parted
During riser recovery at sea, a 3.8-tonne section fell approximately 2.5 m onto the deck after sharp deadman-anchor edges cut its soft slings. Personnel remained behind barriers. The flash recommends wire rope slings, subject to a risk-assessed exception, and consideration of rounded anchors or welded pad eyes.
- 20212 Feb
LTI: Stored energy – rigger injured leg working on quayside
A rigger suffered a significant lower-left-leg injury during night-time quayside lifting and vessel demobilisation. Identified factors included an accepted risky forklift method for moving slings, blocked walkways, restricted driver visibility, removed high-visibility clothing, reduced lighting, absent port induction and poorly controlled simultaneous activities. The flash encourages stopping work when required.
- 202119 Jan
Lifeboat wire rope failure
A lifeboat fell and overturned during a five-yearly 110% load test after its forward fall wire slipped through reused bulldog clips. No personnel were aboard and no injuries were reported. The flash examines termination preparation and torque deficiencies, recommends competent personnel, and suggests considering asymmetrical wedge sockets.
- 20215 Jan
Stop work authority enforced – unsafe conditions, no appropriate lifting gear available
A master cancelled a planned aviation fuel tank collection after finding the platform landing unsuitable for an AHTS vessel and appropriate heavy-lift gear unavailable. The flash highlights stakeholder communication, leadership by example and crew authority to stop operations when risks cannot be controlled to a reasonably practicable level.