Notice: Function _load_textdomain_just_in_time was called incorrectly. Translation loading for the the-events-calendar domain was triggered too early. This is usually an indicator for some code in the plugin or theme running too early. Translations should be loaded at the init action or later. Please see Debugging in WordPress for more information. (This message was added in version 6.7.0.) in /home/storm/sites/dev-imca-int-com-1/public/wp-includes/functions.php on line 6114

Notice: Function _load_textdomain_just_in_time was called incorrectly. Translation loading for the broken-link-checker domain was triggered too early. This is usually an indicator for some code in the plugin or theme running too early. Translations should be loaded at the init action or later. Please see Debugging in WordPress for more information. (This message was added in version 6.7.0.) in /home/storm/sites/dev-imca-int-com-1/public/wp-includes/functions.php on line 6114

Notice: Function _load_textdomain_just_in_time was called incorrectly. Translation loading for the woocommerce-eu-vat-number domain was triggered too early. This is usually an indicator for some code in the plugin or theme running too early. Translations should be loaded at the init action or later. Please see Debugging in WordPress for more information. (This message was added in version 6.7.0.) in /home/storm/sites/dev-imca-int-com-1/public/wp-includes/functions.php on line 6114
Webbing strop failure during transponder recovery - DEV imca
Skip to content

Webbing strop failure during transponder recovery

A DSV was conducting diving operations recovering a previously installed transponder array. During the transponder recovery the diver connected the transponder beacon’s webbing strop (supplied with the transponder) and a separate vessel strop on the tripod stand to the crane hook.

The load was lifted off the bottom and the divers moved clear under the vessel. The crane lifted the load 10m then slewed to stern and carried on coming up. Upon arrival at surface the transponder beacon was found to be missing. Due to compliance with safe crane and diving operations, there was no personal injury or subsea asset damage. The transponder beacon was subsequently located close to original lifting position.

In the resulting investigation, the stitching on the webbing strop on the transponder beacon was found to have failed. The webbing strop had not been subjected to certification or maintenance. In communication with the supplier, the hire company stated that the webbing strop was not supplied for lifting purposes but only for general handling.

The company’s immediate actions were:

  • Issue of a safety alert;
  • Removal of any hire company supplied webbing strops from all transponder beacons;
  • All future transponder deployment and recovery operations are to be carried out with strict adherence to company procedure;
  • All sites are to carry out a safety brief to make personnel aware of this incident;
  • Site management are to reiterate with personnel the requirement to carry out pre-use visual inspection of lifting equipment;

The company has also noted the following longer term actions:

  • Discussion with transponder supplier of suitable lifting equipment arrangements;
  • Issue of a company work instruction to identify suitable lifting arrangements for transponders;
  • Sharing of lessons learned with industry, through IMCA.

Safety Event

Published: 2 July 2003
Download: IMCA SF 07/03

IMCA Safety Flashes
Submit a Report

IMCA Safety Flashes summarise key safety matters and incidents, allowing lessons to be more easily learnt for the benefit of all. The effectiveness of the IMCA Safety Flash system depends on Members sharing information and so avoiding repeat incidents. Please consider adding safetyreports@imca-int.com to your internal distribution list for safety alerts or manually submitting information on incidents you consider may be relevant. All information is anonymised or sanitised, as appropriate.

IMCA’s store terms and conditions (https://www.imca-int.com/legal-notices/terms/) apply to all downloads from IMCA’s website, including this document.

IMCA makes every effort to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the data contained in the documents it publishes, but IMCA shall not be liable for any guidance and/or recommendation and/or statement herein contained. The information contained in this document does not fulfil or replace any individual’s or Member's legal, regulatory or other duties or obligations in respect of their operations. Individuals and Members remain solely responsible for the safe, lawful and proper conduct of their operations.