Crane malfunction during lifting operations

A member has reported an incident in which there was a crane failure during lifting operations. The incident occurred when a platform supply vessel (PSV) was working with a platform crane. The crane lifted the basket (filled with 5m pipes) to crash rail level, but couldn’t manage to take it further. The crane got stuck in hoist mode for a moment and later the hook with the tilted basket landed and rested on top of another basket.

The crew, who were holding the tag line, moved swiftly to safety. After unhooking the lift and steadying the tilted basket with wedges, the PSV retreated from the 500m zone. Later the PSV came back in and the platform crane was used to establish the basket properly on deck.

Our member’s investigation revealed the following and Corrective Action was taken:

• There was an equipment malfunction on the platform crane;
• The Master immediately informed the crane operator to place the basket back on deck and arranged for it to be secured.

Our member noted the following:

• It is important that the correct load is mentioned on the cargo manifest at the time of loading the cargo at base;
• The platform crane should be properly maintained and able lift the cargo manifested for it.

Members may wish to refer to the following incidents (search words: crane, stuck):

• Near-miss during lifting operations
• Winch brake failure