Dropped object awareness

The MSF has published safety alert 16-19 on dropped object awareness. The contents of the safety alert are based on a submission from one vessel owner.

The issue of dropped objects and potential dropped objects remains a persistent problem within the offshore, renewables and marine contracting industries. This vessel owner noted that during the whole of 2015, they had received 19 dropped or potential dropped object incidents. However, by mid-Q3 2016, the same vessel owner had already received a total of 18 reports – and this increase took place in spite of reduced exposure due to the downturn.

Members may wish to look closely at cargo and loading operations and reiterate that there can be no relaxing of vigilance against complacency. The following pictures are all items from back-loaded cargo and all are over the weight necessary to cause a fatal injury if they were to fall and strike a crew member.

Actions taken/recommendations:

• Continued observance of the highest standard of good seamanship in remaining well clear of lifts in a safe area until the cargo is landed on the deck and it is clear to approach;
• All dropped or potential dropped objects should be reported as soon as identified;
• Continued sharing of lessons and engagement with all stakeholders to encourage proper identification of causes of dropped object incidents.

The full MSF safety alert can be found at marinesafetyforum.org/images/msf-safety-alert-16.19.pdf. Further information on dropped objects is also available from:

• marinesafetyforum.org
• dropsonline.org
• onshoreoffshorecargo.com

IMCA publishes safety promotional material on dropped objects, including a pocket safety card, poster and DVD.