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Fast rescue boats (Zodiac)

One of our members has recently reported an incident on of its vessels, whereby a rigger crushed his hand between the zodiac and the structure. A similar incident was known to have happened on another company’s vessel, where the rigger also received a hand injury.

The similarity between the two incidents is striking, since both involved a zodiac connecting lines, which is a routine job carried out by experienced crew.

The company concerned noted that the majority of incidents on its vessels happen when:

  1. doing routine jobs;
  2. using experienced crew (mainly riggers); and
  3. using standard equipment and methods.

The company has noted the following lessons learned from the incident:

  1. Be alert;
  2. Think before you act;
  3. Do not take anything for granted;
  4. If necessary, perform a job safety analysis.

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 [email protected] 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.

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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.