- Jumping from vessels to the quay often results in serious injuries, including broken bones.
- Many accidents occur during mooring operations, especially when crew members hurry or take shortcuts.
- Unsafe methods of embarking and disembarking, especially in harsh weather or tidal conditions, significantly increase the risk of accidents.
Accidents involving crew members or others jumping from vessels to the quay are frequent. Despite the temptation to save time, this dangerous practice often leads to broken bones or other injuries. In 2021, the Norwegian Maritime Authority (NMA) recorded at least five such accidents, all resulting in serious injuries like broken ankles and heels, requiring sick leave, reports SDIR.
Importance of Safe Mooring Practices
Many incidents occur during mooring operations or when crew members rush. Taking shortcuts, such as skipping the proper rigging of ladders or gangways, increases the risk of falls.
The gap between the vessel and the quay can be deceptive, and even when moored, the vessel might move, causing crew members to land hard on the quay or fall into the sea, potentially leading to drowning.
In winter, icy quays present a serious risk, especially when covered by snow. The slippery surface is hard to detect, and sand is not always applied to make the area safer. Weather conditions can change rapidly along the coast, further increasing the danger.
Dangerous Shortcuts During Crew Changes
During minor changes, some crews may rely on thrusters to keep the vessel close to the quay. It allows the crew members to jump ashore without using a ladder or gangway. This shortcut, though time-saving, can lead to serious accidents.
For smaller vessels, including high-speed and passenger boats, a gangway or ladder should always be used for embarking and disembarking, even when it’s just one person.
Even when transferring small goods by hand, safety procedures must be followed as strictly as they are for passengers. Skipping these steps can lead to avoidable injuries.
Dealing With Tidal Ranges
Where the tidal range is significant, improvised solutions are often observed to bridge the gap between the vessel and the quay.
It’s crucial to plan for such tidal variations by considering adjustable quays or other safer access points, ensuring the vessel remains safely accessible at all times.
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Source: SDIR
