Manual handling tasks on commercial and fishing vessels present a high risk of injury, particularly in challenging weather conditions. These risks stem from activities like lifting, carrying, and moving heavy objects, reports Steam Ship Mutual.
About Manual Handling
Manual handling, which includes activities like lifting, carrying, and moving items, is a common source of musculoskeletal injuries on commercial and fishing vessels.
- Adverse weather significantly increases the risk of these injuries, especially on fishing and smaller vessels.
- Incorrect handling can lead to various injuries, including sprains, fractures, and long-term musculoskeletal disorders.
- Slips, trips, and falls are also more likely during improper handling in bad weather.
The Club has seen numerous injury claims related to incorrect manual handling of items like mooring ropes, fishing gear, cargo, and heavy equipment. They remind members and crews of the importance of using proper handling techniques to avoid these risks.
Possible Causes
Manual handling is a routine part of shipboard life, but the constant motion of vessels adds to the injury risks. Proper training, risk assessments, and adherence to safe handling procedures are essential.
- Repetitive tasks can lead to crew complacency, increasing the chance of accidents.
- Other factors contributing to injuries include high-force repetitive work, poor posture, vibration exposure, and handling unstable or difficult loads.
- Adverse weather conditions significantly elevate the risk of slips, trips, and falls during manual handling.
Preventive Actions
To prevent injuries from improper manual handling, the following simple steps should be taken:
- Minimize Manual Handling: Use lifting equipment whenever possible.
- Conduct Thorough Planning: Perform a full risk assessment, hold a toolbox meeting, and plan the operation beforehand.
- Create a Work Plan: Include details about the load (weight, shape, etc.), physical effort required, duration, and ensure the crew is trained and fit.
- Know Personal Limits: Crew members should understand and respect their own physical capabilities.
- Provide Adequate Supervision: Ensure appropriate supervision during the operation.
- Communicate Effectively: Maintain clear communication among all crew members.
- Consider the Working Environment:
- Account for ship movement.
- Address confined spaces.
- Note location hazards (height, hot/cold surfaces, edges, obstacles, slippery decks).
- Consider temperature extremes.
- Factor in weather conditions.
- Wear Appropriate PPE: Use clothing and personal protective equipment suitable for the conditions.
Did you subscribe to our daily Newsletter?
It’s Free Click here to Subscribe!
Source: Steam Ship Mutual
