According to the Hong Kong Marine Department, a fatal accident occurred on board a bulk carrier during cargo hold cleaning operations. The incident highlights safety risks associated with working at height inside cargo spaces.
What Happened
While en route to load bulk cargo, crew members were assigned to clean residues inside a cargo hold using a portable ladder. The bosun climbed the ladder to clean the upper section of the hold, assisted by a deck cadet who was stabilizing the ladder. During the task, the bosun suddenly fell from the ladder to the tank top below. Despite emergency medical treatment on board and subsequent transfer ashore, the bosun was later declared dead.
Why It Happened
The accident occurred due to multiple safety shortcomings. The crew lacked proper shipboard training in cargo hold cleaning and safe practices for working at height. No toolbox meeting was held before the operation, and the Chief Officer did not provide on-site supervision as required under the Safety Management System. Furthermore, the permit-to-work and risk assessment processes were not effectively implemented, and the crew failed to comply with the “Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seafarers,” particularly regarding the use of portable ladders and the securing of lifelines connected to safety harnesses.
Actions Taken
In response, the report emphasized the need to strengthen shipboard training and ensure that risk assessments and permits-to-work are carried out effectively for tasks involving working at height. It also required that toolbox meetings be conducted prior to cargo hold cleaning, with designated officers supervising the work on site. Additionally, the report called for strict adherence to the Code of Safe Working Practices, especially in relation to ladder use and securing safety harness lifelines, and reinforced the importance of complying with company instructions and Safety Management System requirements.
Lessons Learned
- Always conduct a thorough risk assessment and issue permits before working at height.
- Ensure toolbox meetings and officer supervision are in place for cargo hold cleaning.
- Use portable ladders correctly and secure safety harness lifelines at all times.
- Strengthen crew training to ensure full understanding and compliance with safe working practices.
- Management must verify that SMS procedures are followed consistently on board.
Did you subscribe to our Daily newsletter?
It’s Free! Click here to Subscribe!
Source: HONG KONG MERCHANT SHIPPING
