Transport Malta reports of a serious injury of a crew member during cargo hatch cover operations in the port of Antwerp.
What happened
On 28 June 2021, the crew on board a cargo vessel were opening her hatch covers to discharge a cargo of marble chips in bulk, at the port of Antwerp.
The hatch covers were being opened by the chief mate who was operating the gantry crane
with the master and an ablebodied seafarer (AB) assisting the chief mate with the positioning of the gantry hooks and hatch covers.
All three persons were in radio contact and the opening of the five aft hatch covers went smoothly. During the positioning of the final forward hatch cover, the (AB) became momentarily trapped between the forward bulwark and the gantry crane resulting to serious crush injuries to his chest.
Considering the actions taken by the Company, one recommendation has been made by the MSIU, addressing gantry crane safe operations.
Safety actions taken
Following an internal review of the events, the vessel updated its ‘Risk Assessment’ on gantry crane operations. It also adopted a formal operations procedure that was based on the outcome of the accident with the AB. This procedure was implemented through a safety meeting with a copy placed on the notice board of the ship’s office.
Recommendations
Taking into consideration the safety actions taken, the company is recommended to:
12/2022_R1 analyse the implementation of effective means to prevent crew members from coming in proximity of the moving gantry crane and whether this could be achieved in conjunction with the relocation/installation of additional emergency stops.
Did you subscribe to our daily Newsletter?
It’s Free Click here to Subscribe!
Source: Transport Malta
