Lessons Learned: Serious Crew Injury Onboard Bulk Carrier

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Transport Malta reports a serious injury to a crew member aboard a bulk carrier in the South Atlantic Ocean.

What happened

On 31 March 2021, the bulk carrier was en route to Agadir, Morocco. At about 1345, the bosun working in one of the cargo holds, lost balance and fell from a height. He remained conscious but in severe head, back and chest pains. He was administered first aid and eventually air lifted for further treatment.

The safety investigation revealed that just before the fall, the bosun’s safety harness was not secured to a fixed point, whilst he was shifting his position.

Considering the actions taken by the vessel’s managers, the MSIU has issued no recommendations.

Safety actions taken

During the safety investigation, the Company had taken the following safety actions:

  • issued a Company Circular to all fleet vessels concerning this accident;
  • the master was required to hold additional training on PPE and the chief officer instructed to check all safety measures prior to assigning tasks;
  • all masters, chief engineers and chief officers will be tutored on the usage of PPE on board during onshore familiarisation;
  • senior officers were informed to instruct crew members on the use of safety harness with two hooks, when working aloft.

Recommendations

In view of the action taken by the Company, no recommendations have been made by the MSIU.

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Source: Transport Malta