Safety Flash
Near miss: Winch wire snagged and released suddenly
Near miss: Winch wire snagged and released suddenly
- IMCA
- Safety Flash
- IMCA SF 05/19
- Crane and RiggingLifting OperationsLine of Fire
- Human factorsLine of fire
- DrillingLifting operations
- WinchWire rope
- Operating and work proceduresPre-use checksRisk assessment
- Onshore facility
Summary
A land-based drilling near miss involved a winch-wire thimble snagging on the rig chassis while the mast was raised. Increasing tension bent the thimble, releasing the wire and hoist plug near the driller. Lessons address safe wire positioning, snagging checks, routine-task complacency and reviews of procedures and risk assessments.
Classifications: Human factors; human performance; ergonomics.
Classifications: Line of fire; struck-by hazards.
Classifications: Drilling; well drilling.
Classifications: Lifting operations; load lifting; hoisting.
Classifications: Winch; winches.
Classifications: Wire rope; steel wire rope.
Classifications: Operating and work procedures.
Classifications: Pre-use checks; pre-use inspection.
Classifications: Risk assessment; hazard assessment.
Classifications: Onshore facility; onshore plant.
Summary
A snagged winch wire released suddenly while raising a drill mast, creating a serious potential struck-by hazard.
IMCA SF 05/19. Themes: crane and rigging, lifting operations, line of fire.