Safety Flash
Failure of natural fibre rope in embarkation ladder
Failure of natural fibre rope in embarkation ladder
- IMCA
- Safety Flash
- IMCA SF 07/21
- Evacuation, Escape and RescueInspection and Maintenance
- Mechanical failure
- Inspection and maintenance
- Ladder
- Competence and trainingPre-use checksPreventive maintenance
- Marine industry
Summary
Inspection of a lifeboat embarkation ladder revealed natural fibre rope failure at its securing thimble. Abrasion arose from contact between the rope eye and a metal deck strong point, with insufficient anchor-point clearance. The flash recommends scheduled inspections, checks before and after use, internal rope examination and assessment of damaged components.
Classifications: Mechanical failure; equipment failure.
Classifications: Inspection and maintenance; asset inspection; equipment maintenance.
Classifications: Ladder; ladders.
Classifications: Competence and training; competency assurance; safety training.
Classifications: Pre-use checks; pre-use inspection.
Classifications: Preventive maintenance; preventative maintenance; planned maintenance.
Classifications: Marine industry; shipping industry; maritime sector.
Summary
Inspection of a lifeboat embarkation ladder identified that the fibre rope at the anchor point securing thimble was worn through due to incorrect connection, creating the potential for ladder failure on deployment.
IMCA SF 07/21. Themes: evacuation, escape and rescue, inspection and maintenance.