Safety Flash
Near miss: Incorrectly set lifeboat hook
Near miss: Incorrectly set lifeboat hook
- IMCA
- Safety Flash
- IMCA SF 24/20
- Evacuation, Escape and RescueInspection and MaintenanceMachinery and Equipment
- Mechanical failure
- Inspection and maintenanceLifting operations
- LifeboatLifting accessories
- Contractor managementFunctional testingOperating and work proceduresStop-work authority
- Marine industry
Summary
A lifeboat drill exposed a misaligned forward release hook whose padlock indicator falsely showed closure. Recovery was paused and completed without incident after both hooks were confirmed secure. Findings identified incorrect assembly and a 35° release setting rather than the required 55°. Actions addressed hook checks, contractor qualifications and adherence to maintenance procedures.
Classifications: Mechanical failure; equipment failure.
Classifications: Inspection and maintenance; asset inspection; equipment maintenance.
Classifications: Lifting operations; load lifting; hoisting.
Classifications: Lifeboat; survival craft.
Classifications: Lifting accessories; lifting gear; rigging gear.
Classifications: Contractor management; contractor assurance.
Classifications: Functional testing; function test.
Classifications: Operating and work procedures.
Classifications: Stop-work authority; stop work; stop-work intervention.
Classifications: Marine industry; shipping industry; maritime sector.
Summary
During a routine launch and recovery drill, the lifeboat crew became concerned that the forward hook was not engaging correctly despite the ‘padlock’ symbol indicating correct closure.
IMCA SF 24/20. Themes: evacuation, escape and rescue, inspection and maintenance, machinery and equipment.