Safety Flash
High potential: spontaneous opening of hydraulic release shackle (HRS) pin
High potential: spontaneous opening of hydraulic release shackle (HRS) pin
- IMCA
- Safety Flash
- IMCA SF 24/24
- Control of WorkCrane and RiggingLifting OperationsManagement of Change
- Dropped objectsMechanical failure
- Lifting operationsRigging
- CraneLifting accessories
- Management of changeOperating and work proceduresRisk assessmentStop-work authority
- Marine industry
- Vessel
Summary
A hydraulic release shackle opened during vessel lifting operations, dropping approximately 4–5 metres and remaining suspended by its hydraulic hose. Nobody was harmed. Subsequent checks identified damage to two shackles. Findings highlighted an unassessed change to the hydraulic set-up, procedural non-compliance and inadequate communication; lessons emphasise change control and stopping work when uncertain.
Classifications: Dropped objects; falling objects; DROPS.
Classifications: Mechanical failure; equipment failure.
Classifications: Lifting operations; load lifting; hoisting.
Classifications: Rigging; slinging.
Classifications: Crane; cranes.
Classifications: Lifting accessories; lifting gear; rigging gear.
Classifications: Management of change; MOC; change management.
Classifications: Operating and work procedures.
Classifications: Risk assessment; hazard assessment.
Classifications: Stop-work authority; stop work; stop-work intervention.
Classifications: Marine industry; shipping industry; maritime sector.
Classifications: Vessel; aboard ship; onboard vessel.
Summary
During lifting operations on a vessel, a hydraulic release shackle pin opened on its own.
IMCA SF 24/24. Themes: control of work, crane and rigging, lifting operations, management of change.