Investigation Report
Crush incident involving a falling hatch cover on general cargo vessel SMN Explorer with loss of 1 life
Crush incident involving a falling hatch cover on general cargo vessel SMN Explorer with loss of 1 life
- MAIB
- Investigation Report
- Dropped ObjectsLine of Fire
- Crushing and pinch pointsDropped objectsLeadership and safety cultureRisk management
- Lifting operations
- CraneLifting accessories
- Operating and work proceduresOperational supervisionPositive retention and reliable securingPreventive maintenance
- Marine industry
- Port and quaysideVessel
Summary
This investigation examines a fatal hatch-cover crushing on SMN Explorer at Alexandra Dock, King’s Lynn. The crewman climbed the open cover after its locking pins were removed, before crane support was established. Analysis addresses inadequate procedures, supervision, lifting-equipment maintenance and safety culture, with recommendations to redesign access arrangements and improve fleet management.
Classifications: Crushing and pinch points; crush hazards; pinch points.
Classifications: Dropped objects; falling objects; DROPS.
Classifications: Leadership and safety culture; safety culture; safety leadership.
Classifications: Risk management; risk evaluation.
Classifications: Lifting operations; load lifting; hoisting.
Classifications: Crane; cranes.
Classifications: Lifting accessories; lifting gear; rigging gear.
Classifications: Operating and work procedures.
Classifications: Operational supervision.
Classifications: Positive retention and reliable securing.
Classifications: Preventive maintenance; preventative maintenance; planned maintenance.
Classifications: Marine industry; shipping industry; maritime sector.
Classifications: Port and quayside; quayside; harbour; harbor.
Classifications: Vessel; aboard ship; onboard vessel.
Themes: dropped objects, line of fire.