Activity
Anchor Handling
Handling and deploying anchors and associated lines.
Documents
- 202615 Apr
LTI – crew member squeezed between buoy and cargo rail
An anchor-handling crew member was trapped against a cargo rail when releasing a remaining lashing allowed a partly interconnected buoy to spring back. The flash describes crane positioning, rescue using a tugger line and aft capstan, and helicopter evacuation. Lessons emphasise checking residual securing and stored energy before moving complex loads.
- 202518 Dec
BSEE: Anchor-handling causes damage to subsea equipment and triggers gas release
An anchor wire snagged a subsea well during recovery by a dive support vessel, subsequently detaching an annulus valve and releasing gas. The flash summarises BSEE findings on inadequate planning, coordination and emergency preparation, with recommendations for consideration covering readiness checks, change management, communication and current-aware anchor-handling plans.
- 202530 Sep
BSEE Safety Alert 508 -Review anchor-handling plans now Incident damages subsea equipment triggers gas release
A diver support vessel recovering bow anchors snagged a subsea well with an anchor wire. Attempts to free it detached the annulus valve, releasing gas. The alert identifies deficient planning, contractor coordination and emergency readiness, and recommends that operators and contractors consider stronger pre-mobilisation checks, SIMOPS arrangements and anchor-handling plans.
- 2025Apr
CHIRP Superyacht FEEDBACK 9 (April 2025)
This superyacht incident digest examines a post-dry-dock fire, unsuitable crew accommodation during repairs, drug use, inadequate provision for working aloft, a falling crane hook, fatigued anchoring and unrecognised enclosed spaces. Commentary addresses safety culture, equipment readiness, familiarisation, design feedback and atmospheric testing.
- 202417 Dec
LTI: fall from height during anchor chain handling operation
A bosun on an anchor handling tug supply vessel fell through a gap between chain barriers while passing a tugger wire, landing 2.75 m below and sustaining fractures. The flash identifies unstable footing and inadequate task assessment, and recommends secure access, detailed risk assessment, crew communication and stronger supervision.
- 2024Aug
CHIRP Superyacht FEEDBACK 7 (August 2024)
Six superyacht reports examine tender lifting-point failure, fouled anchors near a lee shore, an open shell door, a fall during window cleaning and unsafe diving arrangements. Commentary emphasises thorough risk assessment, properly completed work permits, reliable equipment, crew communication and isolation during underwater maintenance.
- 202316 May
Close approach of AHTS vessel to offshore rig
During anchor handling, a sliding chaser collar pulled an AHTS vessel towards a rig’s mooring line. A disabled bow thruster initially prevented corrective manoeuvring; restoring all thrusters enabled safe withdrawal. The flash identifies uncommunicated machinery shutdown and missing control-transfer checks, and describes propulsion checks, bridge approval requirements and revised work instructions.
- 2023
CHIRP Superyacht FEEDBACK 3 (Summer 2023)
Superyacht incident reports examine missing atmospheric testing equipment, tender lifting-eyebolt failure, an unsafe hull inspection dive, a fall following release of a securing shackle, and an anchoring near miss. Commentary addresses enclosed-space entry, lifting-point specifications, risk assessment, supervision, authority gradients and communication during anchor handling.
- 20222 Dec
Failure of a suspended buoy on workboat Annie E with 1 person injured
Investigation of a grid buoy failure that injured a deckhand aboard Annie E at a Scottish fish farm. It examines worn components, a missing washer, unsuitable lifting arrangements, inspection omissions and exposure beneath a suspended load. Manufacturer instructions, work procedures, induction and fall prevention are assessed; subsequent actions prompted no recommendations.
- 20223 Oct
LTI: fractured finger during anchor handling
A crew member fractured his fingertip while attempting to remove a conical pin from a Kenter link during anchor handling. The flash describes incorrect pin removal, gaps in task knowledge, insufficient supervision and ineffective risk assessment. Lessons emphasise training, supervision and communicating risks to new personnel.
- 20223 Oct
LTI: person struck by uncontrolled swing in chain
An anchor chain struck a crew member’s safety boot during winch-assisted recovery over a vessel’s stern, causing a lost-time foot injury. The flash explains how an angled anchor riding on bridle shackles straightened over the roller and swung the chain. Lessons address risk assessment, crew positioning, operational routines and stopping unsafe work.
- 202214 Jul
Man overboard from anchor handler tug
During a grapnel run on an anchor handling tug, a T-bar hook snagged a crew member’s life jacket while chain was being overboarded, leading to a fall into the water. The crew recovered him within three minutes. Lessons address rescue drills, subcontractor oversight, snag-point removal and safer overboarding methods.
- 202118 Nov
Shackle failure during over-boarding of pennant wire and ballast chain
A shackle failed while ballast chain and pennant wire were being over-boarded from an anchor-handling winch. Released chain damaged nearby equipment, with nobody harmed. Evidence suggested the shackle nut became trapped in a chain link. The account identifies shortcomings in connection arrangements, maintenance, risk assessment and management-of-change documentation.
- 202120 May
MAIB: Anchor failures
This safety flash summarises MAIB findings on cruise-ship anchor losses during prolonged anchoring off the UK’s south coast. It highlights cautious operational limits, timely weighing of anchors, sheltering from forecast strong winds, varying cable scope, checking windlass brakes, contingency planning and assessment before equipment returns to normal service.
- 202130 Mar
Safety warning about multiple cruise ship anchor failures
MAIB examines multiple cruise ship anchor failures during prolonged anchoring off the UK south coast. Findings highlight accelerated wear and operation beyond anchoring system design limits. Safety lessons address cautious weather limits, rotating anchors, varying cable scope, brake checks, contingency planning and assessment of equipment suitability.
- 202119 Jan
Near miss: uncontrolled movement of mooring chain
A near miss during vessel chain laying involved uncontrolled movement of heavy bottom chain after a circulation pump tripped and the chain lifter lost holding force. The flash identifies incomplete safety systems, inadequate project-specific preparation and missing barriers, with lessons on documentation, technical safeguards, training and familiarisation.
- 202026 Nov
Rigging failure – Clump weight dropped to seabed
A weather buoy’s 2.6-tonne clump weight dropped to the seabed after a chain link failed during deployment. The selected weight exceeded the design’s 450 kg allowance, and the chain was unsuitable for lifting. The flash recommends formal management of change, thorough lift planning and checks of rigging certification and suitability.
- 202012 Aug
Grounding and recovery of container feeder vessel Thea II and tug Svitzer Josephine
Investigation of the grounding and recovery of Thea II and Svitzer Josephine in the Humber following propulsion failure. It examines anchor deployment, tug positional awareness, navigation practices and salvage delays arising from managers’ limited situational awareness. The report also analyses discarded towline fouling and recommends reviewing the ship manager’s emergency response arrangements.
- 201912 Nov
Grounding of bulk carrier Kuzma Minin at Falmouth
This flash summarises Kuzma Minin’s grounding in Falmouth Bay after its anchor dragged in strong winds. Anchor fouling interrupted attempts to put to sea. Financial constraints influenced the decision to remain anchored, while absent P&I insurance hindered salvage arrangements. Lessons emphasise adequate vessel resources and insurance.
- 201930 Sep
Loss of rig anchor wire from vessel Karm Fork
During a rig move, accidental operation of the wrong Karm Fork emergency release allowed anchor wire and chain to slip into the sea. Preliminary findings identified communication and procedural failures. Actions included revising the operations manual and task risk assessment, relocating CCTV, and reiterating that commands must come from the Master.
- 201931 Jul
Grounding of bulk carrier Kuzma Minin
Investigation of Kuzma Minin’s grounding in Falmouth Bay after its anchor dragged in strong winds and swell. It examines limited fuel and lubricating oil supplies, distraction from a fouled anchor, and harbour-led refloating. The report also analyses how absent insurance and owner support complicated salvage arrangements and financial responsibility.
- 201821 Dec
High potential near miss: anchor brake failure
A potentially fatal dry-docking near miss involved an anchor brake spindle failure following anchor recovery. Seized linkages imposed bending forces on the spindle; the devil’s claw opened and an unsecured guillotine failed to arrest the cable. Actions addressed inspection, lubrication, replacement retention arrangements and exclusion zones.
- 201831 Oct
Dragging anchor and subsequent collisions by general cargo vessel Celtic Spirit
Investigation of Celtic Spirit dragging anchor in heavy weather on the River Humber and colliding with two anchored vessels. It examines insufficient anchor cable, delayed recognition of movement, engine readiness and warning communications, alongside anchorage allocation. Fleet procedures and port arrangements were revised; no recommendations were made.
- 20189 May
Grounding of general cargo vessel Islay Trader
Investigation of Islay Trader’s grounding off Margate after dragging anchor and attempting to reposition. It examines insufficient anchor cable for tidal conditions, neglected position monitoring, bridge workload and failure to seek the master’s assistance. Paper-chart navigation, radar monitoring and Schottel controls are discussed, with recommendations addressing anchorage planning and watchkeeping standards.
- 201815 Mar
Collision between general cargo ship Saga Sky and barge Stema Barge II resulting in subsea power cables damage
Investigates the collision of Saga Sky and Stema Barge II off Kent during severe weather, with anchor dragging and severed interconnector cables. Examines outdated anchorage charts, cable burial and condition monitoring, ship handling and emergency towage availability. Recommendations address nautical information, heavy-weather procedures and emergency response capability.
- 201721 Dec
Finger injury while using a crowbar to try to shift a large shackle
A crew member injured his right ring finger when a crowbar slipped during shackle connection in anchor handling. The flash identifies inadequate pinch-point recognition and improper tool use, recommending capstans or tugger winches for repositioning and manual work only once rigging is safe and free of residual tension.
- 20179 Jun
Both anchors lost due to chain fouling
A vessel lost both anchors after their chains fouled during three days at anchor off the coast. External assistance failed to clear them in the prevailing weather and sea conditions. The flash identifies inadequate team discussion and ineffective anchor watch, recommending improved communication, planning and risk assessment.
- 20173 May
Lost time injury (LTI): Deadman anchor (DMA) toppled over, injuring a diver
A diver suffered a fractured fibula and torn ankle ligament when a deadman anchor overturned during holdback rigging for closing-spool installation. The substituted weight had unsuitable geometry and had not been checked for suitability. The flash examines risk assessment and change-management failures, with actions addressing rigging, procedures and supervision.
- 201629 Nov
Person hit by mud/clay during anchor handling operations
During anchor recovery, a marine representative checking a shackle identification number was struck on the back by a 50 kg lump of mud/clay from the anchor. He fell, spraining his ankle and experiencing back pain. The flash stresses stopping unsafe acts and notes that root causes were not reported.
- 201612 Oct
Near-miss: Person almost fell from height during anchor chain preparations
A worker nearly fell into a moon pool chain locker during preparations to load anchor chain after its hatch cover was temporarily removed. He caught the hatch edge and called for help. The account identifies absent barriers, inadequate communication of the opening, and unsuitable and insufficient risk assessment and planning.
- 20152 Oct
Crewman struck by sling during anchor handling operations
Following an anchor transfer between vessels, moderate swell moved the receiving vessel’s stern downwards, rapidly tightening a sling and striking a crewman. The flash identifies adverse sea conditions and limited situational awareness, and describes revised procedures requiring rigging crews to use helmets with headset communication to the bridge.
- 20152 Apr
MSF: Hand injury during stowing of anchor chains
A crewman sustained a first-aid hand injury while re-stowing an anchor chain after dry-dock calibration. He used a large pinch bar to correct a misaligned link, then trapped his hand between the bar and an adjacent handrail while lowering it. The flash highlights risks from unexpected movement of heavy objects.
- 20153 Mar
Capstan wire parted during deployment of anchor buoy
A capstan wire parted while an anchor buoy was dragged on a vessel’s deck during the fourth anchor drag test; nobody was injured. Findings included insufficient wire capacity, flange abrasion and absent between-test inspections. Lessons address tugger use, wire routing, pre-test checks, risk assessment and crew training.
- 20143 Oct
MSF: person struck by tugger wire assembly
This safety flash describes a head injury during deployment of a 15 Te anchor from a vessel in a pre-lay operation. A rigging assembly parted, allowing both tugger wires to recoil around the cargo barrier. The source attributes the incident to inadequate identification and assessment of task-specific risks.
- 2014May
Dragging anchor and grounding of ro-ro passenger ferry Stena Alegra
Investigation of Stena Alegra’s anchor dragging and grounding off Karlskrona on 28 October 2013. The report examines anchoring equipment limitations, severe yawing, anchorage appraisal, contingency planning and conflicting engine-readiness expectations. Recommendations address anchoring guidance, early preventive action and masters’ handovers concerning vessel capabilities.
- 2012Dec
Series of accidents including windlass damage, grounding and 1 person injured on ro-ro cargo ferry Norcape
Investigation of Norcape’s windlass damage, grounding and crew injury during operations around Troon and Brodick Bay in November 2011. It examines anchoring loads and securing arrangements, vessel handling, tug coordination and propeller fouling during rope recovery. Recommendations address familiarisation, passage planning, manoeuvring-console information and emergency response.
- 201123 Dec
Near-miss during anchor line recovery
This safety flash summarises a Marine Safety Forum near miss during anchor line recovery. A large anchor chain broke, sending its inboard end back onto the deck uncontrollably and narrowly missing crew members. The complete forum flash is available on request.
- 201129 Jun
Anchor handling incident
During anchor handling, a recovery lasso cut through a buoy, leaving it irreparable. The flash attributes the damage to deployment contrary to procedures. It describes the intended capture beneath the buoy and the requirement to return the buoy to the water and retry if capture is unsuccessful.
- 20108 Apr
Fatality during anchor handling operation
A fatal anchor-recovery incident aboard a tug involved a buoy striking two crew members after a worn, oversized wire-stopper insert failed to restrain the pennant. Incorrect anchor-position information contributed to unexpected tension. Recommendations address stopper compatibility, monthly maintenance checks, survey-screen information and warnings, and a dedicated watch during recovery.
- 20108 Apr
Near-miss: improper use of fall-arrest equipment leads to fall
A rigger fell approximately one metre into the sea during rope-access work supporting anchor recovery, without injury. The flash examines incompatible strop and connector selection, side loading and roll-out, missing connection checks and absent backup protection. Recommendations address matched equipment, correct anchorage selection and training for workers and spotters.
- 2009Aug
Safety warning after catastrophic failure of high pressure hydraulic anchor windlasses
This bulletin examines catastrophic failures of high-pressure hydraulic anchor windlass motors, including incidents causing serious injuries from debris. Preliminary metallurgical findings indicate extreme internal pressures. It describes weather monitoring and manoeuvring to reduce anchor-chain tension, requires stopping heaving when significant tension develops, and urges manufacturer investigation and engineering solutions.
- 200916 Jan
Anchor drag near-miss incident
A barge anchor dragged approximately 300 metres along the seabed, approaching a live export pipeline without apparent structural damage. The flash identifies missed monitoring information, undefined competence requirements, poor procedural awareness and defective monitoring equipment. Company actions address competency, mentoring, shift balance, procedural communication, supervision and equipment repair.
- 200531 Oct
Lost anchor chain
A vessel lost one anchor and four lengths of chain cable during anchor handling. Investigation identified a fractured Kenter shackle as the probable cause; mishandling during opening or fitting may have contributed. The flash explains shackle durability and recommends generally replacing associated shackles when worn chain lengths are renewed.
- 2002
MAIB Safety Digest 1/2002
A multi-case marine safety digest examines merchant, fishing and leisure vessel accidents and near misses. Lessons address lookout practice, radar limitations, fatigue, maintenance, enclosed-space entry, fire response and survival preparation. Detailed cases discuss lifeboat failures, hydraulic overpressure and heavy-weather yacht evacuation, with practical emphasis on checks, communication and training.
- 2001May
Dragging anchor and grounding of liquid petroleum gas carrier Happy Lady
Investigates Happy Lady’s grounding in the Thames estuary during anchor recovery in strong winds. The cable jammed around the bulbous bow and raked stem while the vessel dragged towards shoal water. Analysis addresses the master’s decisions, forecastle supervision, anchoring procedures and preservation of safety history when ownership changes.
- 20001 Dec
Anchor handling on deck
A deck crew member suffered serious injury when a tugger wire parted and whipped during anchor handling. Slack in the pennant wire allowed excess anchor movement over the stern roller. The flash identifies good practice covering pennant tension, regular rigging checks, toolbox talks, approved procedures and safe crew positioning.
- 20005 Aug
Unexpected Anchor Release Causes Broken Leg
An alert describes an injury during preparation of a second piggyback anchor assembly aboard a vessel. A hydraulic anchor-handling jaw retracted, releasing the chain and jerking the anchor down the deck and over the stern. A stabiliser bar struck the Chief Mate, breaking his left leg below the knee.
- 20001 Jul
Parting of a crane lift wire
An 82.5 te riser anchor dropped to the seabed after a ship’s crane wire parted; nobody was injured. The investigation attributed the apparent failure to slack allowing the wire to overrun a sheave and bear on its pin. Actions included retention checks, improved operator visibility and conditional sheave observation before lifting.
- 19971 May
Anchor handling incident
During vessel anchor handling, a tugger wire suddenly tensioned and de-tensioned, probably because of movement on the swell. It struck the second mate, throwing him into the air and leaving him unconscious after landing. The contractor elected to review procedures and strengthen task risk-assessment emphasis during safety induction.
- 19949 Mar
Safety Alert 162 - Accidents on the OCS Involving Drilling Rigs, Derrick Barges, Pipeline Lay Barges, and Anchor-handling Vessels
The alert describes two jack-up rig moves that damaged pipelines and an earlier fatal anchor-recovery incident. It sets out survey, plat distribution and buoy-marking requirements, recommends adequate tug horsepower rather than premature leg contact to control movement, and emphasises lease operators’ responsibility for providing contractors with necessary hazard information.
- 19949 Mar
Safety Alert 163 - Accidents on the OCS Involving Drilling Rigs, Derrick Barges, Pipeline Lay Barges, and Anchor-handling Vessels
The notice describes pipeline damage during two jack-up rig moves and a fatal anchor-recovery incident. It sets out survey, plat distribution and buoy-marking requirements, recommends adequate tug horsepower rather than premature rig-leg bottom contact, and explains lease operators’ responsibility for supplying contractors with necessary information.
- Undated
Spinning Anchor Line Connection Injured Three Employees During Disconnection
An investigation describes three employees injured while disconnecting an anchor-line connection on Diamond Ocean Saratoga. Stored torque spun the uncoupled Kener Link, pulling a prybar from their hands and striking them. The report identifies the absence of a swivel link as the probable cause; the operator attributed its omission to unavailable spares.
- Undated
Derrick Barge Struck Compressor Platform After Anchor Recovery
Investigation of the William Kallop derrick barge striking Chevron’s ST 130D compressor platform after anchor recovery. The report identifies loss of tugboat control, poor communication and strong current as probable causes, describes structural damage, and records failure to follow Arena Offshore’s emergency evacuation plan.
- Undated
Barge Struck Production Platform During Towing and Anchoring
An investigation documents Crossmar 14 striking the Ship Shoal 182 B production platform during towing and anchoring. Tensioned cables at opposite corners caused the barge to pivot, damaging a well conductor and structural support. Findings identify excessive proximity, an absent documented safe work plan and no assigned bow lookout.
- Undated
Catastrophic failure of windlass hydraulic motor on oil tanker Stellar Voyager
Investigation synopsis of a windlass hydraulic motor failure aboard Stella Voyager during anchor recovery off Tees Bay. Motor fragments seriously injured the operator. Findings identify excessive anchor-chain tension and evidence of over-pressurisation. Recommendations address technical requirements, manufacturers’ failure investigations, safe anchor recovery and improved machinery information.
- Undated
Dragging anchor and grounding of general cargo vessel Harvest Caroline
Investigation synopsis of Harvest Caroline dragging anchor and grounding at Tanera More in strong northerly winds. Findings address unsuitable anchorage selection, insufficient anchor cable, an absent anchor watch and deficient safety management. It describes passenger evacuation, refloating and towage, revised bridge manning instructions, a watch alarm and recommendations concerning ISM verification.
- Undated
Dragging anchor and grounding of general cargo vessel Thunder
Thunder dragged anchor and grounded near Mostyn after navigating without an appropriate chart. The synopsis examines agent-supplied waypoints, anchorage arrangements, watchkeeping and delayed recognition of the grounding. Recommendations address pilotage, passage planning, chart updates, emergency procedures and anchoring guidance. No vessel damage, crew injuries or pollution were reported.
- Undated
Dragging anchor and grounding of oil/chemical tanker Astral
Investigation synopsis of Astral dragging anchor and grounding on Princessa Shoal during severe weather. It describes engine readiness, the bridge response and subsequent tow. Hull, rudder and steering gear damage occurred without pollution or loss of watertightness. Actions address anchoring procedures, officer assessment and harbour safety communications.
- Undated
Dragging anchor and grounding of tanker Willy
Investigation synopsis of Willy’s grounding after dragging anchor in Cawsand Bay. Contributing factors included insufficient cable for the conditions, delayed detection of movement, delayed notification of the master and insufficient time to make the engine available. The GPS guard zone exceeded the swinging-circle radius by almost three times.
- Undated
Dragging anchor by product carrier Young Lady resulting in snagging and damaging of gas pipeline
Young Lady dragged anchor in heavy weather in Tees Bay. A windlass hydraulic motor failure occurred while weighing anchor, and the anchor subsequently snagged and damaged the CATS gas pipeline. The investigation identified an inappropriate anchoring decision and incomplete assessment of vessel–pipeline risks; recommendations addressed information, notification and pipeline protection.
- Undated
Safety warning after dragging anchor and grounding of vessel
MAIB safety bulletin following Willy’s anchor dragging and grounding in Cawsand Bay. It examines delayed detection using a GPS guard zone and radar, and engine availability. Recommendations address anchor watchkeeping, cable scope, weather reassessment, second-anchor readiness and moving from unsafe anchorages.