Control
Functional Testing
Testing whether safety-relevant equipment performs its intended function.
Newest 100 Documents
All 482 in search- 2026May
GEC Type VMX High Voltage Switchgear (including GEC Alsthom, Alstom or Areva T&D)
HSE safety notice addresses partial discharge and vacuum interrupter integrity in legacy GEC VMX high-voltage switchgear. Following a disruptive circuit-breaker failure involving arcing and fire, it recommends checking applicable design modifications, maintenance records and substation environmental conditions, alongside discharge surveys, integrity testing and revised access risk assessments.
- 20262 Apr
Foundering of the fishing vessel Freedom II (CN 111)
Investigation of Freedom II’s foundering off western Scotland identifies suction-pipe fatigue failure as the most likely flooding source. It examines overwhelmed and unavailable pumps, progressive flooding, seawater isolation, emergency preparedness and delayed distress alerting. All crew were recovered uninjured; actions already taken led to no new recommendations.
- 202631 Mar
Offshore Inspection Guide Electrical Power Systems
An inspection guide for assessing electrical power systems and duty holder compliance. It addresses generation, distribution, protection, portable equipment and safe electrical work, with condition-monitoring methods including partial-discharge analysis, thermography and insulating-oil assessment. Performance scoring supports regulatory intervention planning; ATEX equipment is excluded.
- 202631 Mar
Well integrity control measures and performance standards guidance note
Guidance for developing and implementing well operation management plans addresses selection, assessment and assurance of well-integrity controls throughout the lifecycle. It explains links between risk assessment and measurable performance standards, periodic effectiveness reviews, functional testing, procedural assurance, contingency measures and relief-well planning, with quality checks for documented control performance.
- 20263 Mar
W2W gangway bumper damaged during demonstration
A walk-to-work gangway bumper broke off during an emergency-retraction demonstration while connected to an offshore wind turbine transition piece. Vessel movement during an approximately one-second uncompensated delay overloaded the bolts. Nobody was harmed. Actions included crew refamiliarisation, revised demonstration procedures and manufacturer evaluation of a possible software revision requiring class approval.
- 2026Mar
Production PINCs
Numbered regulatory inspection questions address production safety systems, well barriers and casing-pressure diagnostics. Checks cover shutdown valve operation, gas and fire detection calibration, firewater pumps, pressure relief and protective devices on process equipment. Conditional approval requirements and specified testing intervals support inspection of production facilities and subsea components.
- 2026Feb
Well Workover
This regulatory inspection guide presents compliance questions for oil and gas well-workover operations. It covers prior approval, well-control fluid replenishment and measurement, crown-block safety checks, mud-pit level warnings, tubing and wellhead requirements, wireline leakage prevention, and pressure testing of newly installed lubricators against expected shut-in surface pressure.
- 202622 Jan
Fall from a pilot ladder while attempting to board the cargo vessel Finnhawk from the pilot vessel Humber Saturn with loss of 1 life
Investigation of a fatal pilot boarding accident involving Finnhawk and Humber Saturn. A probable cardiac event preceded the fall, while recovery-platform failure left the injured pilot partially immersed for over 40 minutes. The report examines medical fitness assessment, hydraulic defects, maintenance, cold-water protection and rescue training.
- 202612 Jan
NTSB: Engine room fire – put things back properly after maintenance
An IMCA flash summarises a fatal engine-room fire aboard a dredging vessel. NTSB attributed the probable cause to lubricating oil spraying from a generator and igniting off a nearby running engine after a plug was not reinstated. Lessons emphasise post-maintenance inspection, correct reassembly and local test starts where appropriate and practical.
- 2026Jan
D-PINCs (Operators Version - Jan 2026) — Drilling
A regulatory checklist for oil and gas drilling, linking numbered compliance questions to statutory authorities and enforcement actions. It addresses approvals, diverter configuration and testing, casing installation, cement placement, drilling-fluid management and monitoring. Further checks cover ventilation, gas detection, ignition prevention and retention of drilling and test records.
- 2026Jan
Well Operations
An inspection guide presenting compliance questions for well operations under Subpart G, with regulatory authorities and enforcement codes. It covers casing and liner integrity, surface and subsea blowout preventer configuration, pressure and function testing, maintenance and records, alongside specific requirements for coiled tubing and snubbing systems.
- 202518 Dec
Two Walk-to-Work gangway incidents
Two related Walk-to-Work gangway incidents occurred during offshore wind personnel transfers. Hydraulic stiction caused uncontrolled slewing and a collision with the vessel crane. Subsequent modifications introduced an automation logic error that prevented retraction during connection preparation. The flash describes hydraulic adjustments, revised operating procedures and manufacturer testing; neither incident caused injury.
- 2025Dec
CHIRP Superyacht FEEDBACK 8 (December 2025)
Superyacht incident reports examine a failed mooring attachment, captain harassment, generator starter battery explosions, collision at anchor, unsafe pilot boarding arrangements, unprotected work aloft and defective life rafts. Commentary discusses battery capacity and ventilation, engineering handovers, equipment servicing and testing, reporting concerns and organisational safety culture.
- 202526 Nov
Control measures and performance standards guidance note
Guidance for offshore facility operators on selecting and assessing controls for major accident risks and establishing verifiable performance standards. It addresses layered protection, common-mode failures, ALARP demonstration, critical operating parameters and lifecycle suitability, linking safety-case documentation with functional testing, monitoring, audit, review and contingency arrangements when controls underperform.
- 20252 Oct
Dropped object due to over-ridden limit switch
A vessel crane operator bypassed limit switches while raising the hook for an overboarding lift. A mini beacon struck the clump weight and fell to the deck; a restraint and sensor cable also parted. Nobody was injured. The flash examines knuckle-boom configuration, override decisions, safety-system verification and safer equipment design.
- 202518 Sep
Auxiliary engine room fire on board the ro-ro cargo ship Finnmaster
Investigation of Finnmaster’s auxiliary engine room fire during departure from Hull. Partial fuel injection pump coupling failure and leaking hot exhaust preceded fuel hose failure and ignition. The report examines defective emergency power, incomplete carbon dioxide suppression, maintenance and supplier assurance, system testing and crew response. No injuries were reported.
- 202519 Aug
UK HSE: Motion Compensated Gangways Auto-Retraction
This IMCA flash summarises UK HSE concerns about unplanned retraction of motion-compensated gangways following power or control-system failures. It explains why simultaneous alarms provide inadequate warning and outlines required reviews of gangway arrangements and automatic-function testing, alongside recommended technical risk assessment and rigorous assessment of operator overrides.
- 20251 Aug
BSEE Safety Alert - 504 - Malfunction of Rental Generator's Engine Air Shutoff System
A rental generator fire on an offshore platform followed a closed right-bank air flap, allowing unburnt diesel and excess oil to accumulate and ignite with heat from the operating left bank. The alert recommends considering improved maintenance checks, alarm verification, training and procurement assurance, including independent testing of each emergency air flap.
- 2025Aug
Motion Compensated Gangways Auto-retraction
HSE warns that power failures or control-system errors can trigger unexpected retraction of motion-compensated gangways, exposing users to falls and moving parts. The notice requires reviews of gangway arrangements, design and automatic-function testing, and calls for adequate advance warnings and rigorous assessment of operator overrides.
- 202531 Jul
Near miss: High voltage arc inside tether termination manifold
A dislodged HPU conductor caused arcing inside an ROV tether termination manifold. Subsequent checks identified reduced insulation resistance and gas, whose origin was unconfirmed without testing. The flash examines unapproved termination lugs and records re-termination, system testing and recommendations to assess crimping tools and review procedures and gas-venting precautions.
- 20253 Jul
Unsafe use of electrical equipment in cabins
Crew aboard a vessel used two-pin chargers directly in three-pin accommodation sockets without suitable adaptors. This flash explains potential socket damage, loose connections, arcing, overheating and fire. It recommends compatible adaptors, crew guidance on plug compatibility, regular socket checks, appliance testing and tagging, and easier reporting of concerns.
- 2025Jul
Hydrocarbon Active Fire Protection
An inspection guide for offshore hydrocarbon fire protection, setting out regulatory expectations, success criteria and dutyholder scoring. It examines firewater pumps, ring mains, deluge coverage and chemical dosing, with emphasis on corrosion, marine growth, system availability, as-found testing and investigation of recurring blockages.
- 20256 Jun
BSEE Safety Alert 500 - Dropped Steel Plate Due to Defective Lifting Device and Inadequate Hazard Analysis
A steel plate released from a worn magnetic lifter during drilling operations, falling approximately 47 inches onto two workers’ left feet. The alert identifies inadequate task hazard analysis and reluctance to stop work. Recommendations address lifting-device inspection, functional testing, safety communication, and electromagnet power stability and duty-cycle limits.
- 202522 May
EC175 B Rotor Blade Failures at Offshore Platform During Strong Winds
Investigates rotor blade failures on EC175 B G-MCSH at the Elgin platform during strong winds. A partially seized rotor brake prevented blade securing; local vertical airflow was considered to exacerbate blade sailing. The report examines maintenance, securing equipment, helideck airflow, wind reporting and flight recorder anomalies, and makes six safety recommendations.
- 20253 Apr
BSEE Safety Alert 498 - Explosion and Fire Incident
A liftboat explosion during separator draining injured two workers with burns. Gas accumulated on deck and a generator surge triggered ignition. The alert examines tank sealing, unsuitable gas detectors, failed air-intake shutoff controls and delayed medical evacuation, recommending that operators consider improved procedures, inspections, testing and emergency arrangements.
- 20256 Feb
MAIB: Vessel cook injured by spillage of burning cooking oil
A cook aboard an offshore support vessel suffered severe burns when wet chemical suppression displaced burning oil from a shallow-sided gyro pan. A faulty thermostat and unsuitable use for deep-frying featured in the incident. Lessons address hazardous work-arounds, regular maintenance, testing overheated appliances and following manufacturers’ guidance.
- 2025
CHIRP Maritime FEEDBACK 80 (Autumn 2025)
This maritime incident digest examines unsafe pilot transfers, an obstructed escape hatch, incorrect antenna labelling, pest infestation and unsafe fumigation, an unmanned survey vessel capsize, and an enclosed-space inspection injury. Commentary emphasises practical design validation, operational limits, crew welfare and confirmed communication between teams.
- 202415 Nov
Safety Alert 492 - Fall Protection Self-Retracting Lanyard
BSEE describes two falls involving self-retracting lanyards: an approximately 90-foot fall with an incorrectly rigged belay, and a swinging fall involving an offset anchor point. It recommends that operators and contractors consider system angle limits, pre-use inspections, functional checks, job safety analysis, current training and site-specific rescue planning.
- 202424 Oct
Main Crane failure during load test
An offshore crane overload test ended with broken main-block wires and two cargo barges falling into the water. Uneven drum torque followed clutch-pad slipping, linked to inadequate burnishing of new pads. The vessel listed approximately nine degrees; nobody was injured. Lessons cover burnishing, torque testing, planned maintenance and crane FMEA review.
- 202414 Oct
Inappropriate automatic activation of fixed fire-fighting system
A harbour tug’s fixed engine-room firefighting system discharged all its gas after two blackouts within 24 hours. Activation was linked to a battery-voltage rise following a pilot-cylinder solenoid valve malfunction. Nobody was harmed. Lessons address electrical supply adequacy, emergency-system functionality and blackout drill protocols.
- 202414 Oct
MSF: Safety pins left in fire suppression system – high potential near miss
A vessel inspection after dry docking found safety pins still fitted to all engine-room CO2 suppression bottles, preventing remote activation in a potential fire. Third-party testing and subsequent checks had missed their removal. The flash recommends permit-to-work coverage, deck-officer verification, procedural familiarity and checks for immediate equipment readiness.
- 202414 Aug
Arm injury from metal skip cover
A crew member suffered an arm injury when an unsecured heavy skip cover closed during waste disposal on a vessel’s deck. No bones were broken, and the person returned to light duties. The flash stresses securing covers, checking closing mechanisms and considering a hazard hunt for similar conditions onboard.
- 202414 Aug
MSF: Serious hand injury – high pressure air
During a vessel fire drill, a crewmember assisting with breathing apparatus suffered a finger injury from high-pressure air released through a cylinder valve’s pilot vent hole. Surgical treatment was required. The flash relays MSF recommendations on connection tightening, leak checks, breathing checks and low-pressure alarm testing.
- 202416 Jul
Emergency musters and drills
Two events highlight emergency alarm readiness and fire hazards at muster stations. A stuck emergency button delayed alarm activation during a drill, prompting questions about functional checks. In a separate event, a paper cup discarded with a burning cigarette butt in an ashtray caused smouldering and a small fire.
- 202416 Jul
Loss of pressure to diver’s primary air supply
A diver was recovered safely after primary air supply pressure fell. Surface testing traced regulator sticking to dried lubricant restricting the sensing assembly, particularly during light breathing. The flash discusses supervisory intervention, insufficient internal servicing, regulator rotation and increased six-monthly maintenance, testing and cleaning.
- 20242 Jul
ROV dropped to seabed
An ROV fell to the seabed after recovery-system latching problems and umbilical separation. Cold, dirty grease slowed the latch, while the operator could not see the locked-position indicator. The flash identifies maintenance, procedure and supervision shortcomings and describes cleaning, functional verification and renewed procedural assurance.
- 20247 Jun
Environmental Alert 001/2024
OPRED advises offshore installation operators and owners that a 25% reduction in required fog-signal range is acceptable, allowing 1.5 nautical miles where two are required. Observed reductions should be examined promptly, particularly when repeated, with retesting in optimal conditions and emitter testing to assure compliance with consent conditions and navigational performance standards.
- 202416 Apr
Main bell wire rope damaged
During bell recovery after a saturation dive, a broken outer wire rope strand lifted a proximity switch bracket into the sheave, damaging the main bell wire. Operators stopped recovery and freed the bracket. The flash describes design shortcomings, sensor relocation, cutting back damaged wire, a witnessed load test and an empty-bell trial.
- 20241 Apr
Functional Safety Inspection Guide
Inspection guidance for assessing dutyholders’ management of functional safety against BS EN 61511. It covers lifecycle assessments, competence, SIL allocation and verification, safety requirements, commissioning, proof testing, maintenance and modifications. The Functional Safety Assessment Framework links compliance gaps to performance scores and initial enforcement expectations.
- 202427 Feb
UK HSE: Crane boom collapse
This safety flash describes a crane boom collapse during preparations to recover a faulty submersible pump from an offshore rig. Debris struck a supply vessel and a snagged cement hose ruptured. The investigation identified an unchecked, incorrectly set limit switch, overridden joystick safety mechanisms and defective safety management. Nobody was injured.
- 202419 Feb
USCG: wire rope hazard management – dropped turbine nacelle
A vessel crane’s wire rope failed during offloading, dropping a 69-ton wind turbine nacelle 2.2 m onto the deck near personnel. Corrosion, wear and monotonic ductile overload were identified. The flash relays USCG recommendations on load testing, lubrication, maintenance tracking, earlier rope renewal, visual inspection and crane-operator training.
- 20237 Dec
Accidental discharge of condensed aerosol fire-extinguishing system on beam trawler Resurgam with loss of 1 life
Investigation of a fatal accidental aerosol fire-extinguishing system discharge during installation aboard Resurgam in Newlyn harbour. It examines electrical commissioning, generator placement, toxic combustion products and impaired escape. Laboratory trials inform analysis of inhalation hazards, while findings address installer competence, regulatory approval, contractor coordination and rescue arrangements.
- 2023Dec
Overfill of vapour recovery units
HSE warns that a gasoline overfill exposed dependence between a vapour recovery unit’s process controls and overfill protection, resulting in loss of containment. The notice calls for risk assessment, physical verification, inspection, maintenance and testing of safety functions, with independent safeguards and control-system modifications where required, managed through change procedures.
- 202313 Nov
High potential near miss: Crane part fell to deck
A vessel-transit near miss involved a 3.6 kg crane limit switch falling 6.5 m onto the deck without injury. The flash discusses inadequate plate design, unbalanced forces and deficient maintenance arrangements. Actions address redesign and more frequent inspection, while lessons highlight access difficulties and potentially misleading functional test results.
- 202326 Oct
Safety Alert 471 - Pipe Bond Failure on Firefighting System Investigated and Repaired
A firewater pipe separated from its flange, displacing another pipe and prompting a production halt. The affected main was isolated and repaired before production resumed. Bond failure was identified as a potential cause. BSEE recommends considering maintenance review, personnel competence measures, connection testing where possible and leak checks during routine system tests.
- 202323 Oct
Bypass of Emergency Shutdown in Rented Equipment Results in Additional Risk to Personnel and the Environment
An offshore inspection found a rented generator/light plant powering a coiled tubing unit with its emergency shutdown bypassed following air intake hose removal. A functional test confirmed shutdown failure. The alert recommends considering rental-equipment checks, maintenance-record review, competence assurance and protective procedures when shutdown systems require bypass.
- 202324 Jul
Fire in diesel generator following tests
A vessel’s diesel generator caught fire during operational-speed testing after alternator bearing replacement in port. A misaligned bearing cover caused shaft friction and sparking; insufficient contractor supervision was considered the root cause. The flash emphasises thorough supervision and post-maintenance testing beyond idling speed.
- 20235 Jul
Lack of Uninterruptible Power Supply
Three offshore production incidents illustrate uninterruptible power supply failures affecting emergency power, communications and process controls. The alert examines capacitor damage, battery overcharging, inadequate maintenance instructions and outdated drawings. It recommends operators consider maintenance and testing programmes, thermal scanning, redundancy and emergency response arrangements for power loss.
- 202329 Jun
Watson Grinding Fatal Explosion and Fire
Investigation of the Houston propylene explosion that killed two employees and a nearby resident. It examines a degraded, poorly crimped hose, inconsistent supply isolation and non-functional automated safeguards. Findings address process safety management, change assessment, emergency preparedness and regulatory exclusions; lighting activation is identified as the likely ignition event.
- 202312 Jun
MAIB: Gantry crane wire parted causing injury
An engine-room gantry crane dropped a 1200kg cylinder liner during generator overhaul, damaging equipment and breaking a fitter’s toe. A replacement hoisting wire was 7 m shorter than specified, preventing effective limit-switch operation. The flash reports incorrect maintenance records, inspections and repairs, and recommends testing hoist limit switches before crane operation.
- 202324 May
Loss of redundancy in diving bell launch and recovery PLC system
A diving bell launch and recovery system lost automatic PLC redundancy when a synchronisation module developed a faulty transmitting diode. Unavailable spares delayed repair. Following risk assessment and successful testing of independent processors and manual changeover, the vessel resumed work using temporary manual redundancy. Automatic redundancy was subsequently restored in port.
- 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.
- 20235 May
Environmental Alert 001/2023
An environmental alert describes inadvertent discharge of over 400 kg of fluorinated fire suppressant following routine testing. Water ingress affected an ATEX activation microswitch, causing delayed operation. Examination also found corrosion at switch interfaces. Duty holders should consider reviewing inspection and maintenance schedules to minimise seal failure and water ingress.
- 20233 May
Inspection notice from Crosby on certain products
Crosby’s inspection notice concerns hoist rings with missing retaining pins, allowing hinge pins to escape while unloaded. It describes outward prying or pulling and twisting checks on both hinge pins, acceptable movement, inspection marking, and removal from service for rings with inadequately secured pins.
- 2023May
Hydrogen Sulfide
Regulatory inspection questions address areas classified as hydrogen sulphide present or unknown. They cover contingency plans, training, drills, gas detection, respiratory protection, ventilation and medical equipment. Further checks address soluble sulphide testing, well-control fluid treatment, flaring, detector testing intervals and corrosion-resistant materials during well and production operations.
- 202327 Apr
Carbon monoxide poisoning on board the sports cruiser Emma Louise with loss of 2 lives
Investigates two fatal carbon monoxide poisonings aboard Emma Louise at Port Hamble Marina. Gas measurements and optical gas imaging indicated that engine exhaust likely entered the poorly ventilated covered cockpit via a towable ski ring at the transom. The report discusses marine carbon monoxide alarms, ventilation and awareness among recreational boat users.
- 20234 Apr
Crew member trapped his left index finger in watertight door
A fitter sustained minor abrasions to his left index finger while cycling a watertight door to investigate conflicting door-status indications. His hand became trapped between the moving edge and frame. The flash discusses concentrated fault finding, possible distractions, and the role of education, training, monitoring and enforcement in managing behaviour.
- 202321 Feb
Extreme Caution Advised During Swing Rope Transfers
This alert reviews offshore swing-rope transfer incidents involving a fractured foot, a shin laceration and a fall into water without injury. BSEE recommends transfer-specific risk assessments, competence assurance and recovery capability checks, alongside verification of transfer systems and locator beacons. Alternative transfer methods, including gangways or elevated structures, are recommended for consideration.
- 202318 Jan
LTI - Finger injury during davit test
During rescue-boat davit testing, a winch brake failure caused the craft to fall, trapping a crew member’s hand between a tensioned painter rope and a handrail. The flash describes serious finger injuries, inadequate supervision and toolbox communication, and lessons on rope handling, protective equipment and specific launch and test procedures.
- 202318 Jan
Near miss: pilot ladder – side rope failed
During night-time pilot boarding, a ladder side rope parted during weight testing; the pilot was uninjured and boarding was aborted. The flash identifies omitted strength testing, continued use beyond operational life and absence of a spare ladder. Actions address pre-use inspection, replacement intervals and planned maintenance records.
- 2023Jan
CHIRP Superyacht FEEDBACK 1 (January 2023)
This first superyacht incident digest examines backstay entrapment, tender grounding, unfamiliar steering controls, unsafe recovery from the water, an uncontrolled anchor chain and a fatal jet-ski collision. Commentary addresses communication, equipment familiarisation, control testing and the pressures that undermine captains’ safety decisions, alongside crew welfare and medical support.
- 2023
CHIRP Superyacht FEEDBACK 4 (Autumn 2023)
This superyacht digest analyses an allergic reaction, faulty gangway installation, a dive-vessel capsize, berth-departure contact, mooring injuries and grounding followed by dismissal of a reporting watchkeeper. Commentary examines equipment certification, stability testing, medical preparedness, line-handling teamwork, passage planning and constructive challenges to unsafe decisions.
- 202210 Nov
BSEE: Hazards associated with cranes on idle facilities
This flash summarises BSEE observations of deteriorated cranes on idle Gulf of Mexico facilities. Corroded cables, degraded slings and leaking reservoirs present dropped-object and pollution hazards. Recommendations address removing or temporarily securing blocks and balls, inspecting cranes before return to service, storing or discarding slings, and clearing reservoirs and hoses.
- 202210 Aug
Hazards Associated with Cranes on Idle Facilities Pose Safety and Environmental Risks
BSEE reports deteriorated crane cables, missing components and pollution hazards on idle Gulf of Mexico facilities. Corroded cables and weather-exposed slings create dropped-object risks. Operators are advised to consider removing or securing blocks and balls, inspecting cranes before returning them to service, and clearing diesel and hydraulic reservoirs and hoses.
- 202222 Jul
USCG: Unexpected Dangers: Lifeboat Remote Control Wires
This flash describes two lifeboat launching failures involving remote control wires: wire parting associated with poor spooling, followed by unexpected payout after replacement. The second event caused erratic lowering and a list exceeding 90 degrees. It highlights visual inspection, shackle condition and company requirements for test lowering without crew.
- 202222 Jun
Capsize and sinking of scallop dredger Joanna C with loss of 2 lives
Investigation of Joanna C’s fatal capsize south of Newhaven during scallop dredge recovery. It examines stability degraded by modifications, unfinished inclining-experiment analysis and regulatory oversight. Liferaft buoyancy and inflation-force testing explains failed automatic inflation, while survival analysis addresses flotation loss, delayed beacon activation and escape from the sinking vessel.
- 202222 Jun
Capsize and sinking of whelk potter Nicola Faith with loss of 3 lives
Investigation of Nicola Faith’s fatal capsize in Colwyn Bay examines vessel modifications, combined catch and pot loading, and survival arrangements. Stability testing and modelling underpin the conclusion that loading almost certainly caused sudden instability. The report also assesses regulatory gaps, mandatory training, emergency beacons and personal flotation.
- 2022Jun
CHIRP Maritime FEEDBACK 67
Maritime incident reports examine risk acceptance through undocking damage, unsafe access over timber cargo, power and detection failures, collisions, cargo-control distraction, grounding, sinking and boiler repair. Commentary addresses testing, isolation, familiarisation and challenge culture. Additional material describes tug-use training and a pilot-boarding safety checklist.
- 202212 May
IOGP: Dropped object with potential for injury – riser release
This flash describes premature anchor-tool release during recovery of a 16-inch riser from a jack-up drilling unit. The riser dropped approximately 14 metres, damaging the subsea wellhead sealing face without injuries. It reports pull-test and load-rating discrepancies and relays IOGP’s recommendation for continuous pressure energisation of the tool’s slip mechanism.
- 20224 May
Maintenance and painting – two incidents
Two maintenance-related incidents involved a lifeboat brake mechanism and a crane high-hook alarm. Paint restricted moving components; a broken shackle affected lifeboat braking, while the crane hook block struck sheaves. Neither incident caused injury. Actions include post-maintenance operational checks, alarm testing, crane movement monitoring and dye penetration inspection.
- 2022May
Mast climbing work platforms: Failure to detect mechanical failure in drive units leading to uncontrolled fall of platforms
HSE alerts users to undetected drive-unit faults that could allow mast climbing work platforms to descend uncontrollably. It calls for immediate checks and withdrawal where controls are absent, addressing current-demand monitoring, individual centrifugal brakes, automatic brake checks, limit switches, overload protection and competent periodic inspection.
- 202228 Apr
Two catastrophic engine failures, one resulting in a fire, on board ro-ro passenger ferry Wight Sky
Investigation of Wight Sky’s August and December 2018 engine failures, extended to related fleet failures. It distinguishes lubrication loss from a factory bearing-cap assembly error and examines maintenance records, oil and coolant monitoring, contractor support, delayed declutching and missing engine protection. Effective crew response limited the consequences.
- 202221 Apr
MAIB: Blockage of fixed CO2 fire extinguishing system pilot hoses
Following a cargo ship engine-room fire, blocked pilot hoses were found to have impaired CO2 suppression. Couplings had not been fully bored through, and servicing tests had missed blockages and leaks. The flash highlights manual activation procedures and pneumatic flow testing of complete hose assemblies.
- 202221 Apr
Subsea transponder wire parted
A positioning transponder’s tripod wire parted during vessel repositioning. The 4 mm wire failed approximately 1 m from the lifting eye, with corrosion and insufficient replacement identified. Divers and a crane recovered the tripod. Actions included performance testing, visual checks before launch and during recovery, and six-monthly wire replacement.
- 202221 Mar
Check your Cybersecurity Readiness
BSEE urges Outer Continental Shelf operators and contractors to strengthen cyber defences amid potential increased infrastructure threats associated with Ukraine. Recommendations include monitoring CISA guidance, addressing known vulnerabilities, preparing staff to detect network abnormalities, testing manual backup controls and reporting suspicious activity or compromised safety and environmental systems.
- 202210 Mar
Safety warning issued after discovery of blocked fixed CO2 fire extinguishing system pilot hoses
This bulletin examines blocked pilot hoses discovered after Finnmaster’s engine-room fire in Hull. Incompletely bored couplings prevented gas passage, while servicing tests missed blockages and leaks. It describes radiographic examination, revised pneumatic flow testing and recommendations to rectify affected assemblies and improve purchasing and quality control.
- 202220 Jan
Master links came free from lifeboat release hooks, releasing the lifeboat
During annual checks alongside, an unmanned lifeboat launch ended with uncontrolled disconnection of both master links and subsequent release of its painters. Incorrectly orientated handles released the hook safety latches. The lifeboat sustained slight damage but no injuries occurred. Replacement links with sideways-orientated handles were specified.
- 202210 Jan
LTI: Person fell down hatch inside crane pedestal
During inspection inside an offshore crane pedestal, an engineer fell through a hatch after its unsecured cover shifted and tipped into the room below. Foot and back bruising required several weeks of rest. The flash identifies poor cover design and highlights testing and securing similar hatch covers against unintended movement.
- 20219 Dec
ROV main lift failure
An ROV/TMS assembly fell to the seabed during a test-dive launch when its umbilical termination slipped through the socketing; nobody was harmed. Investigation identified inadequate cone size, uneven strand distribution, excessive docking force and resin-related shape changes. Corrective actions included a larger cone and adjustment of docking-head dampers.
- 202116 Aug
Drawworks Parking Brake Failure
Repeated drawworks parking brake failures culminated in identification of leaking pneumatic circuit components after earlier repairs and successful tests. One failure allowed the travelling block to descend 5 feet, damaging drill pipe. BSEE recommends considering pressure-based engagement checks, additional indicators, component testing and replacement frequencies, and preventive maintenance of the rig air supply.
- 202110 Aug
Miscommunication of Load Weight Leads to a Lifting High Potential Lifting Near Miss
A cargo lift exceeded the crane’s rated capacity after intercom miscommunication led to an incorrect manifest weight; the basket tag also showed its empty weight. Wire rope damage was subsequently found. BSEE recommends considering improved shipment coordination, load marking, weight verification, pre-lift rigging checks and inspection and testing of overloaded cranes.
- 202121 Jul
Metal Obstructions Lead To Hand Injuries
BSEE describes two hand lacerations involving a metal tag during ball-valve operation and a securing band during transmitter connector work with channel lock pliers. Gloves were absent in one case and insufficient in the other. Recommendations for consideration address hand protection, valve checks, sharp edges, job safety analyses and safety discussions.
- 202116 Jun
Failure of EGS valve stem on dive helmet
A diving helmet’s emergency gas valve handle broke during pre-dive inspection on deck. Laboratory analysis attributed the failure to pitting and chloride-induced stress corrosion cracking. After replacement and testing, the helmet returned to service. The company introduced scheduled dye penetrant testing and identified three further stems with stress-like indications.
- 202114 Apr
Carbon monoxide poisoning on motor cruiser Diversion with loss of 2 lives
This investigation examines two fatal carbon monoxide poisonings aboard Diversion at York. Exhaust leaked from an incompatible, non-marine cabin heater silencer and pipe connection, entering circulating air. Restricted ventilation and the absence of an alarm are analysed alongside installation checks, servicing and heater testing.
- 20218 Apr
SIMOPS – Smoke from hot work task enters confined space
During sewage-tank cleaning aboard a vessel in dry dock, a ventilation fan drew smoke from nearby oxy-propane cutting into the confined space. Workers evacuated without harm. The flash examines gas-detector placement, overdue calibration and missing bump tests, and identifies improvements to simultaneous operations planning and fume extraction.
- 202117 Mar
Offshore Pipeline Integrity Management (Issue 2)
Inspection guidance for assessing offshore hydrocarbon pipeline integrity management, compliance and performance. It addresses ageing and life extension, corrosion monitoring, pipeline and riser inspection, shutdown valve testing, pigging safeguards and emergency preparedness. Success criteria, sample inspection agendas and enforcement assessment guidance support examination of operators’ arrangements.
- 202125 Feb
Engine failure and subsequent fire on ro-ro cargo vessel Finlandia Seaways with 1 person injured
Investigation annexes examine a vessel’s main-engine failure and engine-room fire through connecting-rod fracture analysis, microscopy and material testing. Fatigue was identified, but consequential damage limited precise initiation-site identification. Supporting documents address connecting-rod ovality, recommended replacement intervals and machinery survey examinations credited through Chief Engineers.
- 202124 Feb
Ship Allisions Result in Severe Damage to Fixed Facilities
Reports two oil tanker allisions with South Pass shelf platforms in October 2020 and January 2021, causing damage without injuries or pollution. Investigations remained ongoing. Recommendations address navigation-aid inspections, conditional notices to mariners, consideration of close-ship protocols and drills, regulatory compliance audits, and post-allision topside and underwater structural surveys.
- 202123 Feb
Disabled audible alarm on fire alarm panel
Routine testing revealed a fire alarm panel giving a visual warning but no audible alarm. Inspection identified a disconnected cable, although how it became disconnected remained unknown. The flash records inadequate testing and maintenance oversight, and suggests members may wish to verify audible and visual alarm functions.
- 202111 Feb
Crane whip line parted during hook stop testing
During auxiliary winch hook-stop testing, uncontrolled hoisting caused a headache ball to strike the crane jib, snap the wire and fall with the rigging to deck. Corroded speed encoders and poor wire condition were identified. The flash addresses rope examination, encoder maintenance, management of change and start-up risk assessment.
- 202111 Feb
Failure of remote control/emergency stop on rescue boat winch
During rescue-boat recovery, remote control and emergency-stop functions failed, and the limit switch did not stop retrieval. Inspection found a contactor stuck closed; frequent short switching intervals were considered the most probable cause. The flash emphasises correct retrieval procedures, component inspection and replacement, and regular emergency-stop function testing within planned maintenance.
- 2021Feb
Failure of a road tanker pressure/vacuum relief valve
HSE safety alert describes a modified road-tanker relief valve that stuck open, releasing nitric acid vapour without injuries or property damage. A welded nut obstructed the valve stem. It calls for visual checks for unauthorised modifications, manufacturer-guided servicing and verification of both pressure and vacuum protection functions.
- 202121 Jan
Risk-Based Inspections of Subsea Leak Detection Technology Reveals Gaps in System Processes
BSEE reviews three subsea oil leaks and inspection findings showing weaknesses in leak-detection procedures and management processes. Operators and contractors are asked to consider clearer alarm response responsibilities, personnel training, system testing, configuration change control and ROV surveys. The alert emphasises investigating abnormal flow and learning from previous detection failures.
- 202119 Jan
Lifeboat wire rope failure
A lifeboat fell and overturned during a five-yearly 110% load test after its forward fall wire slipped through reused bulldog clips. No personnel were aboard and no injuries were reported. The flash examines termination preparation and torque deficiencies, recommends competent personnel, and suggests considering asymmetrical wedge sockets.
- 202027 Nov
Blind Shear Rams Damaged after Inadvertently Closing on Tool String
During completion operations in the Gulf of Mexico, blind shear rams struck a test tool after drill pipe inadvertently backed off while releasing it. The alert describes equipment damage and delayed reporting, and recommends considering prompt notification, stack inspection, verification of test conditions and compliance with independent third-party requirements.
- 202026 Nov
Smouldering fire in tumble dryer
A tumble dryer overheated following dust and residue accumulation in its exhaust ducting and failure of its protective heat sensor. Laundry ignited when the machine was opened. The flash describes extinguishing the fire and recommends regular cleaning, improved maintenance access, sensor checks and suitable laundry-room heat and smoke detection.
- 202016 Oct
Deficiencies in Process Piping Cause Gas Release Incidents
BSEE describes several Gulf of Mexico gas releases involving cracked welds, leaking gaskets and corrosion beneath insulation. The alert links incidents to quality assurance and mechanical integrity deficiencies, with vibration-related fatigue a possible contributor in one case. Recommendations address piping integrity programmes, leak detection, reporting, training and maintenance of compressors and pulsation dampeners.
- 202015 Oct
Safety warning about carbon monoxide poisoning after the loss of 2 lives on the motor cruiser Diversion
This bulletin presents initial findings following two carbon monoxide deaths aboard Diversion, moored on the River Ouse in York. A non-gas-tight heater exhaust silencer and loose connection allowed fumes into the cabin. Safety lessons address marine-approved heater components, professional inspection, servicing, carbon monoxide alarm selection and testing, and suspected poisoning.
- 20205 Oct
Lifeboat Failures and Damage Occur During Maintenance
Two Gulf of Mexico lifeboat incidents during maintenance testing and inspection involved brake and winch failures, and platform contact damaging a gripe plate. Neither incident injured personnel. The alert recommends that operators consider maintenance assurance, contractor oversight, post-work verification, entry checks and maintenance pendants, alongside review of launching conditions and procedures.
- 2020Oct
MAIB Safety Digest 2/2020
A collection of marine accident lessons covering merchant vessels, commercial fishing and recreational craft. Cases examine collisions, grounding, machinery failures, overboard accidents, scalding and fire. Discussions address navigation information, lifejackets, maintenance checks and recovery arrangements. An appended provisional bulletin considers precautions for condensed aerosol fire-extinguishing systems.