Control
Operational Supervision
Supervision arrangements and oversight of work.
Newest 100 Documents
All 501 in search- 202614 May
Worker suffered crush injury while handling unstable steel plates
A worker holding vertically balanced steel plates sustained hand, wrist and finger fractures when a plate toppled, trapping their hand and wrist. The flash examines temporary storage, removed sea fastenings, limited workspace and inadequate task risk assessment, highlighting how local conditions and past experience shaped the work.
- 202628 Apr
Heaving line snap-back causes injury
A tensioned heaving line broke during berthing, causing quayside workers to fall. One suffered a head impact after an unsecured helmet chin strap allowed the helmet to shift. The flash identifies missing inspections, congestion and inadequate supervision, and recommends line checks, safer positioning and stopping unsafe work.
- 202615 Apr
UK HSE: electrician seriously injured on onshore wind farm
An electrician sustained life-changing injuries during substation maintenance at an onshore wind farm. The investigation identified departure from a prepared switching programme and inadequate checking and change approval processes. The flash highlights safe work systems, management of change, coordination of parallel tasks, electrical-work review and supervision.
- 202626 Mar
Fatal accident to a crew member on board the roll-on/roll-off cargo vessel Laureline
Investigates a crew member’s fatal crushing between a reversing trailer and Laureline’s structure during cargo operations at Purfleet. CCTV review and scene inspection informed analysis of driver–crew communication, danger-zone definitions, training and supervision. The report examines procedural weaknesses, subsequent safety actions and recommendations for an industry vehicle-deck code of practice.
- 20263 Mar
BSEE: Falling corroded crane component results in near miss
A corroded crane boom cable runner fell approximately 16 m during maintenance on an offshore platform, landing approximately 6 m from personnel. The flash describes outstanding inspection repairs, incomplete hazard identification and absent barricades, with lessons on inactive equipment, dropped-object controls and workforce involvement in pre-job planning.
- 202612 Jan
High potential dropped object - cradle falls from trailer
Two cradle inserts fell from a trailer before lifting rigging was fully tensioned, with four personnel nearby but no injuries or equipment damage. The flash identifies unstable upright storage, premature removal of securing straps, deficient lift documentation and communication, and conflicting banksman duties. Lessons address lift planning and understanding load geometry.
- 202522 Dec
Criteria for registration and deregistration guidance note
NOPSEMA explains how it assesses nominations and removes facility operators from its registers. The guidance centres on practical day-to-day authority, a single accountable entity and oversight of specialist contractors. It also addresses operator changes across facility life stages, notification requirements, representations before removal and statutory operator duties.
- 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.
- 20255 Dec
Falling Corroded Crane Component Results in Near Miss
A corroded crane boom cable runner fell approximately 50 feet during maintenance on an offshore platform, landing approximately 20 feet from personnel. The alert identifies uncompleted inspection repairs, incomplete hazard identification and absent barricading, and recommends considering improved job safety analysis, supervision and maintenance follow-through.
- 20254 Dec
Dropped pallet during cargo transfer
A plastic pallet carrying lubricant drums tipped and fell during a barge-to-vessel lift at an anchorage, rupturing drums and spilling oil on deck without injury or structural damage. The flash examines inadequate securing, procedural non-compliance and crew coordination, and describes improved load checks, secondary securing, toolbox meetings and supervision.
- 20257 Nov
Bunker hose obstructing emergency exit
A bunker hose on an offshore vessel prevented a stern emergency hatch from opening, potentially blocking escape. The flash discusses hose routing, crew supervision and incorporating engine-room escape into bunkering risk assessments and toolbox talks. It stresses keeping exits clear and asks whether barriers or signage could prevent obstruction.
- 202525 Sep
Collision between the tender to Isabell Princess of the Sea and the RIB Vega, resulting in one fatality
Investigation of a fatal collision between a yacht tender and the drifting RIB Vega in Göcek harbour. It examines unsafe speed, night visibility, unused chart-plotter information, possible alcohol impairment and unclear command authority. The passenger died from collision injuries and drowning; subsequent actions addressed tender operations, authority and navigation-light compliance.
- 202517 Sep
Unsafe Lifting practices during dry dock
This safety flash describes a stopped attempt to lift 14 empty oil drums with only a web sling during dry-dock vessel repairs. It identifies inadequate contractor oversight, absent task-specific risk assessment and communication, and underestimated falling-load hazards. Lessons emphasise closer supervision, lifting training, toolbox talks and stop-work authority.
- 20254 Sep
Two hand injuries caused during mooring
Two mooring incidents involved a hand trapped by a tightening line during rough weather and a finger crushed between a rope and handrail, requiring amputation. Lessons address dedicated fender mooring points, task risk assessment, supervisory roles, stopping unsafe work and considering postponement when weather causes vessel movement.
- 202514 Aug
Shore-side crane boom collides with vessel mast
A dock crane boom struck a vessel mast during shipyard lifting, dislodging wind and GPS sensors onto the deck. The flash describes poor visibility, ineffective banksman positioning and crane movement without signals. Discussion actions emphasise banksman roles, clear communication and providing dockyard management with vessel layout and dimensions before operations.
- 202531 Jul
Dive chamber procedures and operations
A chamber operator began venting an outer lock while a diver remained inside following surface decompression diving. Recompression and treatment for omitted decompression followed; the diver remained asymptomatic. The flash examines assumptions, poor visibility and missing transfer checks, stressing diver signals and operator and supervisor verification before venting.
- 20253 Jul
High potential incident: Worker injured when opening a flanged assembly
A worker dismantling emergency shutdown valves on deck sustained a forehead wound when trapped line pressure expelled a gasket. The flash identifies missing pressure checks and monitoring after isolation, alongside water ingress during subsea diving work. Actions included supervised pre-start checks, pressure-checking and venting hold points, and closer line monitoring.
- 202516 May
MSF: Multiple LTIs - Vessel gangway fell from quay causing injuries
Five workers were injured when a container vessel’s gangway moved off the quay; one fell into the water. Tidal movement had positioned the gangway partly over a ladder void. The flash identifies absent supervision, slack hoist wires and faded markings, and presents suggestions on positioning, procedures, checks, signage and correct PPE use.
- 202519 Mar
Injuries during lifting operations
Two lifting incidents caused minor injuries: crane two-blocking parted a wire and dropped lifting gear, while excess loading of a soft sling released a shackle during component alignment. Common findings concerned operator competence, supervision and line-of-fire awareness. Lessons emphasise experienced personnel, active supervision and keeping people clear of danger.
- 202520 Feb
LTI: Fall from height during FRC maintenance
A mechanic reinstalling a fast rescue boat engine on a laid-up vessel lost balance while standing on a cable-covering pipe and fell 2.33 m to the main deck, fracturing his left leg. The flash identifies absent fall protection, risk assessment, toolbox discussion and supervision, and stresses planning and stop-work authority.
- 202523 Jan
Accident to chief engineer on board motor yacht Baton Rouge with loss of 1 life
Investigation of a chief engineer’s fatal electrocution during ventilation damper actuator replacement aboard Baton Rouge in Antigua. It examines work on a live circuit, unused permit arrangements, heat, inadequate monitoring and rescue planning, and conflicting enclosed-space definitions. Management revised its procedures; the report makes no recommendations.
- 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.
- 202427 Nov
Hot work performed outside of Permit to Work (PTW) boundary limit
A contractor used a cutting torch and grinding disc to remove a metal trip hazard from a vessel deck outside the permitted work area. Sparks and slag fell onto scaffolding boards and an electrical cable below. The flash highlights failures in assessment, communication and supervision, recommending improved permit training and job preparation.
- 202424 Oct
Dropped sheave and clump weight
During wind turbine monopile installation, a clump weight was hoisted into a sheave, breaking it and dropping both components onto the deck. No injuries occurred, but equipment damage and a hydraulic oil spill resulted. The flash highlights simultaneous winch operation, inadequate observation, absent automatic stops and lessons on lift oversight and stopping unsafe work.
- 202424 Oct
UK HSE: Incident during rig decommissioning leads to fatality
An IMCA flash summarises HSE findings from gas-rig dismantling ashore. A skirt pile weighing more than 27 tonnes struck a mobile elevating work platform, throwing two workers to ground about 12 metres below. One died; another sustained life-changing injuries. Findings highlight inadequate planning, risk assessment and supervision, with no cutting plan or safe system of work.
- 20244 Sep
BSEE Safety Alert 488 - Flash Fires During Welding Operations
A flash fire and blast during nozzle tack welding on a fuel gas scrubber propelled a tied-off welder against a rail without injury. Subsequent flammability readings ranged from 0 to 70% LEL. BSEE recommends considering improved atmospheric checks, ventilation, hot-work protocols, supervision, training and protective equipment.
- 202429 Aug
Parted tag line caused damage during lifting operations
A tag line failed under excessive tension during crane recovery of a 2.4-tonne LiDAR buoy to a vessel deck. Unexpected buoy movement struck a worker without injury and damaged the buoy and vessel. The flash examines deficient recovery procedures, lift planning, briefing, supervision and training, and records corrective planning and training actions.
- 202414 Aug
Angle Grinder Finger Injury
A worker fractured their left little finger between a table and wrench while changing an angle grinder’s wire wheel. The flash identifies an incorrect method, absent formal training, missing impact-resistant gloves and failures in permits, risk assessment and supervision. Actions included revised assessment, formal training and review of supervisors’ responsibilities.
- 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
Dropped halogen lamp caused small fire
During night-time painting aboard a vessel, wind gusts toppled a halogen lamp from scaffolding, igniting a board below. Nobody was injured; the lamp was destroyed and the board damaged. The flash highlights unattended equipment during breaks, stability checks, weather awareness and consideration of LED alternatives.
- 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.
- 202418 Jun
UK MAIB: Person injured during lifting of compressor
A contractor was crushed beneath a suspended 1865 kg compressor when a departing vessel rolled slightly. The flash examines unsuitable lifting attachments, unsecured steel bars and an offset centre of mass. It stresses competent lift planning, appropriate supervision and coordination with vessel personnel over departure timing and environmental conditions.
- 202422 May
US BSEE: Welding and burning hazards
This flash summarises BSEE inspection findings on welding and burning hazards at Gulf of Mexico production and well-operation sites. It describes potential fires, including suspected slag penetration beneath living quarters, and highlights flammable materials, inadequate training and conflicting fire-watch duties. Recommendations address protective barriers, competence, supervision and pre-job discussions.
- 202430 Apr
Trapped finger during mooring operations
A deckhand trapped his right-hand fingers while placing a spliced mooring line over bitts. Insufficient slack and forward vessel movement were identified as immediate causes. The flash discusses familiarisation, supervision, risk assessment and impact gloves, alongside line-handling alternatives and stopping the vessel where practicable.
- 202430 Apr
UK MAIB: Crew member injured by rotating crank handle – LTI
A tug crew member suffered a fractured wrist when a coupling winch’s attached crank handle spun as tensioned barge lines were released. The flash examines failure to remove the handle under the operating procedure, restricted supervisory visibility, dynamic risk assessment and toolbox talks, noting that CCTV could help.
- 20244 Apr
BSEE Risk Based Inspection Identifies Welding and Burning Hazards
BSEE summarises targeted inspections of Gulf of Mexico production and well-operation facilities that identified welding and burning hazards. Findings include damaged or poorly positioned fire barriers, nearby flammables, deficient planning and training, and conflicting fire-watch duties. Operators and contractors are encouraged to consider improvements to protection, competence, procedures and supervision.
- 202419 Mar
Person pulled to deck by fall arrest harness
A swinging crane whip line caught a worker’s fall-arrest wire during moonpool preparations, pulling them to the deck; no injuries were reported at the time. The flash identifies communication, planning and supervision shortcomings during parallel activities, and recommends clearer communication, conditional tagline use and careful harness connection-point selection.
- 202419 Feb
Hot work whilst working at height in a confined space – job was stopped
A contractor’s welder was observed flame-cutting inside a vessel’s ballast tank on a wooden platform over 1.80 m high, without fall protection. Work was stopped and a harness, inertia reel and tripod arrangement introduced temporarily. The flash identifies missing permits, an unreviewed risk assessment and inadequate supervision.
- 20236 Dec
LTI: Gangway collapsed
A gangway collapsed during departure from vessels alongside in a shipyard, fracturing both of a person's heels. Scaffolding obstructed complete gangway removal during engine tests. The flash identifies absent barriers, signs, watchkeeping and lighting, and recommends better communication, crew supervision and secure restriction of hazardous access.
- 202330 Nov
Grounding of general cargo vessel BBC Marmara
Investigation of BBC Marmara’s grounding at Eilean Trodday examines a sleeping watch officer, alcohol consumption, absent lookout and disabled bridge watch alarm. It analyses electronic passage planning, ineffective shipboard management and falsified records, alongside distracted coastguard monitoring. Recommendations address crew resources and coastguard cognitive performance.
- 202316 Oct
Unprotected openings in floor grating – work stopped
Grating removal on a horizontal lay system exposed an opening through which someone could have fallen. Work was stopped without injury or dropped objects. The flash identifies underestimated height risks, absent work authorisation and unclear instructions, and describes supervision improvements and assessment of accessible lifting points to avoid removing grating.
- 202312 Sep
Fatality due to fire incident and fall from height
A rope access technician undertaking pipelay tower maintenance suffered a fatal fall from approximately 8.5 m after welding particles ignited solvent and fire melted the body harness. The flash examines independently authorised, conflicting work and highlights coordinated permits, shared planning, whole-operation supervision and effective stop-work authority.
- 20233 Aug
High potential: dropped chain assembly
A 2.3 kg chain assembly fell 10 m during lowering, grazing a worker’s helmet without injury. Wind displaced a soft sling, whose fibres prevented the hook latch from locking. The flash highlights unsafe positioning, poor visibility and absent communication, recommending correct rigging placement, clear lifting areas and supervision.
- 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.
- 202324 Jul
Restricted air supply to diver
A diver recovery drill was aborted after uneven basket recovery strained and kinked a standby diver’s umbilical, restricting his main air supply and prompting bailout. Both divers reached the surface safely. The flash identifies communication, planning and supervision shortcomings, and emphasises umbilical management and incorporating incident learning into procedures.
- 202313 Jul
Finger injury during shackle handling
A crew member suffered a left middle finger crush injury while removing a 35 tonne SWL shackle during pennant wire spooling. The flash identifies incorrect shackle size, absent last-minute risk assessment and failure to intervene, and recommends appropriate tools rather than hands to release heavy shackles.
- 20231 Jul
BSEE: Lack of training with hydraulic torque wrench contributes to fatality
A drillship crew member died after a stuck hydraulic torque wrench was freed under applied tension and shot upwards during riser disconnection. The flash identifies unrecognised tool limitations, inadequate training and communication, and supervisory shortcomings. Actions address job safety analysis, formal training, stop-work intervention and tool compatibility.
- 202324 May
Hand injury while using manual torque tool
A project engineer assisting with bolt torquing injured his hand when it slipped between a force multiplier’s reaction bar and a gooseneck. The flash identifies gaps in supervision, role briefing, toolbox-talk participation and training, and calls for clear responsibilities, inclusive briefings and understood stop-work authority.
- 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.
- 20234 Apr
LTI finger injury during mooring operations
An able seaman broke his left index finger while unmooring after ship-to-ship refuelling, losing 45 days of work. The flash identifies poor glove condition, insufficient rope slack, absent rope extensions and inadequate oversight of inexperienced personnel. Lessons address supervision, rope extensions and sufficient slack during handling.
- 202313 Mar
Lift bag near miss
A lift bag escaped its intended rigging during spool over-boarding and was arrested by contingency rigging. The flash examines inappropriate attachment, undocumented rigging changes, unclear diver communications and task-generic procedures. Lessons emphasise single-person rigging accountability, task-specific instructions, reduced multitasking and thorough communication during personnel changes.
- 20238 Mar
Khamsin Drillship Fatality (update)
A drillship crewmember died after a stuck hydraulic torque wrench, tensioned with a hydraulic utility winch, released upwards and struck him during riser bolt removal. The alert identifies training, communication, design and oversight shortcomings, and recommends operators and contractors consider improved job analysis, training, stop-work intervention and observer responsibilities.
- 20239 Feb
Air hose connection failure
An air hose detached from a tugger winch coupling after use; nobody was injured. The flash describes an incorrect adapter, a homemade connection and improperly installed whip checks. It recommends manufacturer-specified hose-barb adapters, correctly positioned whip checks and adequately resourced planned maintenance.
- 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.
- 202311 Jan
Incorrect gangway rigging
Two cases illustrate unsafe gangway arrangements: placement near an unbarriered quay drop with an incorrectly mounted safety net, and deformation over a bollard as propeller wash moved a vessel. Lessons address inclination limits, fencing, safety nets, positioning, assessment of vessel movement risks and adequate gangway watch.
- 2023
CHIRP Maritime FEEDBACK 71 (Summer 2023)
This maritime digest examines engine defects, misleading master–pilot exchanges, language barriers, a power shutdown, a yacht collision and repeated falls from a paint raft. Commentary addresses commercial pressure, communication and supervision. A separate article describes automated tank cleaning with high-pressure spinning nozzles and remote drone inspections to reduce enclosed-space entry.
- 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.
- 202224 Oct
BSEE: Stored Energy in Slings Causes Multiple Injuries
This flash summarises BSEE reports of facial injuries to offshore personnel in the Gulf of Mexico from released energy in slings and a dislodged shackle. Recommendations for consideration address body positioning, rigging checks, work procedures, hazard awareness, stop-work rights, and increased training and supervision for inexperienced crew.
- 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.
- 202226 Sep
BSEE – “Green hats” – training and supervision of short service employees
This safety flash summarises BSEE concerns about incidents involving short service employees, including maintenance and rig-floor hand injuries and gaps in safety-system testing competence. Recommendations address practical training, competency assessment, qualified mentoring, limits on new-to-experienced crew ratios, workload evaluation and adequate supervision of inexperienced personnel.
- 20225 Sep
Chemical burns to body
A recently joined vessel engineer suffered a severe chemical burn while decanting carbon remover for purifier maintenance. Posted instructions were not followed and chemical PPE was not worn; a less hazardous alternative was available. Lessons emphasise comprehensive familiarisation, supervised induction, competence assessment and confidence to stop unsafe work.
- 20225 Sep
Personal injury – burns from hot engine oil to body and face
An engineer suffered burns when hot fuel sprayed onto his body and face while opening a main-engine fuel oil filter aboard a vessel alongside. The flash identifies inadequate risk assessment, improper compressed-air isolation, omitted pressure checks and draining, and failures to follow procedures. Lessons emphasise thorough assessment, supervision and adherence to instructions.
- 202214 Jul
Mooring deck accident on general cargo vessel Teal Bay with loss of 1 life
Investigation of a fatal mooring deck accident aboard Teal Bay during ship-to-ship grain loading at Kavkaz South anchorage. A tensioned spring line escaped an open roller fairlead during warping. The report examines upward line leads, shared fairlead use, insufficient crewing, planning and risk assessment, and delays in coordinating medical evacuation.
- 202231 May
Surface decompression near-miss
A surface decompression near-miss involved an unintended chamber depth reduction from 12msw to 5msw following a SURDO2 dive. Divers remained symptom-free. The account identifies an incompletely closed exhaust valve and supervisor distraction, and describes revised operating responsibilities, venting and depth alarms, and camera monitoring.
- 20224 May
Riggers injured while disconnecting rigging
Three riggers were injured while disconnecting timber-pad rigging on a nearshore cargo barge. Unexpected vessel movements tensioned the slings, striking an arm and two workers’ hands. The flash identifies insufficient slack and premature disconnection, emphasising allowance for vessel motion, supervisor instructions and consideration of leaving rigging attached.
- 202228 Apr
Reducing incidents through increasing training and supervision of Short Service Employees
BSEE highlights incidents and inspection findings involving short-service employees in offshore oil and gas work. Examples include maintenance and rig-floor injuries and unfamiliarity with safety-system testing. Operators are asked to consider hands-on training, competency assessment, qualified mentoring, limits on short-service employee proportions and oversight of workload and high-risk assignments.
- 202225 Apr
Toppled Hydraulic Workover Unit Results in Fatality
This preliminary alert describes a fatal hydraulic workover unit toppling on a Gulf of Mexico caisson. An elevated, harnessed contractor fell into the water with part of the unit. Initial observations identified a casing break; causes remained under investigation. Recommendations address structural capacity, support arrangements, fall protection design, supervision and task planning.
- 202221 Apr
Communications: LTI finger injury during lifting operations
A rigger suffered a crushed ring finger requiring fingertip amputation during vessel demobilisation, when hoisting began with a hook still attached to a container lifting eye. The flash examines disputed hand signals, inadequate lift planning, unclear banksman responsibilities and unsuitable glove impact ratings, recommending clearer communication and documented demobilisation planning.
- 20228 Apr
Riggers struck/trapped by pipe section
This safety flash describes riggers struck by a suspended pipe moving sideways during transfer to a pipelayer conveyor, with one trapped against a handrail and suffering a back fracture. Findings address crane slew, supervision and conflicting positioning instructions. Lessons emphasise confirmed communications, clearly defined safe positions and maintaining awareness during repetitive work.
- 202211 Mar
Fatal fall from collapsing scaffolding on a merchant vessel
A sailor died after scaffolding and a crane maintenance platform collapsed aboard a merchant vessel. Seriously corroded securing bolts failed under load, while his harness lanyard snapped. The flash identifies shortcomings in risk assessment, supervision, scaffold configuration, work instructions, harness maintenance and training.
- 202211 Mar
Line of fire: pinched finger between door and frame
An ROV operator sustained a fingertip laceration when a control-van door closed against his left index finger, requiring medivac and reconstructive surgery. The flash identifies an unrepaired door-closing spring mechanism and ineffective hazard familiarisation, and recommends functioning door closers, planned maintenance, regular inspection, induction, mentoring and supervision.
- 2022Mar
Personal protective equipment at work
Guidance explains the amended PPE at Work Regulations and the use of personal protection as a last resort. It addresses suitability, fit, compatibility, maintenance, storage, training and supervision, with practical selection advice for body protection, buoyancy equipment and personal fall-protection systems.
- 202228 Feb
UK HSE: Poor control of work – worker suffered serious injuries
This safety flash describes serious hand and arm injuries during conveyor repair when the line restarted. The supervisor became distracted before completing the permit to work and isolation. It reports the supervisor’s sentencing for safety breaches and highlights failure to implement company procedures for these controls.
- 202217 Feb
Collision between rigid inflatable boat Rib Tickler and a personal watercraft with loss of 1 life
Investigates a fatal collision in the Menai Strait involving Rib Tickler and a personal watercraft jumping its wake. Examines lookout, separation, helm experience and supervision, alongside local navigation risk assessment and personal watercraft legislation. Discusses training gaps and recommendations concerning guidance, harbour powers and maritime-team resources.
- 202210 Feb
Cargo shifted during heavy weather
Heavy rolling broke strapping securing metal beam stacks aboard a vessel in transit, leaving seven stacks collapsed or shifted and three moved less. The flash identifies unsuitable loading and lashing, ineffective communication and inadequate supervision. Actions address cargo-securing training, close loading supervision and additional lashings in certain weather conditions.
- 20212 Dec
UK HSE: Employee in shipyard killed by falling steel post
An IMCA safety flash describes a fatal incident during adaptation of a vessel-launching bogie. A steel side-post weighing approximately 1800 kg fell and struck an employee. HSE found slackened securing bolts, absent support and deficiencies in risk assessment, safe working arrangements, training and supervision.
- 20212 Dec
Watch your hands!! Person injured while using an angle grinder
A crew member sustained severe left-arm lacerations while cutting washing-machine dunnage with an angle grinder fitted with a wood-cutting disc. Vessel movement preceded loss of control. The flash identifies absent guarding, unsecured timber and inadequate work preparation, and recommends suitable tools, risk assessment, toolbox talks and supervision.
- 202119 Nov
Diver finger injury from Lionfish fin ray
A diver’s right thumb was punctured through a glove while trying to push away a lionfish. Recovery by diving bell enabled medical treatment. The flash describes glove suitability review, refresher training and risk assessment updates, alongside dive briefings, supervisor video monitoring and increased buddy watching for venomous fish.
- 202119 Nov
MOB: Person fell into water during gangway installation
A crew member fell into the water while attempting to lift a portable gangway to free another person’s trapped foot, and was recovered without injury. The flash identifies communication failures, tiredness, insufficient staffing and absent risk assessment, recommending toolbox talks, improved bridge–deck coordination and sufficient supervised, rested crew.
- 202115 Oct
Rope under tension parted on deck
During winch-wire recovery ahead of an export cable shore pull, an unapproved polypropylene rope became tensioned, parted and struck a supervisor’s helmet aboard a cable lay vessel. Nobody was harmed. The flash identifies departures from approved rigging, absent workboat supervision and language barriers, emphasising procedural review, task coordination and appropriate bilingual support.
- 20211 Oct
MAIB: Crush fatality during lifting operations
This safety flash summarises MAIB findings on a fatal crushing aboard Cimbris during hatch cover lifting. It highlights restricted operator visibility, the absence of a lookout, inadequate planning and supervision, and poor communication. Company actions included mandatory safety sentries, reviewed procedures and an instruction card defining lookout duties.
- 2021Oct
Wheeled loading shovels
This safety notice addresses fatal vehicle–pedestrian collisions involving wheeled loading shovels, particularly in waste and recycling. It examines restricted visibility and larger buckets, emphasising strict pedestrian segregation while camera systems remain unproven or unavailable. It also discusses transport risk assessments, visibility aids, daily checks, driver training and enforcement of site rules.
- 202122 Sep
Crush incident on general cargo vessel Cimbris with loss of 1 life
MAIB investigates a stevedore’s fatal crushing during hatch-cover movement aboard Cimbris at Antwerp Bulk Terminal. The report examines restricted crane-operator visibility, the absence of a banksman, lifting arrangements and ship–shore coordination. It identifies weak safety cultures and records procedural changes and recommendations for the vessel manager and port labour federation.
- 202122 Sep
Electrician suffered flash burn to hand
An electrician suffered a hand flash burn while checking insulation on a 690-volt bus bar aboard a vessel in dry dock. The switchboard became live after an unguarded status switch changed and the power management system closed a breaker. Lessons address isolation, shipyard work permits, supervision and communication.
- 202113 Sep
LTI: person injured when hook parted during lifting operations
Two crew members were injured when an inappropriate spring snap hook failed during lifting of a cable-installation plough depth skid weighing around 320 kg. They were calibrating beneath the load. Actions included modifying and testing the pad eye, training on qualified lifting gear, and revising risk assessment and supervision of crew positioning.
- 202113 Sep
UK HSE: Employee fatally injured while moving heavy equipment
A worker suffered fatal head injuries when a heavy milling machine toppled during relocation using a forklift and machine-moving skates. The flash reports failures in task assessment, planning, safe working arrangements, instructions and supervision, alongside inadequate skate maintenance and inspection.
- 202122 Jul
MAIB: fatality during transfer from a workboat to a barge
A fish farm assistant manager was crushed between a moving workboat and a feed barge during transfer onto an access ladder, then fell into the water and drowned. The flash identifies inadequate planning, supervision, risk assessment and emergency preparedness, recommending transfer planning, recovery drills and sufficient trained, experienced crew.
- 20212 Jun
UK HSE: Employee in a port suffers life changing injuries in clamp truck incident
A port employee suffered injuries requiring leg amputation after being struck by a five-tonne clamp truck in a paper reel shed. The flash describes unsafe pedestrian–vehicle interaction, inadequately reviewed supervisory activities and missed learning from earlier incidents. HSE recommends separating pedestrians through physical barriers or clear, well-supervised safe systems of work.
- 202125 May
Crush incident during transfer from workboat Beinn Na Caillich to a feed barge with loss of 1 life
Investigation of a fatal transfer at Ardintoul fish farm, where a worker was crushed between a moving workboat and a feed barge ladder, then drowned after slipping out of his lifejacket. The report examines transfer planning and supervision, crotch straps, recovery preparedness and marine safety management, recommending fleet standards and management expertise.
- 202111 May
Crush incident on scallop dredger Olivia Jean with loss of 1 life
Investigates a fatal head injury aboard scallop dredger Olivia Jean during attempts to free snagged dredge gear. The engineer was probably struck by a towing bar swinging inboard. Analysis examines deck supervision, restricted winch-operator visibility, language barriers, training, risk reassessment and weak safety management, alongside subsequent actions and recommendations.
- 20218 Apr
Dropped object – Crane auxiliary block dropped from crane boom
A vessel crane’s 30 kg auxiliary block fell approximately 30 metres onto the main deck during preparations for load and rock testing. Double blocking and failed overload protection were identified. The flash discusses permit controls, restricted deck access, daily crane checks and banksman positioning, including additional spotters where applicable.
- 2021Apr
MAIB Safety Digest 1/2021
A marine accident digest presenting separate lessons for merchant shipping, fishing vessels and recreational craft. Cases examine unsafe access, lifting gear, engine fires, navigation, capsize and flooding. Discussions address risk assessment, supervision, casualty recovery, mooring checks and navigation aids. Appendix coverage dates refer specifically to investigations started, rather than incident dates.
- 202119 Feb
MAIB: Fatal accident during cargo operations on Karina C
This flash summarises MAIB findings on a fatal crushing aboard Karina C involving a moving gantry crane and hatch covers. It highlights inadequate supervision, poor communication, weak safety culture and unenforced alcohol policy. Alcohol probably impaired judgement; tiredness might also have influenced actions. Reporting followed postmortem findings and CCTV examination.
- 202119 Jan
Dutch Safety Board: Fatality when mooring line snapped
This safety flash summarises a fatal mooring-line recoil aboard RN Privodino while entering a lock. It examines transfer between winch drums while the vessel was moving, communication failures and restricted supervision. Lessons address vessel positioning before tensioning lines, supervisors’ workload and changing snap-back danger areas.
- 202119 Jan
Wells Personnel Competency Management System – Issue 6
An HSE inspection guide for assessing wells personnel competence management systems. It sets performance criteria and interview, record-sampling and scoring frameworks, covering individual and team assessment, contractor assurance, assessor training and external audit. Discussion includes non-technical skills, well-control drills and simulation-based training for challenging wells.
- 2021
MAIB Safety Digest 2/2021
A collection of merchant, fishing and recreational vessel cases examines navigation errors, mooring hazards, machinery fires, flooding and immersion. Lessons address task planning, supervision, maintenance, enclosed-space precautions and emergency readiness. Appendices list investigations and reports and reproduce provisional guidance on anchor failures during prolonged cruise-ship anchoring.
- 202016 Dec
Broken finger during ROV maintenance
A short service employee fractured his right ring finger while removing an ROV bumper bar alone above head height. The bar snagged, then fell when he could not support its approximately 29 kg weight. Lessons emphasise task assessment, planning, supervision, competence, mentoring and pre-work toolbox talks.
- 20206 Dec
UK HSE: Fatal incident using high pressure water jetting equipment
This safety flash describes a fatal injury during removal of paint residue from pipes with a high-pressure jet washer. The worker was struck by the flexi-lance end. HSE found missing pressure regulation and anti-ejection controls, alongside inadequate training and supervision, and prosecuted the company.
- 20204 Nov
Collision between 2 fire and rescue service boats with loss of 1 life
Investigation of a fatal collision between two fire-service rescue boats during training and familiarisation. A firefighter suffered a fatal head injury when struck by the other boat. The report examines uncoordinated manoeuvres, ineffective lookout, planning, supervision, risk assessment, crew competence and gaps in boat operating standards.
- 202028 Sep
Deliberate failure to follow instructions: unsafe/quarantined tools brought back into use
A vessel inspection found crew using a quarantined selector-switch grinder because approved paddle-switch models were considered too bulky. The flash identifies unsecured quarantine storage and inadequate supervision. It recommends making quarantined devices temporarily unusable or locking them away, and reports a hazard hunt for selector-switch grinders.