Equipment
Wire Rope
Steel wire ropes used for lifting, mooring or other safety-critical tasks.
Newest 100 Documents
All 301 in search- 202612 Aug
Crane Failure Highlights Crane Inspection Gaps
Two platform crane incidents involved failed sheave bearings, a falling boom and a dropped cable and load block. Inspection gaps included omitted pin removal and inadequate lubrication checks. The alert recommends considering revised inspection criteria, scheduled inspections, training to recognise mechanical distress and lift planning around vessel interfaces.
- 20261 Jul
Inspect A2B Systems and Wire Rope Terminations to Prevent Crane Hazards
A lift boat crane incident involved a detached anti–two-block weight, corroded wire rope and falling components. Recoiling rope struck a nearby diver, causing minor injuries. The alert recommends considering termination maintenance, pre-use and periodic inspections, adjusted replacement intervals in corrosive environments, and competence assurance under API RP 2D.
- 20266 Jun
Poorly Maintained Crane Components Result in Multiple Personnel Injured During Transfers
Two offshore personnel-basket transfer incidents involved uncontrolled crane auxiliary-line descents and injuries. Investigations identified uncorrected component deficiencies in one case and inadequate hoist brake adjustment in the other. The alert recommends considering timely maintenance, loaded brake checks, wire-rope fouling checks, stop-work interventions, clearer transfer communications and verified medical evacuation arrangements.
- 202614 May
High Potential Near Miss: Dropped object due to contact with crane sheave
A vessel crane near miss involved a DP beacon striking sheave protection bars, detaching with its holder and falling to the deck. Nobody was injured. The flash examines wire-mounted attachment, absent secondary retention, unconsidered management of change and inadequate access controls, highlighting crane limits and third-party equipment coordination.
- 20263 Mar
Towing wire parted
A towing wire failed during barge manoeuvring after earlier snagging damage. Its excessive length for shallow water allowed it to drag along the seabed. The crew continued safely using an alternative wire. Lessons emphasise matching wire length to water depth and stopping to repair damaged equipment before resuming work.
- 202613 Feb
Positive: damage to Fast Rescue Craft davit wire rope caught before failure
Routine checks revealed a fracture at the socket termination of a fast rescue craft davit wire rope before failure occurred. An authorised service provider inspected and repaired the rope. The flash emphasises monthly maintenance, checks before every use, attention to load-bearing components and discussion of defects during crew safety meetings.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 202427 Nov
LTI: Finger injury during emergency recovery of ROV
During emergency ROV recovery using an FRC and crane, a worker’s left ring finger was pinched while releasing a hook secured to the crane wire, causing amputation to approximately the nail bed. The flash identifies an unplanned, unassessed release step and records revised procedures, risk assessment and regular recovery training.
- 202427 Nov
NTSB: Crane wire failure
This safety flash recounts a crane wire failure during offloading of a 69-tonne wind turbine nacelle into a cargo vessel’s hold. Undetected corrosion and strand-wire wear were the probable cause. It explains how grease concealed corrosion despite routine inspections and maintenance, and highlights inspection requirements and condition-dependent wire replacement intervals.
- 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.
- 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.
- 202416 Apr
Main bell wire rope failed destructive test
A diving support vessel’s main bell wire rope failed annual destructive testing after 245 bell runs. Investigation linked reduced load-bearing capacity to poor ductility from strain ageing and identified procurement outside company integrity arrangements. The flash calls for compliance with wire rope integrity requirements and oversight of chartered third-party vessels.
- 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.
- 20249 Jan
Divers lifted off seabed by Clump Weight
During subsea diving, taut wire recovery pulled two divers from the seabed to 18 m above their maximum excursion depth, risking pressure-induced injuries. Both reported well after transfer and tests. The flash identifies communication failures and missing lift planning, and describes revised diver-clearance requirements, repeat-back instructions and stop-work measures.
- 20233 Oct
LTI – fingertip pinched by wire sling
A rigger sustained a serious finger injury while fitting a steel wire sling to a forklift fork, which the operator raised without banksman instructions. The flash identifies complacency, poor communication and inadequate task assessment, and emphasises banksman signals, safe positioning and hazard-focused toolbox briefings.
- 202314 Aug
MODU mooring systems in cyclonic conditions information paper
This information paper examines cyclonic mooring risks for mobile offshore drilling units. It discusses site-specific design return periods, met-ocean and seabed inputs, component degradation, installation assurance and change management. Operational guidance covers line-tension management, inspection performance standards, emergency preparedness and consideration of position monitoring during cyclone evacuation.
- 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.
- 202320 Apr
BSEE: Person injured when safety mechanisms failed
An offshore sandblasting worker sustained head and shoulder injuries when a T-connection detached and a whip check failed. The flash discusses improper cable crimping, slightly corroded baling wire and stresses from horizontal hose positioning. Recommendations address additional securing, fitting orientation, pre-job inspection and depressurisation before valve adjustment where practical.
- 20239 Feb
High-potential near miss: Uncontrollable movement of auxiliary whip line
A vessel crane near miss involved uncontrolled auxiliary-line movement during start-up following water damage to its encoder. The wire parted, ejecting the block and hook before they fell to the deck; nobody was harmed. Lessons address encoder replacement, crane inspection, hook storage and revised procedures, risk assessments and personnel barriers.
- 202311 Jan
Blocked emergency exit hatch
A routine vessel inspection revealed an engine-room escape hatch obstructed by wire ropes left during contractor spooling work for anchor handling preparations. The obstruction was promptly corrected. Lessons emphasise keeping escape routes clear, improving oversight of third-party work and conducting regular cross-departmental safety walk-arounds.
- 2023
CHIRP Fisher Feedback Autumn 2023
CHIRP’s first commercial fishing newsletter examines pot-line propeller fouling, a conveyor fingertip injury, a lone fisher falling overboard, failed trawl hoisting, a ferry collision and recovered unexploded ordnance. Case commentary discusses maintenance isolation, work communication, wire-rope inspection, harbour navigation and personal emergency signalling and self-rescue arrangements.
- 2023
MAIB Safety Digest 1/2023
This marine accident digest examines merchant shipping, commercial fishing and recreational boating casualties. Cases address navigation, machinery maintenance, lifting, fires and people overboard. Lessons emphasise clear control indications, practical recovery drills, effective firefighting arrangements and implementation of risk assessments, with reproduced fishing safety flyers discussing personal distress beacons.
- 202214 Dec
Auxiliary Line Abrading Causes Rope Guard Failure
An auxiliary line abrading crane sheave components caused a rope guard to fail and fall approximately 100 feet near personnel below. The alert explains how high-speed line movement produces damage and recommends pre-use wear inspections and replacement of single main load line idler sheave carriers with a double sheave idler.
- 202216 Nov
Semi-submersible Mobile Offshore Drilling Unit (MODU) Unlatched From Well in Progress
A semi-submersible drilling unit was disconnected from its well and at a survival location during a storm when two mooring wires failed. Released fairleads punctured the hull and subsequently collided, sustaining significant damage. The identified primary wire failure mechanism was high-load, low-cycle bending fatigue.
- 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.
- 202226 Jul
Accidental release of free-fall lifeboat
A free-fall lifeboat fell approximately 14 m during a drill on an anchored bulk carrier, seriously injuring two crew members. The flash summarises findings on stress-corrosion cracking of sling crimp sleeves, uneven loading, unsecured occupants and absent additional restraint, alongside risks concerning sling inspection and divided supervisory attention.
- 202214 Jul
Broken Chinese Finger
A Chinese Finger connector failed during reeving of a crane’s auxiliary hoist, dropping the hoist wire into a cargo hold and the messenger wire onto the main deck. The account identifies a sharp, untapered wire end, point loading and insufficient tension resistance. Nobody was injured.
- 20224 Jul
LTI – Struck when anchor wire end pulled free of drum clamps
A crew member suffered skull fractures when an anchor wire whipped over a winch drum during wire replacement. Vessel movement tensioned the wire connected to a shoreside spooler; stoppers failed and loosened clamps released the end. The flash examines inadequate risk assessment, stopper arrangements and missing safety chains, stressing better planning.
- 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.
- 202222 Mar
MAIB: Flooding, capsize and foundering of small vessel after issues with towing wires
This flash summarises a fishing boat loss involving hull damage from trawl doors while uncrossing towing wires, unnoticed flooding and capsize. It examines absent watertight subdivision, unheard bilge alarms and abandonment to a life raft. Lessons address reassessing changed operations, checking unattended spaces, wearing lifejackets and using emergency equipment.
- 202216 Mar
Crane Anti-Two Block Weight Pulled into Boom Tip Causing Damages to Auxiliary Cable and Sheave
This alert describes repeated anti-two-block weight failures on a platform crane, with bypassed alarms and damage to the auxiliary cable and boom-tip sheave. It links an earlier sensor and chain incident to subsequent component changes, and recommends considering improved inspections, change management, operating procedures, training and oversight of safety-system bypasses.
- 202210 Feb
UK HSE: Offshore crane boom hoist failures
This flash summarises two offshore crane incidents in which boom hoist ropes left sheaves, sustained undetected damage and failed during lifting. Booms and loads fell, with no injuries reported. It discusses possible slack-rope and installation-twist mechanisms, and recommends controlled operation, manufacturer-guided stowage, retention-bar inspection and rope-seating checks.
- 20229 Feb
Flooding, capsize and sinking of prawn trawler Diamond D
Investigation of Diamond D’s flooding, capsize and sinking near Tynemouth on 16 August 2020. Hull damage from trawl doors was considered almost certain. The report examines crossed towing wires, reduced manning, unnoticed bilge alarms, pumping limitations and absent watertight subdivision, alongside liferaft abandonment and the successful rescue of both crew.
- 2022Feb
CHIRP Maritime FEEDBACK 66 (February 2022)
This maritime incident digest examines accommodation ladder failure, unsafe floating-armoury conditions, personnel falls, defective workboat lifting eyes, berthing errors, a fatal tug-line incident and a hydraulic motor fire. Commentary addresses maintenance, securing arrangements, bridge resource management, mooring briefings, human-centred deck design and collision-avoidance communication.
- 2022Jan
Offshore cranes
HSE safety notice examines two offshore crane boom hoist rope failures in 2020, when ropes displaced from sheaves became severely damaged and booms fell without injuring anyone. It discusses possible wind, slack-rope and installation-twist mechanisms, and specifies precautions concerning boom stowage, smooth operation, retention bars, pre-use checks and replacement-rope installation.
- 2022
CHIRP Annual Digest 2022
A compilation of maritime cases published during 2022, with commentary and supporting insight articles. Reports examine navigation, pilot boarding, mooring, towing, engineering maintenance and working conditions. Discussions address communication, bridge-team challenge, pressurised equipment, harness arrangements, risk assessment, permits and training, alongside examples of unsafe practice and effective intervention.
- 20212 Dec
Crew member stopped unsafe cargo operations
A Second Officer stopped third-party dock-to-vessel cargo lifting after observing an uncoloured wire set and a metal cargo box without valid certification marks. Requested assurance was not provided, so the cargo remained on the quay and was quarantined. The flash highlights stop-work authority, knowledge of colour coding and equipment checks before lifting.
- 202113 Sep
Failed lifting equipment: fatality during pipe erection activities
This safety flash describes a fatal incident at an oil refinery during pipe erection using two wire rope pulling hoists and pulleys. A pulley broke while the pipe was being lifted, allowing the rope and pipe to fall. The rope struck a worker on scaffolding, who later died in hospital.
- 20219 Sep
Immobilisation and flooding of dredger Shearwater following repeated collisions with unmanned barge Agem One
Investigation of Shearwater’s immobilisation and flooding near Kinlochbervie while towing Agem One. Towline fouling disabled propulsion, and repeated barge collisions breached the hull. The report examines towing suitability, crew competence, passage planning, HMPE tow arrangements, bilge pumping and regulatory oversight. The initial towline failure’s precise cause remained undetermined.
- 202111 Aug
US Coast Guard: Wire rope terminations
This flash summarises a US Coast Guard alert following a wire rope termination failure that damaged equipment. It discusses improper swaging, material selection and termination effects on safe working load. Recommendations cover visual examination, dimensional checks, manufacturing documentation and competent inspection before use, with attention to incorrect crimping dies.
- 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.
- 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.
- 202117 Mar
Crane wire parted during offshore operations
A vessel crane wire failed while overboarding a concrete mattress for a pipeline crossing, dropping the load before it entered the water. The flash examines unresolved magnetic rope testing results, misunderstood operational limits and absent change management, and calls for better shore–vessel communication and lift routing away from existing pipelines.
- 20214 Mar
Line of fire: deck tugger wire failure
During back-fill plough recovery, a chain sling failed under increasing tension and recoiling rigging narrowly missed deck personnel. The flash identifies unclear communication of a changed hauling method, uncertain operational responsibilities and failure to follow safe-zone requirements. Actions address toolbox talks, procedural compliance, management of change and shared understanding of tensioned-line hazards.
- 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
Rigging failure during riser recovery – soft slings parted
During riser recovery at sea, a 3.8-tonne section fell approximately 2.5 m onto the deck after sharp deadman-anchor edges cut its soft slings. Personnel remained behind barriers. The flash recommends wire rope slings, subject to a risk-assessed exception, and consideration of rounded anchors or welded pad eyes.
- 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.
- 202010 Nov
Main crane hoist wire damage
A crane hoist wire was damaged by rubbing against a knuckle aperture after the operator disengaged automatic knuckle control to activate heave compensation. The flash describes subsea wire cutting, onboard re-socketing and downtime, alongside familiarisation constraints, ignored alarms and recommendations to improve the operator interface and reinforce adherence to manufacturer instructions.
- 202010 Nov
Serious injury incurred while removing wire rope sling from a crane hook
A rigger fractured his shoulder when a wire rope sling rose suddenly during disconnection from a crane hook during vessel mobilisation. The flash identifies stored energy associated with a bend and possible torsion, absent task risk assessment and toolbox talk, and recommends generally landing the hook before disconnecting slings.
- 20209 Oct
Crushed finger injury during wire transfer operations
A seaman sustained a crushed left index finger while removing a stopper chain during tow-wire transfer aboard a vessel. Premature removal of a crowbar allowed the wire to fall onto his hand. The flash examines routine-task complacency and unreviewed risk assessment, emphasising assessment, communication and keeping hands clear.
- 202031 Jul
Uncontrolled Descent of Crane Boom
A crane boom wire parted while casing was being offloaded from a supply vessel to a rig’s cantilever deck. The main deck crane was operating on a single whip line. The load and boom fell onto stacked casing; no personal injuries were reported.
- 202023 Jun
Fall of a suspended load on general cargo vessel ZEA Servant injuring 2 crew
Investigation into injuries to two crewmen aboard ZEA Servant in Campbeltown when hatch cover lifting gear snagged and its fibre sling failed under overload. The report examines unsuitable stowage, sling condition, crew positioning within the fall zone, and missing task-specific risk assessment and lift planning. Company actions prompted no recommendations.
- 202028 Apr
Lifting operations: Wire hoist rope failure
A crane wire hoist rope failed during a standard lift, dropping the load, main block and wire approximately 3 m onto a wharf without injury. Examination identified ductile overload following internal corrosion. The flash recommends rope-specific maintenance informed by manufacturer input and risk assessment, and criteria for magnetic rope testing.
- 202028 Apr
Near miss: Dropped clump weight
A clump weight fell approximately 30 m to the deck, landing around a metre from a rigger after unintended tugger winch activation pulled rigging against a sheave and released a wedge socket connection. The flash examines control positioning, changed rigging arrangements, risk assessment and management of change.
- 202013 Feb
Dropped object near miss – Crane boom bumper stop falls off
A vessel crane bumper stop fell onto the cab during preparations for reactivation after warm stacking, without injury. Deteriorated rubber detached and a corroded secondary securing wire parted. The flash examines inspection access limitations and recommends corrosion-resistant retention, reviewing inspection arrangements and investigating materials less vulnerable to sunlight.
- 20209 Jan
Employee Struck by Drill Line When the Wire Rope Grip (Snake) Parted
A drilling crew was replacing a 2-inch drill line when the wire rope grip, known as a snake, parted as the driller took up slack using the drawworks. The line fell onto the rig floor and struck a floorman, injuring his ribs and back.
- 20196 Dec
Welder at work injured during close SIMOPS
A welder attaching lashing eyes to a deck sustained a slight neck injury from a wire while nearby crew secured reels. The flash identifies poorly managed simultaneous operations, inadequate supervision and preparation, and limited awareness of surroundings. Lessons emphasise understood toolbox talks, pre-task preparation and monitoring during hot work.
- 201922 Nov
Main ROV lift wire umbilical and bullet parted
An inspection-class ROV and its tether management system fell to the seabed during recovery after the main lift connection parted. The flash examines a recently re-terminated, load-tested bullet connection, failed potting compound and high ambient temperatures, and records procedural changes addressing temperature limits, compound quantities and storage details.
- 201925 Oct
Safety Alert 369 - Non-OEM Parts Were Significant Causal Factors in Two Recent Loss of Control of Traveling Block Incidents
Two travelling-block incidents involved incorrect non-OEM parts: a broken brake assembly pin in 2019 and improperly sized drill-line clamps and bolts in 2017. The alert recommends that operators consider drawworks inspections, manufacturer-aligned maintenance, verification of critical component dimensions and materials, and management-of-change review for non-OEM parts.
- 201917 Sep
Grease itself is a dropped object!
A near miss on an offshore vessel involved grease falling from a crane block onto the deck during lifting, without injury. The flash describes crane-wire lubrication and grease accumulation, then records stopping operations, cleaning excess grease and updating pre-use checks and toolbox talks to address falling grease.
- 20194 Sep
High potential near miss – Rescue boat davit failure (MSF)
A rescue boat davit collapsed during periodic lowering, causing the fall wire to break and the unmanned boat to fall into the water. No injuries occurred; the initial failure remained uncertain. The vessel owner required unmanned functional tests before boarding and specified component replacement and maintenance reviews.
- 201925 Jul
Crane anti-two block securing wire failure
A vessel crane’s anti-two-block suspension wires failed, allowing the weight assembly to fall along the crane wire to the block without injury. Inspection found a seized actuation lever and visual checks substituted for functional testing. The flash highlights thorough inspection, specified pre-start function tests and checks for retention-wire slack or entanglement.
- 201911 Jul
Safety Alert 360 - Collision Leads to Significant Near Miss
A vessel collision during preparations for a swing-rope personnel transfer dislodged a load block from an out-of-service crane into nearby water. Inspection revealed a broken load line and severe corrosion. BSEE recommends considering visual inspections, securing or removing blocks and headache balls, and lubricating wire ropes during prolonged inactivity.
- 201913 May
Weight dropped to the seabed narrowly missing diving bell
A winch wire trapped during preparation to launch an air-diving recovery system parted, dropping a 300 kg clump weight near a saturation diving bell and deployed divers. No injury or equipment damage occurred. The flash identifies missing pre-use checks, restricted drum visibility and loose-wrap design issues, recommending checks, visibility and drop-zone identification.
- 2019Apr
MAIB Safety Digest 1/2019
A marine accident digest examining merchant, fishing and recreational vessel casualties. Cases address collisions, groundings, mooring equipment failures, fires, flooding and fatal water-entry accidents. Lessons discuss passage planning, equipment testing, alarm accuracy, emergency arrangements and risk assessment. A reproduced bulletin examines oxygen deficiency during refrigerated salt-water tank entry.
- 201920 Mar
Near miss: Winch wire snagged and released suddenly
A land-based drilling near miss involved a winch-wire thimble snagging on the rig chassis while the mast was raised. Increasing tension bent the thimble, releasing the wire and hoist plug near the driller. Lessons address safe wire positioning, snagging checks, routine-task complacency and reviews of procedures and risk assessments.
- 201913 Feb
Hazard hunt: Pilot ladders and gangways
A fatal gangway collapse prompted a member’s focus on pilot ladders and gangways. A parted wire allowed the gangway to pivot and fall into the sea. Recommendations address periodic inspection, checks for damage and corrosion during rigging, lubrication of moving parts, underside examinations and appropriate supervision.
- 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.
- 20189 Nov
Near miss: unplanned deployment of PLET outrigger
A near miss involved unintended deployment of pipeline end termination outriggers after a rigger cut a restraining ratchet strap rather than a rope lanyard. The flash examines absent mechanical locking, changed rigging arrangements, overlooked stored energy and informal communication, with lessons on design risk review and robust management of change.
- 20183 Aug
Wire rope sling failed during lifting operations
A wire rope sling failed during chain recovery aboard an anchor handling vessel, dropping the chain onto the deck and into its locker. Nobody was injured. The damaged sling was discarded and recovery completed with a replacement. Lessons emphasise pre-operation inspections, suitable lifting equipment and a clear deck policy.
- 201827 Jul
Finger injury caused by falling wire wedge
During crane winch-wire replacement, a 15 kg wedge fell and trapped a crewman’s right hand against the deck, injuring two fingers. The flash identifies an absent holding point and grease-contaminated gloves, and describes an alternative technique using an upward-facing wire eye to support the wedge during tightening.
- 201810 May
Safety Alert 332 - Crane Hazards Identified by BSEE in Risk Based Inspections
BSEE reports findings from targeted crane risk inspections in the Gulf of Mexico following analysis of incident and compliance data. Deficiencies concern inspection effectiveness, maintenance tracking, load indicators, tag lines and competence assurance. Recommendations address lifting equipment maintenance, hand signals, personnel transfer procedures, safety communication and coordination of simultaneous operations.
- 2018Apr
Shared I-PINCs (Apr 2018) — Crane
An inspection guide presenting BSEE compliance questions for cranes and material-handling equipment, with jurisdictional qualifications for fixed OCS platforms and well operations on MODUs. It covers operating practices, safety devices, load ratings and tests, inspection records, repairs, sling identification and storage, certification, and personnel competence.
- 201819 Mar
Finger Injury During Recovery of Daughter Craft
A boatman injured his left index finger between a master link and lifting-wire thimble during daughter-craft recovery following a man-overboard exercise. The flash identifies unrestricted thimble movement and inadequate task documentation, and calls for investigating better-protecting master links and reviewing risk assessments and rescue-craft procedures.
- 201820 Feb
Safety Alert 329 - Potentially Catastrophic Crane and Lifting Incidents
This alert describes four crane and lifting incidents involving a dropped riser joint, a parted crane line, a falling crane boom and tubing escaping a bundle. One incident released diesel into the Gulf of Mexico. BSEE recommends operators consider lift planning, crane inspection and maintenance, participant training and verification of load security.
- 201831 Jan
Gangway damaged when lifting line parted
A vessel’s gangway suffered severe cracking after its lifting wire parted during stowage, allowing it to pivot and fall to water level. No injuries occurred. The flash identifies inadequate greasing and maintenance oversight, and calls for condition checks, effective wire greasing and supervisory verification.
- 201721 Dec
Failure of steel wire sling
A steel wire sling connecting two vessels failed during offshore wind farm wire pulling, damaging rigging and the winch vessel. Investigation identified low-cycle fatigue, underestimated dynamic forces and an incorrect working load limit. The flash highlights termination efficiency, equipment certification checks, continuous digital load logging and the effective clear-deck instruction.
- 201725 Oct
High potential dropped object near miss: Steel ferrule failure
A tugger-hoist wire termination failed while supporting a basket, dropping the pennant assembly and wire into it without injury. The flash identifies ferrule failure at a Flemish eye and recommends checking crimping and condition. The specified 20mm ferrules should be round, while other sizes and suppliers may use hexagonal ferrules.
- 20176 Sep
Grounding of semi-submersible rig Transocean Winner after the loss of tow from tug ALP Forward
Investigation of Transocean Winner’s grounding off the Isle of Lewis after loss of tow from ALP Forward. Analysis examines weather-driven loss of control, deteriorated wire rope, catenary and shock loading, missing windage information, passage planning and emergency towing limitations. Recommendations address towing procedures, reporting and tow-line maintenance.
- 201725 Jul
Near miss: Single wire strand protruded from original lay
A near miss during bell and clump-weight deployment involved a protruding wire strand. Following recovery, inspection identified 60 m of damaged rope for removal and re-termination. Third-party load testing preceded resumed diving. Lessons address visual inspection, defect reporting and limiting rope stress from tidal currents and adverse weather.
- 20176 Jul
Accident on the twin rig prawn trawler Sea Harvester with 1 person seriously injured
An investigation into a deckhand’s serious head injury during recovery of snagged prawn-trawling gear in the Firth of Clyde. A tensioned bridle and vessel motion expelled a guide-pole from its socket. The report examines pole construction and securing, protective equipment, crew training, regulatory compliance and uncertain wreck-position information.
- 201715 Jun
Near-miss: Fault spotted in subsea lifting wire
A diving team identified strand protrusion in a launch and recovery system clump weight wire during operations at 10 msw; no broken strand was confirmed. The flash recommends frequent monitoring, inspection before each dive, immediate defect reporting, appropriate load testing after changes and removal or disposal of affected rope.
- 20179 Jun
Near-misses during diving operations
Two diving near misses involved a bell approaching subsea lifting gear during vessel relocation and a stud bolt falling from a vessel towards a seabed worksite. A diver stopped the move, and dive control warned the exposed divers. Neither event caused injury or damage; subsequent arrangements included a dedicated tool basket.
- 20173 Mar
Clarification from NOPSEMA: Quality assurance of diving system audits
This flash relays NOPSEMA’s revised alert on inadequate diving-system audits. It identifies deficiencies in man-riding wire certification and test deferral, emergency umbilical availability, oxygen-hose condition and practicable upgrades to older systems. It stresses that audits should identify and rectify deficiencies affecting system integrity and emergency functionality.
- 201612 Oct
Collision between the stern trawler Karen and a dived Royal Navy submarine
Investigation of a submerged Royal Navy submarine snagging Karen’s trawling gear in the Irish Sea. It examines mistaken acoustic classification, passive-sonar limitations, passage appraisal, warp and winch behaviour, and the crew’s response. Restricted access to primary evidence limited causal findings; recommendations address submarine procedures, training and fishing-vessel guidance.
- 20166 Oct
Man overboard from twin rig trawler Aquarius with loss of 1 life
Investigates a fatal overboard accident east of Aberdeen during trawl-warp marking aboard Aquarius. A fibre-rope stopper failed, causing the warp to tighten and throw a crewman into the sea. Analysis examines stoppering practice, absent flotation protection, inadequate recovery preparation, fragmented rest, risk assessment shortcomings and poor onboard safety culture.
- 2016Oct
MAIB Safety Digest 2/2016
This digest draws preventive lessons from merchant, fishing and recreational vessel accidents. Cases examine groundings, collisions, capsizing, flooding, machinery injuries and fires. Analysis addresses passage planning, bridge communication, maintenance, risk assessment and emergency checklists, alongside flotation equipment and distress beacons. A reproduced bulletin discusses carbon monoxide poisoning aboard a motor cruiser.
- 201610 Aug
Lifting sling failure on freefall lifeboat
During a harbour launch-and-retrieval drill, a freefall lifeboat fell several metres after its four wire rope pennants failed. Severe corrosion concealed by plastic sheathing had weakened the pennants and obstructed inspection and maintenance. One crew member sustained a head injury. The flash highlights potentially hidden corrosion in lifting equipment.
- 201610 Aug
Mast head securing wire parted
A mast-head securing wire parted and its strop became entangled with a radar scanner, damaging the scanner cover and mast-head lighting. The flash identifies inadequate inspection and maintenance, including unnoticed corrosion, and recommends periodic inspection, tightening and replacement as necessary, with extra attention during heavy weather.
- 20166 May
First aid injury: Person struck by wire under tension
A crew member suffered minor abrasions when a slack tagging wire became taut during preparations to transfer an inline tee between vessels. The flash examines constant-tension winch operation, control-panel design, supervision and training deficiencies, and presents recommendations on equipment testing, risk assessment, staffing and emergency-stop placement.
- 20168 Mar
Capsize and sinking of twin-rig prawn trawler Kairos
Investigation of Kairos’s capsize and sinking while recovering a lost prawn trawl in very rough seas west of the Isles of Scilly. Computer-based stability analysis examines creeper-wire loading, deck swamping and probable downflooding through vents. The report also considers skipper decision-making, abandonment and the successful recovery of all five crew.
- 20164 Feb
Collapse of a mezzanine deck on board ro-ro passenger ferry St Helen
Investigation of St Helen’s partial mezzanine car-deck collapse at Fishbourne ferry terminal. A steel wire ramping rope parted during lowering, following excessive wear associated with inadequate lubrication. The report examines rope and sheave condition, consequential beam damage, maintenance management, thorough examinations and unresolved greasing non-conformities.
- 20152 Oct
Dropped object near-miss: ROV wire rope
An ROV positioning near-miss aboard a vessel released approximately 36 m of wire rope weighing 430 kg after the dome contacted a guide wire, which detached from its gantry termination. The flash reports equipment deterioration and procedural shortcomings, recommending certified guideline wires, secondary retention and specific maintenance procedures.
- 201521 Sep
Lost time injury (LTI): Rigger struck by rigging under tension
A rigger suffered left-arm fractures when a snagged ROV hook beak parted during winch hoisting, sending rigging upwards during clump-weight deployment through a vessel’s moonpool. Preliminary findings address routine-task risk perception and management of change. Further actions include reviewing hook suitability, crew positions, task procedures and risk assessments.
- 20155 Jun
ROV main lift umbilical failure
An ROV lift umbilical parted during recovery, dropping the vehicle to the seabed in 1360 m water depth. Recovery found no damage or injuries. Investigation identified hidden internal damage linked to inadequate lubricant penetration despite certification and scheduled maintenance. The flash recommends strand inspections and improved destructive-test reporting.
- 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.