200422 Fall in Ballast Tank

Fall in Ballast Tank
MARS Report 200422

A visiting Superintendent was inspecting a ballast tank on board a company vessel recently. A photographic record of the ballast tank was being compiled and whilst attempting to capture the image of a damaged 'stiffener', the Superintendent stepped backwards and partially fell through a lightening hole in one of the longitudinal stringers.

The Superintendent suffered bruising to his right arm, right lower chest and possible fractured ribs. Lighting was by hand held 'Wolf Lights', the vessel was at anchor with little or no movement, no additional guard ropes were in place in way of the openings in the longitudinal strength members of the tank in question. Whilst the injury suffered was minor, the situation could have been much worse had the Superintendent fallen completely through to the lower levels of the tank.

Conclusion

Great care should be exercised when working in enclosed spaces and attention should be focused on the potential hazards associated with tank entry. In particular unguarded openings in such spaces, which by their nature can not be made safe with guard wires or fences.

Recommendations

• Where possible additional portable lighting should be provided in enclosed spaces when being inspected or work is being carried out.
• Lightening holes should be covered or otherwise guarded if it is practical to do so.
• At least two persons should work together whilst in enclosed spaces to ensure a watch is kept on co-workers to prevent trips and falls due to carelessness.