201030 Gangway fall wire failure
Gangway fall wire failure
MARS Report 201030
The vessel was at anchor and a launch had been arranged for shore leave. Several crew members left the vessel via the port side gangway and the gangway was then returned to the stowed position. As the gangway reached the main deck level and was about to be brought inboard, the fall wire parted causing the end of the gangway to fall into the water, it being supported only at the upper platform turntable. Fortunately no one was on the gangway at the time and the launch had cleared the area.
Root cause/contributory factors
1. Lack of compliance with procedures Ð the fall wire failed at a damaged section that had been reported and not acted upon on two previous occasions.
2. Those aware of the damage and lack of action had not reported the matter to a more senior officer, in this case the master.
3. The fall wire had been renewed about two years back, however, investigation on board showed that some of the crew were aware that the wire had sustained further damage more recently. This had been reported to the chief officer at the time. Unfortunately, this was not acted upon, neither was the matter raised at any safety meeting nor was a near miss recorded.
4. A new chief officer joined the vessel and again, the damaged fall wire was apparently reported. Once again, no action was taken, even though the damaged section of the fall wire was visible in the stowed position being just before the drum.
Corrective/preventative actions
1. The master promptly held a safety meeting at which all present assisted in the investigation.
2. A spare wire was on board as per company requirements and this was fitted with a replacement spare being ordered immediately.
Lessons learned
All officers and crew must not hesitate in reminding their seniors if items affecting safety brought to their attention are not immediately followed up. If, following reminders the matter is still not attended to, then they must not hesitate in approaching the master or chief engineer.