201039 Chemical splashed into eyes

Chemical splashed into eyes
MARS Report 201039

A crew member was transferring liquid chemicals from storage containers without wearing the correct personal protective equipment (PPE). During the transfer, some drops of the chemicals splashed into the crew member's eyes, resulting in temporary itching and discomfort.

What went wrong
1. The crew member did not carry out a risk assessment before the operation was commenced;
2. No toolbox meeting was carried out before carrying out this job;
3. The crew member did not use the correct PPE for the job as he was not aware of the danger involved with chemicals and the PPE required to be worn.

What went right
Quick and correct first aid response. The eyes were immediately flushed with an eye-wash solution that was readily available at the location, preventing serious injury or damage to the crew member's eyes.

Root cause analysis
Lack of compliance Ð the crew member did not follow the company's personal protective equipment matrix which highlights the correct PPE that is required at all times, and particularly for operations involving chemicals.

 

 

Corrective/preventative actions
1. All personnel are to be made aware of the company PPE matrix; this is to be posted in strategic areas around the vessel as a constant reminder and reference tool;
2. Proper toolbox meetings to be held before beginning any work so that personnel are aware of the scope of the job and the correct procedures to be followed;
3. Correct PPE is to be kept in designated work areas and maintained in good condition. This includes safety goggles, chemical apron and face shield. Eye-wash solution to be readily available at location;
4. Personnel to be reminded of the dangers that are involved in handling/using chemicals;
5. The company generic risk assessment on handling and use of chemicals is to be discussed with all as a part of the toolbox meeting.