202072 Windward door causes injury

07 Dec 2020 MARS

A vessel was en route in heavy weather and high winds. A crewmember attempted to exit the accommodation from the port side accommodation door on the upper deck, but had chosen the weather side of the ship. As he opened the door and stepped outside, the strong winds pushed the door back against him.
The door hit the victim in the face and he his lost balance and fell down. Two other crew observed the incident and immediately proceeded to help the victim, who was transferred to the hospital, where first aid was provided. He had sustained a gash of approximately 4cm across his face.

Lessons learned

  •  Weather conditions affect almost every activity on board. Be aware!
  •  Always try and use the doors that are in the lee, protected from the wind.