Hong Kong issues a note after a fatal fall from the cargo hold tween deck access manhole

The Marine Department of the Government of Hong Kong has issued a note on a fatal fall from the access manhole on the cargo hold tween deck.

The note provides a detailed account of a tragic incident that occurred on a general cargo ship registered in Hong Kong. The ship was stationed at Morong anchorage, Indonesia, awaiting cargo loading when the accident happened. C/E, tasked with routine inspection duties, descended into the cargo hold via a fixed vertical ladder beneath an access manhole on the tween deck. Unfortunately, he fell and sustained fatal injuries.

The Incident:

The investigation identified several contributing factors to the accident. It was discovered that C/E had failed to adhere to safety protocols outlined in the "Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seafarers." These protocols required seeking explicit permission and implementing appropriate safety measures before entering confined spaces such as cargo holds. Furthermore, crew members were found to have neglected their responsibilities in securing the manhole lid and failed to conduct essential toolbox meetings and risk assessments before commencing work.

Additionally, the investigation highlighted deficiencies in the shipboard safety training program. Crew members lacked sufficient training in conducting risk assessments, holding toolbox meetings, implementing preventive measures, and wearing proper personal protective equipment. Moreover, C/E's lack of awareness regarding the potential risks associated with his inspection work in the hold further exacerbated the situation.

Lessons Learnt:

To prevent similar accidents in the future, the note stresses the following key lessons:

1. Adherence to Safety Protocols: All crew members must strictly adhere to safety protocols outlined in the "Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seafarers," including seeking permission before entering confined spaces and implementing appropriate safety measures.
2. Enhanced Training and Awareness: Shipboard safety training programs should be comprehensive and effective, covering critical aspects such as risk assessment, toolbox meetings, implementation of preventive measures, and proper use of personal protective equipment.
3. Rigorous Safety Procedures: Crew members must diligently follow safety procedures, including securing manhole lids, conducting toolbox meetings and risk assessments before commencing work, and maintaining heightened awareness of potential hazards in the workplace.

This note was published on 2 May 2024.

For more information, please see the documents below (available only to subscribers):

A Fatal Fall from the Access Manhole on the Cargo Hold Tween Deck