Crane incident
- Safety Flash
- Published on 1 March 2001
- Generated on 18 May 2026
- IMCA SF 03/01
- 1 minute read
We have received information concerning part of the manufacturer’s name plate, weighing 250 g, falling off of an offshore crane on an offshore installation, landing 21 m below on an over-side scaffold at deck level.
There was no-one on the scaffold at the time and no work was ongoing in the immediate vicinity.
The following initial findings were identified:
- The sign had been installed onto handrails on the crane’s ‘A’ frame since the unit’s construction.
- Failure of the sign had occurred through the fixing bolt hole, due to metal fatigue which, in turn, was caused by the operational vibration of the handrail.
- The sign was in poor condition and had a number of cracks throughout its length. A similar sign on the opposite side of the crane appeared to be in good condition.
The company involved has removed similarly installed signs from other cranes.
IMCA Safety Flashes summarise key safety matters and incidents, allowing lessons to be more easily learnt for the benefit of the entire offshore industry.
The effectiveness of the IMCA Safety Flash system depends on the industry sharing information and so avoiding repeat incidents. Incidents are classified according to IOGP's Life Saving Rules.
All information is anonymised or sanitised, as appropriate, and warnings for graphic content included where possible.
IMCA makes every effort to ensure both the accuracy and reliability of the information shared, but is not be liable for any guidance and/or recommendation and/or statement herein contained.
The information contained in this document does not fulfil or replace any individual's or Member's legal, regulatory or other duties or obligations in respect of their operations. Individuals and Members remain solely responsible for the safe, lawful and proper conduct of their operations.
Share your safety incidents with IMCA online. Sign-up to receive Safety Flashes straight to your email.