Improper use of lifting equipment
- Safety Flash
- Published on 1 April 2002
- Generated on 1 February 2026
- IMCA SF 03/02
- 1 minute read
A Member has reported the following incident.
What happened?
A driller was positioning a rig sub-structure base area, lifting up the front extension. The sub-structure was lower than the extension and the driller used a forklift to lift it up and push a connecting pin. He used the forklift to push the pin inside by one fork. While pushing, he started hammering the pin and the fork slid to one side and hit his right foot.
The driller suffered a fracture of his right foot.
What were the causes?
The investigation identified:
- Improper use of equipment conventionally used only for lifting operations.
Action
The contractor involved has reiterated that forklifts shall only be used for lifting operations and the handling of goods.
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.