MSF: Cook got chemicals in eye
- Safety Flash
- Published on 6 March 2025
- Generated on 6 March 2025
- IMCA SF 04/25
- 2 minute read
The Marine Safety Forum (MSF) published Safety Alert 24-10 relating to an incident in which a cook got chemicals splashed in the eye.
The incident occurred during the routine cleaning of the galley after dinner service was complete. The vessel cook used Foaming Oven Cleaner which contained Sodium Hydroxide. This was sprayed into the cooker hood, leaving it a while to activate. The cook returned soon after to inspect the area being cleaned when some of the chemical cleaner dropped from the cooker hood, falling between the cook’s prescription glasses and the left eye. The cleaning solution made contact with the cooks left eyeball causing severe irritation and a burning sensation.
First response included a thorough cleanse of the cook’s eye using sterile eye wash and Fluorescein Eye Drops. As a precautionary measure the Coastguard Doctor was called who advised that the cook should be medevac’d and so was airlifted to a local hospital for review and further treatment.
Why did it happen?
- The cook was not wearing appropriate or correct eye protection;
- There was a “lack of situational awareness” – meaning, STOP AND THINK for a moment before peering into any confined space, including an oven with cleaning chemicals sprayed in it.
Members may wish to refer to:
- Are YOU prepared to work safely? Protect your eyes short video
Related Safety Flashes
-
IMCA SF 16/18
27 July 2018
-
-
IMCA SF 08/17
12 April 2017
-
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.