Fork lift truck operation
- Safety Flash
- Published on 2 April 2001
- Generated on 12 June 2026
- IMCA SF 06/01
- 1 minute read
A recent incident on one of our Members’ vessels occurred when working on an internal lifting tool, using a fork lift to lift and install grippers.
What happened?
The gripper fell off of the forks and hit a man on his hand, causing serious crush wounds.
The main reason for the incident was that the forks were being used as a lifting tool. The grippers were attached using a rope. The rope was not secured against slipping.
Proper slings/shackles should have been used, along with a device to prevent slipping. On a similar vessel, a shoe and tie-back device is used.
The lessons learned from the incident were:
- Use fork lift trucks for what they are designed for.
- Use proper slings, shackles and securing devices.
- Supervisors should check on all ongoing work.
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.