Near-miss: Dropped object – turnbuckle pin
- Safety Flash
- Published on 26 October 2012
- Generated on 22 February 2025
- IMCA SF 11/12
- 1 minute read
A member has reported a near miss incident in which a turnbuckle pin weighing approximately 2kg fell more than 12m to deck.
What happened?
The incident occurred on a third party construction support vessel used for pipe laying. The vessel has a gutter to guide the flexible pipe into the vertical tensioner. It is able to slew left and right to allow the flexible pipe to approach from various angles. This gutter was to be held in place using a combination of turnbuckle, chain and shackles (see photographs below.) Whilst installing the turnbuckle securing arrangement, the retaining pin of the turnbuckle was dropped more than 12m to deck. There were no injuries.
Using the DROPS Calculator as a benchmark in the classification of the potential consequences of a dropped object, our member determined that the outcome of dropping the turnbuckle pin could have resulted in a fatality
Location of turnbuckle pin
Where the turnbuckle pin fell from
Securing of shackle pins used at height with wire
Securing of shackle pins used at height with wire
Securing of shackle pins used at height with wire
Our member investigated the incident and as a result implemented a simple secondary securing method to prevent dropped objects.
Members may also find useful information from dropsonline.com
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.