Dropped load (bottled water) during lifting operations

  • Safety Flash
  • Published on 16 July 2019
  • Generated on 29 April 2025
  • IMCA SF 17/19
  • 1 minute read

During a routine lifting operation, a pallet laden with about 1 tonne of bottled water, slid off the pallet lifting forks and fell around 8 metres to the quayside area below.

What happened?

The banksman had to run clear of the area to avoid being struck by falling items.

during a routine lifting operation, a pallet laden with about 1 tonne of bottled water, slid off the pallet lifting forks and fell around 8 metres to the quayside area below

How did it happen?

Inattention, complacency and failure to follow company lifting procedures with regards to lift team size.

Actions

  • Follow company procedures and standards with regards to lifting operations.

  • STOP THE JOB if worksite controls are not being followed or if work is not safe.

  • Ensure sufficient barrier management is in place for lifting operations.

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