Manhole opened and not correctly closed
- Safety Flash
- Published on 6 July 2020
- Generated on 25 May 2026
- IMCA SF 20/20
- 1 minute read
What happened?
During a safety round on deck prior to cargo operations it was noticed that a manhole had been opened in order to pump out ballast water to replace a faulty valve.
What went wrong?
The manhole cover or hatch nuts had been completely removed and the cover was only placed back on top and was left completely unsecured.
There was no barrier tape nor any warnings placed to indicate that the cover was open and unsecured.
Bypassing safety controls:
- Crew did not follow company procedures.
- No warnings were posted.
- It did not occur to the crew doing this work to consider the potential risks of persons falling inside or slipping from standing on the manhole cover while so placed and not secure.
Related Safety Flashes
-
IMCA SF 12/20
31 March 2020
-
-
IMCA SF 02/20
10 January 2020
-
-
IMCA SF 27/16
12 October 2016
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.