Crewman got cement dust in his eyes
- Safety Flash
- Published on 21 September 2017
- Generated on 13 November 2025
- IMCA SF 23/17
- 2 minute read
During the discharging of a cement tank on board a vessel, a crewman was standing in the path of a blow back of cement dust, and the dust got in his eyes.
What happened?
Crew were using a portable hose to investigate why the discharge line inside the tank was blocked. The hose was being held by deckhands who were assisting in the operation.
There was a back pressure in the hose which resulted in the cement in the line and in the tank to blow back at considerable pressure. A deck hand who was standing in the vicinity was caught unawares and got cement dust in his eyes.
After washing out his eyes, the deck hand was unharmed.
What went wrong? What were the causes?
- The crew were not following the correct procedures for this work.
- The crew were not wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
What lessons were learnt? What actions were taken?
Proper precautions should be taken with dry bulk cargo and dusts of all kinds.
Members may wish to consult “Carrying solid bulk cargoes safely” guidance for crews based on the International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes Code. This can be found on the Nautical Institute website.
Related safety flashes
-
IMCA SF 09/03
1 August 2003
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.