Wire rope sling failed during lifting operations

What happened?

The Marine Safety Forum (MSF) has published Safety Alert 18-18 regarding the failure of equipment on an anchor handling vessel (AHV) during chain handling operations.

The crew were preparing a chain (76mm in length) for a decanting operation onto a semi-submersible mobile offshore drilling unit (MODU). Whilst recovering the chain, the starboard-aft tugger wire was connected to the chain, using a 6Te wire rope sling. The chain was recovered and was approximately a quarter of the way up the deck when the wire rope sling failed, causing the 76mm chain to fall onto the deck and into the AHV locker. No one was injured.

What actions were taken?

• The crew assessed the damage to the wire rope sling. After inspection, the sling was discarded;
• All the equipment used during the operation was inspected and no damage was found;
• A new 10Te sling was to be used, the chain reconnected and successfully recovered.

What lessons were learned?

• Equipment inspections should be made before any operations are undertaken;
• Ensure all lifting equipment is suitable and fit for purpose.
• A clear deck policy was in place when this incident took place – it is important to make sure that you have a clear deck policy in place when undertaking operations. This will, as in this incident, prevent any injuries from occurring

Members may wish to refer to the following incidents

• Damaged wire rope slings
• Failure of steel wire sling