Skip to content

Near miss: absence of safety pin in the anchor swivel shackle

What happened?

During planned modernisation of the stern anchor it was discovered that the safety pin in the anchor’s swivel shackle was absent. 

Positive action— Stop work authority – was exercised by the vessel crew.  There was a thorough visual inspection before work started, which allowed recognition that the anchoring equipment was in unsafe condition.

What were the causes?

There was no regular planned maintenance scheduled for this piece of equipment.  The condition and availability of the anchor swivel safety pin was not the part of the planned maintenance program; thus, it had not been checked periodically.

What actions were taken?  What lessons were learnt?

  • A new safety pin was ordered and installed in the shackle within 12 hours;
  • Conduct immediate additional full inspection and check condition of anchor swivel’s shackle and availability of safety pin;
  • Ensure that planned maintenance system (PMS) requires regular planned maintenance of anchoring equipment, including a check that the safety pin is in place and in good condition.

Members may wish to refer to:

Safety Event

Published: 17 September 2019
Download: IMCA SF 22/19

IMCA Safety Flashes
Submit a Report

IMCA Safety Flashes summarise key safety matters and incidents, allowing lessons to be more easily learnt for the benefit of all. The effectiveness of the IMCA Safety Flash system depends on Members sharing information and so avoiding repeat incidents. Please consider adding safetyreports@imca-int.com to your internal distribution list for safety alerts or manually submitting information on incidents you consider may be relevant. All information is anonymised or sanitised, as appropriate.

IMCA’s store terms and conditions (https://www.imca-int.com/legal-notices/terms/) apply to all downloads from IMCA’s website, including this document.

IMCA makes every effort to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the data contained in the documents it publishes, but IMCA shall 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.