Skip to content

Subsea transponder wire parted

What happened

A tripod positioning transponder wire parted from the tripod framework whilst the vessel was repositioning and needed to re-plumb the transponder. No assets were close by at time of incident.  Whilst coming up on the winch it was noticed that there was no weight on the wire; on recovery to the surface it was discovered that the 4mm diameter wire had parted approximately 1m from the tripod lifting eye. The lost tripod was subsequently recovered to deck by divers and the crane.

What went wrong?

The equipment failure was caused by excessive wear and tear on equipment; the wire was corroded and was not replaced frequently enough

Action

  • Replaced the damaged wire and conducted a performance test prior to use; 
  • Regular visual inspection prior to launch and during recovery now conducted;
  • Replacement of the spool wire every 6 months added to the vessel PMS.

Members may wish to refer to

Safety Event

Published: 21 April 2022
Download: IMCA SF 10/22

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.