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Finger injury during shackle handling

What happened

During a pennant wire spooling operation, the injured person was trying to remove a 35 tonne SWL shackle from the pennant eye. While trying to jiggle the shackle, it landed on his left middle finger causing a crush injury 1.5cm long.

What went wrong

  • The task supervisor (the Bosun) saw the crew person holding the shackle but did not warn him or intervene;
  • There was no last minute risk assessment carried out;
  • The shackle as initially used was the wrong size.

Lessons learned

  • The task supervisor is in charge to control the operation, ensure it is safely conducted, and that the proper tools are used. It is the responsibility of the task supervisor to intervene;
  • Use appropriate tools such as crow bars and hammers to release heavy shackles, rather than your hands. Do not expose your hands by handling heavy items.

Members may wish to refer to:

Safety Event

Published: 13 July 2023
Download: IMCA SF 17/23

Relevant life-saving rules:
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