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Electrical integrity of an ROV

During a vessel ROV mobilisation in port, a subcontractor’s 3-phase hydraulic power unit was connected to the vessel’s power supply. The unit was energised without either inspecting the third party equipment wiring or carrying out earth and continuity checks. This resulted in the contractor’s supervisor receiving a potentially lethal electrical 220v shock.

This incident highlights the importance of checking all third party equipment mobilised to vessels for integrity and compatibility prior to hook up and energising. It also highlights the need to obtain proof of wiring integrity.

The contractor has elected to:

  1. ensure that generic risk assessments address hook up and compatibility of all third party equipment mobilised to its work sites;
  2. review procedures for controlling third party activities and equipment; and
  3. ensure that wiring integrity assurance are requested from sub-contractors both at time of audits and on receipt of equipment at the work site.

Safety Event

Published: 1 January 1998
Download: IMCA SF 01/98

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