Real Life Incident: Fatal Fall Overboard Between The Berth And The Vessel
In the early morning, a general cargo vessel came starboard side to the berth to load steel and project cargo. To prepare the holds for loading, the crew needed to remove the stored pontoons and place supports so that the tween decks could be positioned inside the hold later on.
The supervising officer stood on a hatch coaming ladder to guide the operation using hand signals and portable VHF.
As the pontoon was positioned above the hatch coaming, the supervising officer instructed the crane operator to swing the pontoon to the left and then slowly lower it. A short time later the seaman near the gangway noticed someone had fallen overboard amidships, between the quay and the vessel. The seaman raised the alarm on his VHF, grabbed a lifebuoy and ran to the position where he presumed the victim – the supervising officer – had fallen into the water.
The victim remained afloat even though he was not wearing a lifejacket. The seaman who had rushed to help was unable to bring him to safety from the quay with a lifebuoy. The victim appeared to lose consciousness shortly afterwards. Using a rope ladder, a crew member climbed down and, with half of his body submerged in the water, attempted to get the victim into the lifebuoy. However, he soon had to cease his rescue attempt due to the cold.
A second attempt succeeded in placing the victim on to a stretcher and he was lifted out of the water by the shore crane. Unfortunately, he was later pronounced dead and the autopsy found that he had died as a result of internal bleeding.
Reference: nautinst.org
Disclaimer :
The information on this website is for general purposes only. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, we make no warranties of any kind regarding completeness, reliability, or suitability. Any reliance you place on such information is at your own risk. We are not liable for any loss or damage arising from the use of this website.
Related Posts
Disclaimer :
The information on this website is for general purposes only. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, we make no warranties of any kind regarding completeness, reliability, or suitability. Any reliance you place on such information is at your own risk. We are not liable for any loss or damage arising from the use of this website.
Related Articles
Latest News
⚓️ Enhance Your Knowledge. Prevent Accidents. Stay Safe at Sea.
1. eBooks for Engine Department
Master machinery operations, troubleshooting, and safety procedures with expertly written guides tailored for marine engineers. Prevent costly breakdowns and onboard accidents through practical knowledge.
👉 Explore Engine Department eBooks
2. eBooks for Deck Department
Sharpen your seamanship, navigation, and cargo-handling skills with real-world case studies and practical insights designed for deck officers and cadets.
👉Discover Deck Department eBooks
3. eBooks on Electrical Fundamentals & Issues
Understand marine electrical systems, identify potential faults, and prevent onboard electrical failures with step-by-step explanations from industry experts.
4. Pocket Guides for Quick Reference
Compact, handy, and loaded with essential checklists—perfect for on-the-go reference during operations and emergencies at sea.
5. Combo Packs to Save Big
Access multiple expert eBooks at discounted prices. Ideal for professionals seeking complete safety and operational knowledge across various ship departments.
6. Digital Maritime Courses – Learn at Your Own Pace
Upgrade your competence with Marine Insight Academy’s online courses. Learn from industry professionals anytime, anywhere, and become a safer, smarter seafarer.
Subscribe To Our Daily Newsletter
By subscribing, you agree to our Privacy Policy and may receive occasional deal communications; you can unsubscribe anytime.
BE THE FIRST TO COMMENT