Learning Event

Vessel Contact with Protruding Beam

Hazard Unwanted Event

Worsening sea conditions
led to Contact between vessel
superstructure & platform

Description
A supply vessel completing bunkering at the side of an offshore platform was
moved off its dynamic position reference point by worsening sea conditions.
After manual control of the dynamic position system was initiated, the vessel
superstructure made contact with a protruding beam on the platform.
There was minor damage to the vessel (handrail and search light) and platform.
The incident caused no injuries to personnel.

Risk Event Habits Learnings

Statement ✓ Everyone has Speaking up: A number of individuals thought that the vessel
an obligation was getting closer than normal. If something doesn’t seem right,
A marine vessel to speak up speak up.
positioned close to and stop
a fixed structure as work that is Risk assessment: The risk assessment prepared for the task did
sea conditions unsafe. not consider the risk of vertical interference between the marine
worsen raises the vessel and the platform lower deck structures. Ensure that all
likelihood of ✓ Reassess if scenarios are considered in risk assessment.
unintentional conditions
contact. Procedures: Minimum separation distance was not specified
change.
Equipment in the procedures. Critical control parameters need to be
damage, loss of agreed, specified and followed.
containment,
and/or personal Task Focus: During the task, the focus was not on
injury could occur. navigational duties. Remain vigilant when performing
critical tasks.

Considerations
> Assess whether marine operations occur in proximity to other structures and consider potential for contact in all configurations
and conditions.
> Encourage cross-team safety concerns to be raised.
> Risk assessments must include personnel from both the marine vessel and the other structure.
> Continually assess the state of the environment. The safest option may be to abort the operation.

Could this happen to you?

> Do you operate in a continually changing environment, where the level of risk can change quickly?
> How well do you understand all the marine vessel risks at your facilities? Is it easy to update them?
> Do your risk assessments include representatives from all interfaced teams?

February 2020 Please send your feedback to info@safertogether.com.au safertogether.com.au