Safety Awareness at Work and at Play
The Australian Transport Safety Board (ATSB) has recently reported on the circumstances of a fatal incident on board a bulk carrier at anchor off an Australian port.
The ship’s bosun decided to fish from the lower platform of the accommodation ladder during his lunch-break. He lost his balance and fell into the sea. Despite a 3 day search, his body was not found.
The bosun was not wearing a life jacket or fall prevention device, contrary to the requirements of the ship’s safety management system. The ATSB concluded that the safety culture on board was not well developed, which led to the crew adopting different attitudes to safety during work and recreation periods.
We all know the importance of being aware of hazards and taking measures to control those hazards at work. Always remember that unlike seafarers the hazards on board do not go ‘off-duty’. The same level of safety awareness needs to be used during recreational activities as during work.
The full report may be read here.
Source: ATSB