Crane Accident -- Fatality
Effective Date: 1/22/1980
 | Minerals Management Service Gulf of Mexico OCS Region |
Notice No. 095
January 22, 1980
OCS Operations Safety Alert
Crane Accident -- Fatality
A crane accident occurred recently on an offshore production platform resulting in the death of the crane operator.
Well workover equipment was being offloaded from a field boat to the platform. A 100 barrel mud tank, containing some water, was picked up by the crane and hoisted to the handrail level. It was swung a short distance when the crane engine loaded up, burning brakes were smelled, and the load was lowered or was slipping. When it was about 40 feet above the water, the crane broke loose from its pedestal and fell into the water with the operator in the cab.
Investigation of the accident showed that the tank weighed 23,000 pounds, which overloaded the crane by 9,100 pounds. The crane was recovered and a detailed inspection showed no evidence of wear or malfunction in any of the clutches or brakes. In addition, lab tests of the hook rollers and brackets indicated no apparent defects in material at the fracture surface and no evidence of fatigue failure. Failure was a result of overload.
To prevent a recurrence of this type of accident, the operator is taking the following action:
1. Reinstruct personnel to closely monitor load weight, crane capacity and operating radius on lifts.
2. Reinstruct personnel not to offload open tanks with fluid in the compartments.
3. Insure compliance with company operating safety and training procedures.
4. Reemphasize use of company established heavy lift procedures.
[signed] D.W. Solanas
Oil and Gas Supervisor
Operations Support
Gulf of Mexico Area