Changed use of on-board work equipment

Accident reports to the Norwegian Maritime Authority have demonstrated use of work equipment for purposes other than its intended function. Two separate companies had developed a practice where a net cleaner was used to lift fish farming cages. This misuse led to injuries among crew members who were on the equipment to perform repair work.

Correct use of work equipment

The company, master and those working on board must consistently ensure that safety standards are upheld. When operating equipment associated with the vessel’s activities and mission, it is essential to use the equipment strictly for its intended purpose. Suppliers' recommendations, risk assessments and on-board procedures must always be followed. 

Any use of equipment beyond its designated purpose requires a thorough risk assessment to protect the safety of the crew, the environment and material assets. 

Involving crew members in the creation and updating of procedures, checklists and risk assessments is also crucial. All implemented measures and evaluations must be strictly observed. If there are any uncertainties regarding the safety of equipment or operations, work should be halted immediately, and a new risk assessment should be conducted before resuming activities. 

Additionally, the company must provide necessary training and ensure that a sufficient level of familiarisation with on-board equipment and procedures is practised.

Legislation

Regulations of 16 December 2016 No. 1770 on safety management for small cargo ships, passenger ships and fishing vessels, etc. Section 2 stipulates that the company must, to ensure safe operation, define and document the responsibilities and authority of all personnel who may affect health, safety and the environment. 

Section 2-2 of the Regulations of 1 January 2005 No. 8 on the working environment, health and safety of persons working on board ship (HSE Regulations) sets out that hazards on board must be identified. When the hazard has been identified, an assessment of the risk represented by the hazard must be made. These risk assessments must be conducted on a regular basis, for instance whenever new equipment or new technology is introduced. 

The results of the risk assessment must be documented in writing, and if a risk to the safety and health of persons working on board is identified, the necessary measures must be taken to eliminate or reduce the hazards.

Definitions from section 4-2 of the Regulations:

"- Any machinery, apparatus, tools or installations used for work.

- Use of work equipment: Any work operation involving the use of work equipment, including starting and stopping of equipment, operating, transporting, installing, assembling, repairing, modifying, maintaining, servicing and cleaning."

Section 4-3 (3): "When work equipment cannot be used without a hazard to the safety and health of employees working on board ships, necessary measures shall be taken to limit the risk as far as possible."

Section 4-3 (4): "Work equipment shall be used only for the work operations and under the conditions for which it is intended."