BSEE issues safety alert after man falls off Gulf of Mexico platform

The U.S. Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement has issued a safety alert and guidance for offshore operators after a contractor fell off a Gulf of Mexico platform as the boarding pad gave way.

As per the BSEE, the incident happened on February 14, 2019, when a production contractor was conducting a pollution inspection on a Gulf of Mexico platform.

“The individual successfully transferred from the boat to the platform via rope transfer, landing on the grating of the boat landing. Upon completion of the transfer,
the grating gave way and the individual fell into the water,” the BSEE said.

“The boat deckhands immediately retrieved the individual from the water. The individual sustained cuts to his legs and other undefined injuries to his knee and back. The individual
was transported to shore for additional medical treatment,” the safety body added.

The offshore safety body has issued guidance for the operators with the aim to prevent similar incidents.

The operators are advised to Develop and ensure implementation of a Safe Boarding Plan for any facility that may present hazards to normal boarding processes. Prior to boarding, it is advised to use flyovers or close approach by boat to establish the general condition of the structure and determine if the structure has obvious damage.

Furthermore, the operators are advised to conduct a general visual inspection of the above-water structure to identify additional safety concerns and possible structural damage to determine if a below water inspection is required.

Also, BSEE advises for the operator to review its safety alert with all personnel who transfer to facilities via swing rope or personnel baskets to make sure employees are aware of all potential hazards associated with personnel transfers.

The BSEE did not disclose the name of the platform aboard which the incident had taken place.

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