A large container vessel was arriving at the port in heavy weather; approx 40-knot winds and almost four-metre swells. The vessel manoeuvred at about 10 knots to make a lee in preparation to embark a pilot via the side shell access door, 3.9 metres above the water. Two crew members were in the process of opening the pilot access door when the vessel was hit by heavy seas that forced the door open and flooded the embarkation space. As the seawater swirled and splashed in the space it swept one crewman out of the door and into the sea. Another crew member was injured. Image Credits: nautinst.org Extensive search and rescue operations failed to locate the lost crew member, who was not wearing a personal flotation device. Lessons learned If the side shell door is close to the height of the seas, there can be significant risks to persons in the boarding area. This event brings to the fore the importance of crew members wearing personal protection devices and safety lines when working over the side of a vessel, when exposed to the elements or when there is no barrier to prevent accidental water entry. Identify potential hazards and conduct a risk assessment prior to opening the side shell port hatches. Reference: nautinst.org Disclaimer : The information on this website is for general purposes only. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, we make no warranties of any kind regarding completeness, reliability, or suitability. Any reliance you place on such information is at your own risk. We are not liable for any loss or damage arising from the use of this website. Related Posts Real Life Incident: Collision Of Container Ship and General Cargo Ship Leads To Sinking And Fatalities Real Life Incident: Collision and Sinking of Small Craft in Shipping Lane Real Life Incident: Crew Saved but Ship Lost Real Life Incident: Pin Holes Create Pathway To Fatal Reckoning Related Posts Real Life Incident: Collision Of Container Ship and General Cargo Ship Leads To Sinking And Fatalities Real Life Incident: Collision and Sinking of Small Craft in Shipping Lane Real Life Incident: Crew Saved but Ship Lost Disclaimer : The information on this website is for general purposes only. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, we make no warranties of any kind regarding completeness, reliability, or suitability. Any reliance you place on such information is at your own risk. We are not liable for any loss or damage arising from the use of this website. Related Articles Real Life Incident: Collision Of Container Ship and General Cargo Ship Leads To Sinking And Fatalities Real Life Incident: Collision and Sinking of Small Craft in Shipping Lane Real Life Incident: Crew Saved but Ship Lost Latest News Real Life Incident: Pin Holes Create Pathway To Fatal Reckoning Real Life Incident: Engine Cadet Loses Life Due To Fumigation Real Life Incident: Poisoning From Fumigant Takes Lives Of Chief And Third Officers Real Life Incident: Engine Room Crew Member Dies Because Of Watertight Door Real Life Incident: Engine Crew Member’s Finger Crushed Real Life Incident: Major Injury To Ship Electrician From Grinder