SAFETY ALERT #286
Dated: Sunday, 19" JULY 2009
Title: FAINT & FALL FROM SCAFFOLDING
Incident Description:
Onl the IP fainted while erecting scaffolding underneath the cellar deck of thelS wellhead platform.
As a result, the IP fell from the scaffolding frame and was found suspended by the safety hamess and unresponsive.
‘The rescue team members were unclear on the proper rescue procedures and rescue equipment was not on site
Investigation revealed that the IP experienced dizziness while he was driving which prompted him to see his personal
doctor. In spite of a pre-diagnosed medical condition the IP went on his normal offshore rotation. The IP told his co-
‘worker that he felt dizzy when he changed body posture or stood up too fast. This was not reported to the medic or to
the contractor's supervisor.
What Went Wrong:
* The IP and/or his coworker did not report his health condition to his supervisor.
® The IP continued to work although he had an ongoing health issue.
® The IP did not recognize the potential risks of working at heights
* The rescue plan was inadequate.
* The rescue team was unclear of the proper procedure
* Rescue equipment was not available.
Tenets of Operations Violated:
Tenet # 2: Operate in a safe and controlled condition
‘The IP was not fit to safely perform work
Tenet #3: Ensure safely devices are in place and functioning
Fall rescue equipment not in place
Tenet #4: Follow safe work practices and procedures
Work at height procedure was not fully implemented and followed
‘Tenet #8: Address abnormal conditions
The IP's thess was not reported to the supervisor.
‘Tenet #9: Follow written procedures for high risk or unusual situations
Lessons Learned:
‘Any illnesses or injuries must be reported to the supervisor and/or
medic.
‘+ Watch your co-workers, do not let them perform tasks if they seem not
physically for work, and report the situation to the supervisor
‘* Fall harness, fall rescue plan and equipment are required for working at
height, and personnel involved must be trained.
‘* Conduct rescue from height exercise to ensure rescue team members
know what to do,