AWO Near Miss 23-05 Improper Use of Rigging – Strap Selection

A barge was alongside a ship conducting a bunkering operation when the PIC noticed that a small, undersized strap with a rigged shackle was being used to secure the barge stern line to the ship. The undersized strap was designed to be used to lift a 3-inch MGO hose, thousands of pounds less than the rating of rigging that should be used to moor the barge. The PIC replaced the undersized strap with a larger heavy-duty strap designed for mooring applications that was available on the barge.  

 

The terminal and barge operators discussed the near miss, and the event will be discussed during the operator’s upcoming safety meeting.