New safety alert highlights dropped-object risk from crane boom protection bumpers
NOPSEMA has issued a new safety alert following a high-potential dropped-object incident involving a crane boom protection bumper mounted on an offshore pedestal crane.
The approximately 2.6 kilogram bumper detached while the crane was being moved from its parked position and fell about 19 metres to the facility’s main deck. It struck intermediate structures during the fall and was deflected from the area directly below its installed position. No one was injured, but the incident had the potential to cause a fatal injury.
The investigation is ongoing and no root cause has been determined. Preliminary observations indicate deterioration within the attachment arrangement and that the installed secondary retention did not prevent the bumper from falling. The investigation is continuing to determine the causes of the incident.
The incident highlights that falling objects can strike intermediate structures and travel beyond their expected vertical drop path, potentially exposing personnel outside designated drop zones.
Facility operators should identify cranes with the same or similar bumper arrangements and verify the integrity of the complete assembly, including primary attachments and secondary retention. Operators should also review maintenance and dropped-object controls to ensure these components are appropriately inspected and maintained.