Serious injury on board United Treasure, off Port Kembla, New South Wales, on 7 July 2009

Abstract

On 7 July 2009, while United Treasure was anchored off Port Kembla, New South Wales, two seamen fell about 8 m in a cargo hold after the scaffolding on which they were working toppled over. Both men suffered compound fractures and were evacuated from the ship by helicopter and taken to hospital.

The ATSB investigation found that the scaffolding had not been properly assembled or secured to the ship's structure. The investigation also found that an appropriate risk assessment for the work had not been carried out and the relevant ship's procedures were not followed.

To avoid a further occurrence of this type on board their managed ships, United Treasure's managers have taken safety action by revising the relevant shipboard procedures. In addition, the ATSB has issued one safety advisory notice.