The Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) has released its Investigative Report on the crane incident that occurred on the Eugene Island (EI) 361A platform on September 26, 2020. The platform is owned and operated by Cox Operating LLC. During the incident, the platform’s crane operator discovered during operations that the boom section closest to the cab was bent.
The BSEE report, explained the work being performed at the time:
A construction crew was on board the platform offloading equipment utilizing the platform crane. Construction equipment including a 6’ x 12’ basket of scaffolding weighing approximately 16,300 lb was being placed directly under the crane causing the boom to be oriented at a vertical angle only inches away for the boom angle kick out. The basket of scaffolding was placed under the crane due to the limited space left on the deck from the amount of equipment offloaded. As per the crane operator, the basket was placed on the deck and the boom safely placed in the boom cradle. When the crane operator returned to operate the crane, he noticed the bends in the boom’s heel section.
During the investigation that occurred after this was discovered, the crane mechanic believed that a load was lowered too fast which resulted in the bend.
The BSEE report determined the probable cause of the incident:
The crane operator failed to lower the load at a safe speed which would have prevented the boom from contacting the boom angle kick out.
BSEE also noted that the crane operator’s actions violated the American Petroleum Institutes Recommended Practice:
As per the API RP 2D document, the crane operator should have been aware of the effect of velocity and weight of the load when lowering to minimize shock load. Following the API document could have prevented the boom from coming in contact with the boom angle kick out.
As per API RP 2D
3.1.5 Operating Practices
b. The Crane Operator should be aware of the operating characteristics of the crane. Mechanical and nonmechanical cranes will require different operating techniques, especially with regards to engine speed, control operation, control arrangement and braking. The Crane Manufacturer should provide operating instructions or be consulted for specific information.
3.2.3 Moving the Load
d. The Crane Operator should be aware of the effect of velocity and weight of the load when lowering to minimize shock load.
Our attorneys have extensive experience in maritime injury and wrongful death litigation in courts across the country and the skills needed to represent the families of loved ones who have lost their lives as a result of the negligence of another party, or been seriously injured. We have handled numerous cases involving injuries that occurred on offshore platforms. The experienced offshore accident attorneys at Spagnoletti Law Firm can help you understand your rights if you or a loved one was a victim of an offshore crane accident. Please contact us online or call 713-804-9306 or to learn more about your legal rights.