There was a deadly accident on the bulk carrier Yuka D on May 22, 2024. According to reports, a crew member was killed when he fell from the vessel’s crane, landing on the vessel’s deck 30 feet below. The vessel was in port in India at the time. The worker sustained head injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. The victim has been identified as Quirao Earl Wilhelm Azarcon. Additional details have not yet been released.
Falls from cranes on vessels are among the most perilous hazards faced by maritime workers. The risk of such incidents is heightened by the dynamic and often unstable nature of the maritime environment. Cranes are essential for loading and unloading cargo, conducting repairs, and various other operations on ships. However, the heights at which crane operators and riggers work, combined with the movement of the vessel due to waves and weather conditions, significantly increase the risk of falls. A fall from a crane can result in severe injuries or fatalities, highlighting the need for stringent safety measures and protocols.
One of the primary factors contributing to the risk of falls from cranes is inadequate safety equipment and training. Workers who are not provided with or fail to use proper personal protective equipment (PPE), such as harnesses and fall arrest systems, are at a much higher risk of falling. Additionally, insufficient training on the correct use of safety equipment and crane operation can lead to dangerous mistakes. Ensuring that all personnel working with or around cranes are adequately trained and equipped is crucial for preventing accidents. Regular safety drills and refresher courses can help reinforce the importance of adhering to safety protocols.
Environmental conditions also play a significant role in the risk of falls from cranes on vessels. Rough seas, high winds, and poor visibility can all impact the stability of the crane and the safety of the workers. These conditions can cause sudden movements of the vessel, leading to slips and falls. To mitigate these risks, operations involving cranes should be carefully planned and executed with consideration of the weather and sea conditions. When adverse conditions are present, it may be necessary to delay crane operations or take additional precautions, such as using stabilizing equipment or increasing the number of safety checks.
Maintenance and regular inspections of cranes and associated safety equipment are essential to prevent falls. Mechanical failures, such as malfunctioning brakes, worn-out cables, or structural weaknesses, can lead to catastrophic accidents. Implementing a rigorous maintenance schedule and conducting thorough inspections before each use can identify potential issues and address them before they result in a fall. Additionally, creating a culture of safety on board, where workers are encouraged to report any safety concerns or equipment malfunctions without fear of reprisal, can further enhance overall safety and reduce the risk of falls from cranes on vessels.
There have been a number of recent incidents involving vessels. Two people were injured when their boat ran aground on Lake Sam Rayburn in Texas on May 17, 2024. A small boat struck a sandbar in Corpus Christi, Texas on May 20, 2024. There was a crane fire at the Gloucester City Terminal on the Delaware River on May 21, 2024. An 11-year-old boy was struck by a boat’s propeller in Rowan County, North Carolina on May 19, 2024. There was a boat fire in Wayne County, New York on May 23, 2024.
Our experienced lawyers handle maritime personal injury and wrongful death litigation of all kinds and the skills needed to represent the families of loved ones who have lost their lives or those who have been seriously injured as a result of a maritime accident. The lawyers of Spagnoletti Law Firm have handled maritime lawsuits throughout the country.
The experienced and aggressive vessel accident attorneys at Spagnoletti Law Firm can help you understand your rights if you or a loved one was a victim of an accident on a ship. There are strict and short time limits on making claims related to maritime injuries, so please contact us online or call 713-804-9306 or to learn more about your rights.