201142 Rescue boat lifting sling failure causes injuries

This is a large yacht where the rescue boat is stowed inside the hull via a shell door. After a routine launch, the rescue boat was lifted by its dedicated three-legged sling and was being slewed into the tender bay. Suddenly, the snap shackle (Figures) connecting the port aft leg of the sling failed. The rescue boat tilted substantially, being held only by the forward and starboard legs of the sling. Two deckhands who had been seated in the rescue boat for hoisting fell into the water, suffering minor injuries. Both were wearing inflatable lifejackets, remained conscious throughout, and were recovered by other crew members.

Observations
1. The hinged hook of the snap shackle had sheared off at the hinge pin;
2. The yacht and its fittings were about two years old;
3. The lifting gear and sling were duly certified for the load and had not been subjected to any severe loads since new;
4. Regular inspections of the sling were carried out as part of routine maintenance.

 

 

Corrective/preventative actions
1. All snap shackles replaced with conventional shackles of appropriate SWL;
2. Inspection routines have since been amended and risk assessments reviewed.