Question 1

During RoRo vehicle deck operations on board Laureline, AB Alain Canete positioned himself behind a reversing trailer after it paused, believing the manoeuvre was complete. According to the MAIB investigation, what was the fundamental error in this assumption?

Accepted Answer

The danger zone around a trailer remains active while the tug is still connected, regardless of whether the trailer has momentarily stopped MAIB found that the danger zone around a trailer is dynamic — it exists for as long as the tug is connected, including during pauses. AB1 assumed the pause meant the manoeuvre was complete, but the tug driver resumed to readjust the trailer's alignment. Without a positive confirmation that the manoeuvre was finished, the pause alone gave no reliable assurance of safety.

Question 2

You're asked to test a deck crane grab after electrical repairs nearby. As the grab is hoisted, what should have happened first?

Accepted Answer

The area within the grab's swing radius should be cleared of personnel before the lift On the bulk carrier Fairfield Eagle, a crew member working nearby was struck and fatally injured when a grab being test-lifted after repairs swung unexpectedly. The investigation found the area should have been cleared and barriered before the test lift began.

Question 3

A toolbox talk held before a lifting operation should explicitly cover which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Who must remain clear of the exclusion zone while the lift takes place A toolbox talk exists to make sure everyone present understands the danger zones, the abort signal, and — critically — who must not be in the area while the lift happens. The RMIMA investigation into the Fairfield Eagle fatality found the toolbox talk had not made this clear.