The UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has reported that incidents involving motion-compensated gangways in the UK Continental Shelf have resulted in serious injuries. The HSE advises that processes and systems should be in place to ensure the safety of these gangways during deployment and use by personnel moving to and from offshore installations or renewable energy structures. The rapid expansion of the wind energy sector has led to an increase in the use of motion-compensated gangways in providing access services to offshore installations and wind farms.
Recent incidents have highlighted the potential for serious personal injury with the deployment and use of motion-compensated gangways, including risks like entrapment and falls from great heights. The HSE recommends that vessel owners, wind farm operators, and contractors assess risks, ensure adequate warnings for automatic retraction, provide instruction and training for users, and conduct regular inspections and maintenance of motion-compensated gangways to ensure safety.
The assessment of risks associated with motion-compensated gangways should identify and address hazards like entrapment and falls, ensuring that necessary control measures are in place. Operators must ensure that automatic retraction functions provide adequate warnings, users receive proper training, and regular maintenance is conducted. It is crucial for all parties involved, including manufacturers, operators, and vessel owners, to work together to mitigate risks and ensure the safety of personnel using motion-compensated gangways.
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