A fatal accident involving a crew member occurred on board anchor handling supply vessel (AHTS) Skandi Pacific , on Tuesday, some 166 km NW of Karartha, West Australian Coast.
“DOF Management can confirm there has been a fatal incident on board the Skandi Pacific today, July 14th, 2015 at 5.30am AWST, 175 Kilometers off the West Australian Coast. Operations were suspended immediately, the emergency response team was mobilised and the vessel is now on its way back to port. The authorities have been notified, ” the vessel’s owner said.
As informed by the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB), during the early hours of 14 July, Skandi Pacific stopped working cargo with the drilling platform Atwood Osprey due to heavy weather.
“While attempting to shelter from the weather and secure cargo a wave came over the back deck of the vessel and shifted cargo. A crew member was attempting to secure cargo when he was crushed between a moving mini-container and a cargo skip. He was removed to the nearby drill platform to receive medical assistance but died of his injuries, ” ATSB informed.
An investigation into the case has been launched.
“We are doing everything we can to support the families and other crew members. The Skandi Pacific will be met by DOF representatives and a team of professional counselors will be on-hand to offer support and care for the crew on-board,” DOF added.
“My and all the MUA’s thoughts are with the Kelly family in particular along with his workmates on this unfortunate day, ” MUA National Secretary Paddy Crumlin said.
“The offshore industry is an inherently high safety risk environment, the highest in the country and the world, due to the isolated and unstable nature of seagoing work and the 24/7 requirements placed on seafarers.”