Floating plant and barges are used for marine construction including piling, dredging, and material delivery. Working on floating platforms introduces hazards not found on land including vessel instability, changing tidal conditions, and the constant risk of falling overboard. This talk covers the specific controls needed to work safely on floating plant and barges during construction operations.
Key Hazards
Falling overboard from floating plant into deep or tidal water
Vessel instability or listing caused by uneven loading or crane operations
Crushing between the barge and a fixed structure during tidal movement
Mooring line failure causing uncontrolled vessel movement on the water
Control Measures
Wear an auto-inflating personal flotation device at all times on floating plant and barges.
Check the vessel stability assessment before loading any plant, materials, or equipment on deck.
Maintain clear exclusion zones between the barge and fixed structures to prevent crush injuries.
Inspect mooring lines and securing arrangements before each shift and after tidal changes.
Ensure safe access between the shore and the vessel using approved gangways with handrails.
Brief all personnel on the man overboard procedure and the location of lifebuoys and rescue craft.
Monitor weather, wind, and tidal conditions throughout the shift and cease work when limits are exceeded.
Ensure crane operations on floating plant account for vessel movement and list in the lift plan.
Keep deck surfaces clear, clean, and free from trip hazards at all times during operations.
Emergency / Rescue
If a person falls overboard, shout 'man overboard' and throw the nearest lifebuoy immediately. Do not jump in. Raise the alarm, call 999, and deploy the rescue boat. Keep visual contact with the casualty at all times.
Remember
Wear an auto-inflating personal flotation device at all times on any floating plant or barge
Check the vessel stability assessment before loading any plant or materials onto the deck
Inspect mooring lines before each shift and after every tidal change during the work period
Know the man overboard procedure and the location of all lifebuoys and rescue craft on board
Cease work when weather, wind, or tidal conditions exceed the agreed safe working limits
Applicable Legislation: CDM Regulations 2015 · Docks Regulations 1988 · Merchant Shipping Regulations · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974