A UK marine aggregate dredger was underway in open sea while fully loaded.

A crew member was traversing from forward to aft along the port main deck when they were suddenly knocked off their feet by a large wave.

The crew member managed to grab hold of the middle bar of the ship side hand rail until the wave had passed. They regained their footing and left the main deck via the poop. The individual was uninjured by the fall/impact of wave, but was potentially suffering from shock afterwards – they showered/changed clothes to prevent hypothermia and were monitored by other crew.

To help prevent re-occurrence of this type of incident some initial learning points can be reiterated.

Crew members need to ensure that they:

• Consult the ‘Preparing for Heavy Weather’ Standard Operating Procedure (SOP);

• Conduct all pre-checks prior to sailing into heavy weather;

• Communicate with the Bridge to establish if it is safe to proceed on deck;

• Use interior transit routes during heavy weather;

• Conduct a ‘Point of Work’ safety assessment.