Electrical power tools onboard fishing vessels

The purpose of this Safety Alert is to highlight the dangers of using 240-volt electric power tools on vessels where exposure to sea water is a risk factor.

Background

A deckhand working on a fishing vessel operating off the Territory Coast in the Gulf of Carpentaria was killed when a large wave flooded the deck of the vessel in November 2013.

At the time of the incident, the deceased was operating a 240-volt portable angle grinder connected via an extension lead to a power socket within the vessel.

Preliminary findings suggest a probable cause of death was electrocution after water from the wave made contact with the angle grinder and its plug.

Contributing factors

• The angle grinder was not protected by a residual current device
• The deceased was barefoot when the incident occurred.

Action required

• Conduct a risk assessment to identify:
  • if any equipment to be used is designed to be used in the intended work environment
  • possible safety hazards associated with the equipment and significance of the risk
  • what measures can be implemented to control or eliminate the risks.
• Portable electrical equipment must either be specifically designed for use in a marine environment or used in locations where they are not exposed to contact with water
• Portable mains powered electrical tools and extension leads must be kept away from water
• A residual current device must protect all circuits used to supply portable electrical equipment
• Appropriate personnel protective equipment (PPE) must be worn at all times.

Further information

Codes of Practice

• Managing the work environment and facilities
• How to manage work health and safety risks