What is a personnel transfer basket?
Personnel transfer basket, also named marine offshore man basket, is a carrier device specially designed to contain and move crew safely and quickly from one point to another by lifting using a crane system fitted on either a floating or fixed platform.
It’s been a safe choice and most preferred as the transfer baskets are manufactured as per international maritime safety standards and regulations such as EN. It is also easily reversible.
A personnel transfer basket is characterized by two platform rings and frame. These are a bottom padded ring, a top ring, and frame made from netted ropes, metal or both. The top ring has a lifting ring attached above it to link the basket carrier to a crane hook system.
Application of personnel transfer basket
Personnel transfer basket is preferred as the main and also secondary mode of transferring crew depending on the situation at hand because it is safe, fast and economical for moving a large volume of people.
These transfers could be between two vessels say ship to ship or ship to boat, between a tanker and a ship, between a vessel and a quayside, between installations and so on.
Transfer by this carrier is particularly common when rotating crew, getting them to or from the work site at the beginning or end of their shifts or changing work stations between installations.
Personnel transfer basket is also a means of transferring casualties or injured crew away from a site nearer to where a helicopter can pick them, or alternatively, bringing in medical personnel onboard.
When there is a major emergency situation such as the threat of fire or explosion, this means of transfer is very helpful to evacuate crew members from danger. Most especially because it performs a dry rescue which is always preferable at sea.
Also, during bad weather or rough sea conditions when walking or other alternatives are not feasible to access a working area, personnel transfer basket is a secondary alternative to get there.
Types of personnel transfer basket
Ever since the beginning of its use, the device has evolved for decades now. From years of risk assessment, it has kept improving to enhance safety in various sea conditions and situations.
While there are many carrier types, only those designed specifically for the purpose of personnel transfer qualify as personnel transfer baskets. These could be collapsible or rigid, standing or sitting rides. These are the three common types.
- Collapsible baskets eg Billy Pugh Basket system
It is the oldest standard transfer basket familiar to many mariners.Constructed to be collapsible to a smaller compact easy to store ring. It is built of a rigid top ring and a solid bottom ring usually of foam material. Woven rope netting links the two rings. Fitted above it is a lifting ring.
This traditional offshore man basket comes in different specifications of nine to twelve passengers. Contrary to popular belief/misconception, the riders do not get inside the device.
Instead, they stand outside, feet firmly on the lower ring while facing towards the net and intertwine their arms through the rope netting. It offers the least protection from the risk of falling and high impacts.
- Rigid standing baskets eg Safe Transfer Basket(ESVAGT)
As the name suggests, it is among the most successful personnel transfer baskets for the safe transfer of crew. It has the top and bottom ring with a rigid metal frame linking the two rings and netting too. The lower ring is also much wider extending its edges beyond the frame.
This is a safety feature to protect the crew from harsh side impact in case of collision. The rings are fitted with floats for buoyancy as well as to cushion riders vertically for a smooth landing.
There are two standard types, one for four passengers and another for eight passengers. Here, personnel climb inside and stand facing outwards. It offers medium protection from the risk of falling and high impact.
- Rigid seated basket eg Capsule Basket
Unlike the first two which have porous walls, this type encompasses a capsule enclosure. It also has seats inside for crew to sit on and buckle up. Some are even spacious enough to accommodate stretchers. It has been built for a lowered center of gravity for maintaining balance.
The structure has a metallic frame with a buoyant anti-shock capsule enclosure. It is used offshore and self rights in water. Capsules offer the highest protection from most risks. It carries four to ten passengers. Frog and Torro are good examples of this type. It is important to take note of these differences in each type before buying a personnel transfer basket.
Other equipment associated with personnel transfer basket
1.Crane.
Cranes are used to lift and lower the personnel transfer basket. The cranes need to be certified for human lifting by international standards.
2.Vessel
Depending on the type of personnel transfer, a vessel -ship, boat or other fixed platforms, with a secure and stable landing area such as deck must be available. It should have adequate space free from structures likely to pose a collision hazard.
3.Tagline.
The tagline is an attached rope/line to the personnel transfer basket. Its main purpose is to control swinging and manipulate orientation after pick up and before landing.
4.Rigging.
This is the wire lifting assembly which is very crucial as its failure could have serious consequences. It should have a positive lockable latch and direct connection to the personnel transfer basket linking ring. Enough snag allowance is provided to avoid drag when vessel sways.
5.Radio.
While radio communication is vital when using a personnel transfer basket especially between crane operator, deck crew, riders, and lift supervisor, it may or may not be absolutely necessary. Visual, voice and hand signal work just as well too. The chosen mode must be communicated upfront to everyone.
6.Personal Protective Equipment.
PPE must be donned by deck crew and personnel for enhanced safety. These include life vests, helmet, gloves, shock absorbing footwear or survival suit as deemed fit or as per organizations regulations.
Safety and Transfer Procedures
The use of personnel transfer basket is useful in routine, evacuation and emergency marine operations. Nonetheless, it carries its own risks when proper procedure is not followed or instructions for use not adhered to the latter.
In order of prevalence from highest to lowest, here are the most common risks when using one.
1. Riders falling off from the personnel transfer basket due to collision or sudden jerking and swaying movements and being injured.
2.A personnel transfer basket colliding laterally with the vessel itself, cargo or other structures within the vicinity.
3.The vertical impact from harsh landing such as a sudden drop.
4.Personnel tripping over from getting entangled with the tagline when boarding or alighting the carrier.
5.Immersion in water from miscalculated landing or failed system. This is the least common risk.
These risks can occur due to any of the following reasons
1.Bad weather such as fog, snow, rain which decreases visibility and hampers communication.
2.Breakage or mechanical failure of part of or the whole equipment.
3.Strong winds against the personnel transfer basket making carrier manipulation difficult.
4.The sea state for example height of tides and current directions and strength affecting movement and stationing of vessels.
5.Very low temperatures causing numbness, frost bites and hypothermia hampering the riders ability to maintain a tight grip.
6.Incompetent or inexperienced crane operators and related crew members.
To mitigate these risks and successfully operate a personnel transfer basket, here’s an outline of recommended operating procedures and safety guidelines to be followed.
- Crane operators and related crew responsibilities
Only qualified personnel need to operate the personnel transfer basket with a crane. They will be experienced and well trained for the job.
They will brief riders of the transfer usually by radio/voice, outlining the entry and exit procedures clearly.They must explain the positioning requirements of the personnel transfer basket whether sitting, standing, facing inwards or outwards.
They will inform riders of the recommended personal protective equipment that needs to be donned for safety.
Crane operator has the right to refuse to proceed with personnel basket transfer should riders not comply with these rules.
They will take off the basket only when riders are on board, compliant and fully secured
- Preparing the personnel transfer basket
Ensure that the personnel transfer basket in use is the right type for the job. Lifting crane must also be certified for human lift.
A thorough visual examination and test transfer of the personnel transfer basket is mandatory prior to use. Examine the ring platform, nets, hooks, shackles, latch, and entire rigging. A backup lifting line should be provided for.
Fix two tag lines at the base of the personnel transfer basket at two opposite points. Avoid snagging risk which normally occurs with the use of knots, loops that may get caught up in fixtures.
Take note of the maximum weight or passengers allowed or as indicated to ensure compliance and avoid overloading. Weigh and grouping riders if possible to achieve equal distribution.
Assign and legibly mark the landing area. Mark and bar the boundary if possible to keep it clear from access and spacious.
Maintain a clear line of sight at all times is paramount, paying particular attention during unfavorable weather such as foggy days or dim lighting(night transfer).
Raise the personnel transfer basket just high enough to get off the deck and clear of the rail or other obstruction with a minimal swing when swiveling.
Swing over water to the position directly above the landing area and lower gently. Do not make unexpected acceleration, deceleration, change in direction or sudden stops.
A banksman will be assigned for communication purposes and to avoid multiple mixed signals from people to the crane operator. They will be recognizable and in highly visible clothing.
During strong winds, make use of leeward side shield by operating downwind the installation.
Should safety be compromised for any reason, cease the transfer at once.
Never lift or lower the carrier directly above a vessel when personnel transfer basket is loaded.
Embark and disembark only when the personnel transfer basket is firmly on the ground and instructed to do so. Never jump on or off one that is in motion.
Place one foot on top of the base ring and one on deck before the lift begins and do the same at the time of landing to maintain balance.
Harness, tethers and safety belts must be used (secured) if present. Personal protection devices will also be donned as per the prevailing conditions.
Hold on to the basket tightly with both hands; in case one loses its grip, the other will secure you.
Never walk under a loaded suspended personnel transfer basket.Unwell/incapacitated riders should not use standing personnel transfer basket. They must use the capsule and sit.
Another staff must be assigned to assist them.Boarding will, however, be voluntary and not forceful. Personnel will not be coerced into riding a transfer basket against their will.
Care and maintenance of personnel transfer basket
Manufacturer’s written recommendations for inspection, care, and maintenance of personnel transfer basket should be adhered to for the safety and longevity of the device.
Planned routine inspection must be carried out at stipulated intervals and by qualified inspectors. Visual inspection by the crew will, however, be conducted prior to any transfers.
Manufacturers inspection checklist is normally provided for use. Look out for the following things;
- Wear, corrosion, cracks on the framework, walls, and rigging.
- Fraying, thinning and deterioration of taglines, net ropes.
- Degradation of the bottom cushion such that it rests in an angular presentation instead of the normal flat horizontal base.
- Lock functionality of hook and latch.
- Floatation components by testing buoyancy ability.
- Spilled grease and oil splashes. These must be wiped off as soon as spotted.
- Before storage in a dry place free from direct sunlight, be sure the components are free from moisture and moveable part are oiled regularly.
At the end of the day, it is the frequency of usage coupled with handling the personnel transfer basket with care and proper storage that determines its lifespan. Otherwise, with correct usage, it is just but one of the most crucial and handy safety devices to have at oil or gas rigs and offshore installations.
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