Swing Rope Transfer Safety

Swing ropes are one of the primary methods to transfer personnel to and from a platform structure, and on or off a motor vessel. It is also perhaps the most dangerous method and personnel must use extreme caution when transferring over water. Swing rope transfers should be viewed as a means of last resort method to transfer personnel. Transfers by personnel basket via crane or helicopter should always be considered a safer alternative to swing rope transfers.

In order to be as safe as possible, personnel should take into consideration and apply the following information when attempting a transfer by swing rope:

• Personnel must be deemed fit-for-duty, trained, and competent before attempting a swing rope transfer

• All personnel involved must complete a quality JSA (Job Safety Analysis) prior to a swing rope transfer to document conditions, i.e. wind, wave, rope, boat landing, and understand the hazards associated with the transfer

• Transfers should only be conducted in ideal weather conditions and between two, clear, and well-maintained decks of relatively equal heights

• Avoid swing rope transfers during rough seas or inclement weather

• Inspect, don, and securely fastened an approved USCG Personal Floatation Device (PFD) snugly around the body and in accordance to customer’s requirements prior to the transfer

• Establish communications with vessel Captain to ensure it is safe to transfer

• Use the inboard swing rope to safely transfer from vessel to platform, and the outboard swing rope to safely transfer from platform to vessel.  (Note: always use the farthest rope away from you to transfer)

• Always tug on the swing rope to test its strength and integrity to support your body weight

• Grab the knotted swing rope at the highest point possible and maintain a firm grip with both hands

• Never position the rope between your legs as it can interfere with your landing. Place it outside of your body

• When swinging from vessel to platform, transfer when the vessel dips down from the highest point of the wave by pushing off and lifting your feet to avoid striking vessel bumper or platform

• When swinging from platform to vessel the process is reversed, transfer as the boat begins to rise from the bottom of the wave. Coordinate your swing time so the feet land on the vessel deck as it rises

• Never run or jump when attempting to transfer with a swing rope

• After safely transferring to the vessel or platform, release the rope for the next person and assist them to ensure a safe transfer. A deck hand should also be available to assist. Never transfer alone

• Never conduct a swing rope transfer with object in hand(s), backpacks, tool belts, etc.

• Small and light weight items can be handed over safely. Heavy or bulky items must be transferred by use of crane

If you miss the vessel or platform during a swing rope transfer, continue to hold onto the rope. The rope will automatically swing back to the boat landing or vessel. If you fall into the water, swim away from the vessel to keep from getting entangled in the vessel’s wheel wash or pushed into the platform where barnacles could cause significant lacerations or loss of life. If any person does not feel comfortable to transfer by swing rope for any reason, do NOT attempt a transfer.

All personnel must determine if they can or cannot safely transfer by use of swing rope. Never let anyone influence your decision to swing. It is your decision to swing safely when you are ready.

Swing ropes, hardware, and boat landings should all be inspected prior to each transfer. Any deficiencies found on swing ropes, anchor points, assembly connectors (shackles), upper hardware (cable), or boat landings must be reported to the Supervisor or Person in Charge at once for immediate corrective action. Avoid risk and use Stop Work Authority if you are ever in doubt when attempting a swing rope transfer.

*REMEMBER: YOU HAVE THE RIGHT & RESPONSIBILITY TO STOP WORK THAT IS UNSAFE!*