HVL - Cabin inspections - for equipment operating cabins with floor level windows (Updated 28/01/2026 to include reference to drilling cabins as well as crane cabins)

Description of Incident

Who could be interested in this?

Onshore Leadership, Cranes Services Companies, Drilling Companies, Marine Companies, Logistics companies, OIMs, Site Managers, Service Team Leaders, Crane Operators, Crane Maintenance Staff, Deck Crew Foreman, Deck Crew, Safety Reps.

What is this all about?

This High Value Learning (HVL) has been created following the release of IADC Safety Alert Hidden Hazard: Glass Panels Exposed When Grating Removed (Alert 25 – 9)

A fatal incident occurred 14th November 2025 on a drilling rig in the North Sea when an individual fell from height.

Some things to consider.

Carry out inspections of all crane equipment operating cabins and record the findings. The following checklist can be used:

• Q1: Conduct an inspection of all equipment operating cabin windows and floor panels. State condition and confirm they are secure or not.

• Q2: Is a floor window incorporated into the design of the cabin?

• Q3: If so, is a floor grid/grating fitted, how is it secured and does it cover the entire window?

• Q4: Is the floor grid/grating supported by the steel frame of the window? (The window pane should not be supporting any load)

• Q5: If the floor grid/grating must be removed for cleaning of the window, how is the task conducted?

• Q6: Is there a formal procedure, or permit to work (PTW) and risk assessment in place for removing floor grid/grating and does it address how to prevent a fall through an exposed window?

• Q7: Are there any other workplace hazards that exist which could result in injury, fall from height or dropped object?