205: Other Misunderstood Communications
Definition/Typical Issues
Did someone misunderstand a hand signal? Was a sign misunderstood? Was another method of communicating misunderstood?
Examples
Example 1
- A crane operator misunderstood a hand signal. As a result, the load struck a process line.
Example 2
- A sign that showed the directions for correcting a problem with a sandblaster was misunderstood by personnel attempting to fix it. As a result, a part of the sandblaster was broken.
Example 3
- A contractor was assigned the task of digging a ditch to install an underground tank. An engineer used flags to mark areas that should be avoided so as not to disturb underground utilities. The contractor thought the flags marked the spot to dig. As a result, a natural gas line feeding the plant was struck and broken.
Typical Recommendations
- Use standard hand signals for crane operations.
- Have end users review the content of signs before installing them.
- Use unambiguous communications methods.
- Solicit feedback to ensure that the communication was understood.
- Provide a means to alert all personnel of the emergency.
- Ensure that all personnel at the facility, including contractors, can recognize emergency alarms and know what actions to take for each type of alarm.
Cross-References
| Maritime Element(s) | |
|---|---|
| Node ID | Node Name |
| 233 | Garbled Message |