Personnel transfer baskets

Figure 6. L Example of a Billy Pugh personnel transfer basket...

The personnel transfer basket also serves as a temporary life raft for its maximum capacity—typically four passengers. It should also be equipped with a tag line and have a shock-absorbing suspension that cushions impact when the basket is lowered to the moving deck of a boat. 

Personnel transfer baskets should not be used to raise or lower personnel into or out of tanks or other production vessels. 

HSE (2004). Health and Safety Executive Safety Notice (SN 10/80) April 2001, Guidance on Procedures for the Transfer of Personnel by Basket, HSE 2001 available on http //www.hse.gov.uk/offshore/notices/sn 10 80.htm. 

A deck hand must be on the deck of the boat during aU personnel transfers to assist with safe placement and landing of the basket He or she will coordinate lifting activities with the crane operator. 

Modern designs of transfer baskets provide a rigid structure and do not allow personnel to fall off them. There are two types commercially available. One is the Esvagt, which has a rigid frame construction with buoyancy ring and fenders. Personnel stand inside the basket. Another design is the Personnel Transfer Capsule a rigid frame device with buoyancy panels. Personnel sit strapped into bucket seats. 

Personnel baskets (sometimes called Billy Pugh baskets) are used to transfer personnel from platforms and rigs to and firom service boats. The basket (illustrated in Figure 15.1) consists of ropes attached to a hook at the top and a circular frame at the bottom. Personnel stand on the outside of the basket looking inwards. 

Only the persons assisting the transfer and personnel to be transferred on the personnel basket are to be in the pickup or set-down area. 

The crane operator, while transferring personnel between vessels or from a vessel to a platform, should raise the personnel basket only high enough off the deck to clear all obstructions. 

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