Ropeblock confirms initial reports that hook on DEME crane failed

The incident occurred when the vessel’s crane was being tested at Liebherr in Rostock, Germany.

During the test, the ship’s 5,000-tonne crane hook failed. This seems to have caused the crane to swing backwards and collapse.

The load at which hook failure occurred was provisionally determined at approximately 2,600 tonnes.

“Our hearts go out to the injured and all others involved in the accident,” Ropeblock said. “We greatly appreciate the emergency services’ swift response.

“We are appalled at the impact that this incident has on our customer Liebherr, and on the industry as a whole.”

Ropeblock provided the design of the crane’s lifting blocks, including the hook. The hook was manufactured by a certified supplier that is familiar with this kind of work.

Prior to manufacture the design was verified by an authorised body.

“The limited information available seems to confirm that the hook’s stem broke,” said Ropeblock. “However, the exact course of events and cause remain unknown for now and are being investigated.

“With 25 years of service, Ropeblock is a respected and proven partner for the heavy lift industry. We are shocked by the incident and are committed to the independent investigation that is now underway to establish the course of events and the root cause. We are currently unable to make any further statements.”