Florida Marine Contractors Association
a Florida Non Profit Corporation

Dusky Pigmy Rattlesnake on Barge

Posted on Sep 12 in News

Ferreira Southern Division:

Rattlesnake

Yesterday , September 9th, The crews working on barges at City Side discovered a dusky pigmy rattle snake in the wood crane mats. These snakes are highly venomous and pose a very serious threat to life and limb. The seemingly unlikely location of this snake, on a barge, points out the fact that dangers are present and more likely to happen when / where  they are not anticipated. This incident combined with my personal encounter with a 6 + foot eastern diamond back rattle snake at our office door, has given me concern that there is a need to address this real potential  danger in our Florida work environment.

Please insure that all foremen and supervisors add this incident immediately to their JSA’s and insure that all personnel sign acknowledging they have been briefed on this incident , precautions  to avoid a snake bite, and proper first aid in the event of a bite. As always JSA’s should always include planned actions should an injury occur.

First

The general reaction of a the crew on site was shock that a snake could be on board the vessel. The bottom line is snakes swim!

Central Florida’s Venomous Snakes:  There are four venomous snakes found in the Central Florida area: the eastern coral snake, theFlorida cottonmouth, also known as the water moccasin, the dusky pygmy rattlesnake, and the eastern diamondback rattlesnake. I have attached photos of each so employees are able to properly identify these serious threats.

Snakes eat rats , roaches , birds  and various other creatures that seek refuge on our vessels. Crane mats can create the perfect environment for snake prey. Snakes are very capable of swing to and climbing aboard any of our vessels. Because of this precautions such as:

  • Inspect item to be lifted for obvious signs of shelter for snakes and spiders
  • When lifting be wary of a potential surprised snake attack
  • Whenever  possible Lift items in a manner that protects the person lifting from anything underneath (please demonstrate this to personnel and insure they understand)
  • Do not reach into holes or cavities without first inspecting the hole for potential dangers
  • When a snake is encountered do not harass or torment it.

Rattlesnake 2

Second

Know what to do if we incur a snake bite!

  • How to identify a bite if snake is unseen
  • Note the Snake’s Appearance ,Be ready to describe the snake to emergency staff.
  • Protect the Person
  • While waiting for medical help:
    • Move the person beyond striking distance of the snake.
    • Have the person lie down with wound below the heart.
    • Keep the person still to keep venom from spreading.
    • Cover the wound with loose, sterile bandage.

       Do not:

  • Cut a bite wound
  • Attempt to suck out venom
  • Apply tourniquet, ice, or water
  • Give the person alcohol or caffeinated drinks
  • Ensure all crew members know  the above in regards to treating victim
  • Planned route to hospital