container at Hamilton docks yesterday morning.

Last night John Daniels, a Stevedoring Services employee was in stable condition at King Edward VII Memorial Hospital, following the incident aboard the Bermuda Islander .

Mr. Daniels fell eight feet from the top of a container on the ship, which was about to be unloaded from the vessel, at 9 a.m.

It is understood Mr. Daniels fell whilst setting up a ladder to climb down from the container. He suffered head and shoulder injuries.

An investigation involving Health and Safety officials and Police has been launched into the incident.

Assistant Health and Safety officer Harry Powell said: "He was using the proper ladder for its proper purpose. I am quite satisfied it wasn't poor equipment.'' A Stevedoring Services manager confirmed Mr. Daniels fell exactly eight feet, six inches to the deck.