Marine operators are being warned to take a closer look at safety wires to prevent a serious accident.

It follows a near-miss during an incident onboard a cargo ship in Wellington.

As a lifeboat was being hoisted back onboard the ship all four wire hoists snapped, causing the lifeboat to tumble back into the sea.

One of the crew members had already released his restraints in anticipation of disembarking and hit his head as he was thrown about.

The Transport Accident Investigation Commission recommends the practice of totally wrapping wires with plastic be stopped - to ensure the quality of wires can be easily seen and prevent future accidents.