Real Life Incident: Collision In Plain Sight
A partially loaded tanker was underway at about 12 knots in a safety fairway. An OOW and lookout were on duty and the helm was on
autopilot. Daylight was beginning to fade but night had not yet fallen.
Ahead and to port the two bridge team members saw a fishing boat coming in their direction. Both believed, from visual observations, that it would pass astern. The Master and the second mate were also on the bridge but were working on ship’s business on computers.
At one point the chief engineer came to the bridge to talk to the Master. As he looked out of the window he saw the fishing vessel at
very close range.
His exclamation caught the Master’s attention and the Master left the work station to see the fishing vessel for himself. He immediately ordered hand steering and starboard helm as well as the sounding of the ship’s whistle.
Meanwhile on the fishing boat, the lone watchkeeper had been cleaning when he heard a metallic sound, which turned out to be the first contact of the fishing vessel’s outriggers with the side of the tanker. He tried to turn the vessel but it was too late and it made heavy contact
with the tanker.
Lessons learned
- Many collisions can be attributed to ineffective lookout and low situational awareness. This accident is yet another example.
- Never assume the give-way vessel will pass ahead or astern; plot the targets and follow the situation until all clear.
- Undertaking other duties that distract from your navigation responsibilities, as on the fishing vessel in this instance, is a recipe for an accident.
Reference:Â nautinst.org
Do you have info to share with us ? Suggest a correction
About Author
Marine Insight News Network is a premier source for up-to-date, comprehensive, and insightful coverage of the maritime industry. Dedicated to offering the latest news, trends, and analyses in shipping, marine technology, regulations, and global maritime affairs, Marine Insight News Network prides itself on delivering accurate, engaging, and relevant information.
About Author
Marine Insight News Network is a premier source for up-to-date, comprehensive, and insightful coverage of the maritime industry. Dedicated to offering the latest news, trends, and analyses in shipping, marine technology, regulations, and global maritime affairs, Marine Insight News Network prides itself on delivering accurate, engaging, and relevant information.
- Real Life Incident: Vessel Collision in Good Visibility
- Real Life Incident: Severe Injury To Deck Crew While Leaving Berth
- Real Life Incident: Departure Damage in Very Restricted Waterway
- Real Life Incident: Low Situational Awareness Has High Impact Consequence
- Real Life Incident: Fouled Anchor in a Designated Anchorage
- Real Life Incident: Fire On Barge Carrying Scrap Metal Causes $7 Million Worth Of Damage
Latest Case studies Articles You Would Like:
Subscribe To Our Newsletters
By subscribing, you agree to our Privacy Policy and may receive occasional deal communications; you can unsubscribe anytime.