NTSB Report Reveals Cause Of Tow Collision On The Mississippi River

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has revealed the cause of a tow collision on the Mississippi River. The incident occurred on 9th January 2023 and involved towing vessels Big D and Carol McManus near Fort Adams, Mississippi. Nineteen barges were pushed downbound by the Big D, and Forty-two barges were pushed upbound by the Carol McManus. Approximately 1,380 gallons of ethanol spilled into the river, and multiple barges broke free as a result of the collision, severely damaging both tows. There were two reported mild injuries, and the estimated cost of the barge damages was $1.36 million.

According to the NTSB’s investigation, the Carol McManus pilot misinterpreted the agreed-upon passing arrangement, leading to the vessel intruding on the Big D tow and the fatal collision. The pilots of both vessels had discussed a port-to-port transit agreement over VHF radio before the incident. The Carol McManus pilot, however, could not recall this configuration precisely when navigating.

The Inland Navigation Rules convey that when two vessels encounter or traverse, they must use a VHF radio or whistle to indicate their intention of navigating. The collision occurred from the Carol McManus pilot’s improper navigation of the tow towards the right-hand descending bank, despite the previous agreement. There was not enough time for either pilot to move to escape the collision.

This tragic collision caused damage to six barges in the Big D Tow, including hull and deck plate indentations, damaged framing, and harm to the piping and deck machinery. The approximate damage cost of repairing the Big D tow was $877,000. The barge FMT1052 experienced a break in its expansion tank and pipe systems, which led to the spill of about 1,380 gallons of ethanol into the river. On the other hand, the collision also caused damage to eight barges in the Carol McManus tow, including hull and deck plate indentation and damage to pipe and deck fittings. The estimated amount required to repair the Carol McManus tow damages was $ 479,977. No pollution from the damaged barges of the Carol McManus tow has been reported.

The primary cause of the collision between the vessels, determined by the National Transportation Safety Board, was most likely the Carol McManus pilot’s incorrect recalling of the agreed-upon passing arrangement, resulting in the Carol McManus tow encroaching on the downbound Big D tow.

The NTSB highlights the importance of repeating passing arrangements, particularly when obstacles hinder clear communication, such as distorted transmissions, accents, exhaustion, or distractions. Repeating the suggested arrangement guarantees seafarers a shared understanding and solidifies the agreed-upon plan.

According to the report, verbal repeating of passing arrangements confirms understanding amongst operators and improves the retention of information until needed. In this case, the accident could have been prevented if the Carol McManus pilot had followed the prearranged protocol again.

The NTSB suggests that proper communication and adherence to passing arrangements are essential to avoid crashes and ensure marine safety.

Reference: NTSB

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