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Fire and explosion on tug resulting in loss of four lives
Applicable to:
All stakeholders
Effective Date:
26.12.2023
Superseded Circulars:
None
Key Changes and Requirements
1. Incident Summary
On 11.08.2019, a VLCC was discharging crude oil at Visakhapatnam SPM when squalls with winds up to 43 kts resulted in the parting of SPM mooring hawsers. This led to the breaking of cargo transfer hoses, causing oil pollution. A tug, undergoing repairs, was unable to handle the leaking hose and caught fire while attempting to remove the breakaway coupling, resulting in four fatalities.
2. Causal Factors and Action Taken
- Causal Factors: Inadequate tug capabilities, non-seaworthy condition, lack of supervision, and disregard for statutory provisions.
- Action Taken: Remove leaking MBC, transfer leaking oil to empty tank, rescue personnel, and transfer injured to hospital.
Lessons Learnt: All vessels must be fit for purpose, replacement vessels should match capabilities, adequate supervision is required, and timely actions should be taken to counter weather conditions.
Important Note
All stakeholders are advised to ensure compliance with the lessons learnt to prevent such incidents in the future.
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