Download PDF

1. This circular highlights the safety concerns arising from a collision incident reported on a vessel under IRS classification. A collision incident recently reported for vessel due to main engine control failure occurred when she is being navigated for port entry under supervision of pilot.

The vessel made soft contact with assisting tugs, causing mooring ropes to part resulting in minor injury to a shore crew member. 

2. The incident was attributed to a main engine control failure specifically malfunctioning of the ahead/astern lever for the main engine.

3. Based on lessons learned from this incident, implementing the following measures can significantly mitigate the risk of recurrence:

a. Ensuring mandatory pre-maneuver testing protocols for propulsion including its control systems are followed at all times and diligently tested prior to critical maneuvers.

b. Maintenance carried out at regular intervals as per OEM recommendation including periodic OEM inspections and certification of control units as necessary.

c. Reinforce training on emergency engine stoppage and safe mooring practices including risks associated with standing near mooring lines under tension.

d. Regular training and familiarization of crew to ensure their competence in handling machinery control failures.

4. Owners & Managers are to take note of above in order that corrective actions can be taken to avoid similar situations in future.

Enclosure: Nil

This Technical Circular and the material contained in it is provided only for the purpose of supplying current information to the reader and not as an advice to be relied upon by any person. While we have taken utmost care to be as factual as possible, readers/ users are advised to verify the exact text and content of the Regulation from the original source/ issuing Authority.                     

 Download PDF