In recent weeks, the Norwegian Maritime Authority (NMA) has registered several incidents where ice is stated to be the cause, both in occupational accidents and ship accidents. They have also received several accident reports after strong wind has caused docked vessels to break free from moorings or sink at the quay.
Causes
The accumulation of snow and ice on board has caused smaller vessels to sink at the quay. Ice on decks, rails or superstructures does not only make surfaces slippery. Ice and large amounts of snow also alter the vessel’s stability.
When the stability is weakened, wind and waves will have a greater effect, and there will be a risk of the vessel listing or capsizing.
Strong and gusty winds have also been stated as the cause of vessels breaking free from moorings, drifting when using the anchor or struggling to get to port.
Weather conditions
Norway has a long coastline and many vessels operating in cold and weather-exposed areas. There have been several storms this winter, and the weather has shifted between rain and snow many times.
When the seawater has a low temperature and is being whipped up and hits a vessel or land area, it can quickly freeze. The frozen water builds up layers and causes problems. Several warnings of strong wind and/or ice have been issued this winter, and we need to take them seriously.
What to do?
Precautions can be taken when entering deck or quay areas. Be careful and think before walking on these areas, especially when it is cold with a risk of ice. Accidents can happen, but there are a number of things you can do to avoid a visit to the doctor or the hospital.
If a vessel is docked, there is a need to pay attention to ice and snow on the vessel. Make sure the vessel is securely moored, and that the hawsers and morring equipment are not damaged or likely to be damaged.
It is also necessary to review procedures and risk assessments keeping in mind wind and other weather conditions that could change previous assessments. When staying in a port for a long period, you should consider if there should be crew on board, or if watchkeeping and supervision of the vessel from shore is adequate.
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Source: SDIR
