The Liberia Maritime Authority has issued a safety advisory after two serious accidents occurred on Liberian-flagged vessels during tug line operations. The incidents, both resulting in severe leg injuries, underscore the urgent need for stricter adherence to safety procedures, better supervision, and improved communication during tug handling.
Details of the Marine Casualties
The first incident occurred while a vessel was departing port. During tug disconnection, the Bosun’s leg was caught in the bight of the messenger line, leading to an amputation above the ankle. Investigations revealed that the line was not properly secured, situational awareness was lacking, and the Chief Officer was engaged in manual handling instead of supervision and coordination.
The second accident happened during berthing operations at another port. A crew member’s leg passed through the eye of a tug line under high tension, causing a traumatic amputation upon release. While the crew’s emergency response was swift, the injury was severe.
In both cases, inadequate supervision, poor communication, and unsafe crew positioning near tensioned lines were identified as key contributing factors.
Recommended Safety Measures
The Liberia Maritime Authority has urged all shipowners, operators, and crew to implement the following preventive measures:
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Review safety procedures: Conduct formal risk assessments, ensure ISM Code compliance, and consider using work permits for tug line handling.
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Enhance training: Provide vessel-specific training on tug line hazards and include scenario-based learning.
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Improve supervision: Officers should maintain oversight and visual contact rather than participate directly in line handling.
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Strengthen communication: Use standardized hand signals and radio communication with tug operators, and promptly report operational issues.
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Promote fleet-wide awareness: Share lessons learned through safety alerts and pre-joining briefings for deck crews.
The Liberia Maritime Authority emphasized that vigilance, procedural discipline, and effective communication are essential to preventing tug line accidents. The advisory serves as a reminder for all maritime stakeholders to proactively review and reinforce safety practices to safeguard seafarers during port operations.
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Source: Safety4Sea
