- The chief officer suffered a fatal cardiac condition while working unaccompanied in an enclosed space (cofferdam) during a voyage.
- Delayed medical assistance and possible undisclosed health conditions contributed to the tragic outcome.
- Safety measures and compliance with medical history disclosure are emphasized in the investigation’s recommendations.
On 25 June 2021, the chief officer of a vessel traveling from Rotterdam to Gebze entered the starboard cofferdam alone to perform maintenance. Shortly after, the crew realized he was unresponsive. Emergency rescue efforts were initiated, including CPR and air evacuation, but the officer was pronounced dead at a hospital the following day, reports MSIU.
What Happened
The chief officer entered the cofferdam around 1300 hours without notifying other crew members, except a newly joined deck cadet.
Approximately 30 minutes later, he was found unresponsive.
Rescue efforts involved SCBA-equipped crew members, CPR, and a distress signal.
A SAR helicopter evacuated the officer after 4.5 hours, but he succumbed to a cardiac condition.
Why It Happened
Health Issues: The autopsy revealed ischemic myocardial lesions. Although the chief officer was certified fit for duty, evidence suggested undisclosed high blood pressure and related treatment.
Enclosed Space Procedures: Entry was unsupervised, violating standard protocols.
Delayed Medical Response: Remote location and prolonged rescue process delayed professional care.
Precautions
Ensure strict compliance with enclosed space entry protocols, requiring supervision and communication.
Encourage transparent health declarations during pre-employment medical examinations.
Safety Actions Taken
- Conducted safety meetings and issued urgent alerts emphasizing enclosed space entry procedures.
- Focused audits and training programs on enclosed space incidents.
- Developed a reflective learning tool for crew members on task planning and supervision.
- Enhanced guidelines for managing unplanned tasks in the Company’s safety procedures.
Recommendations
- Issue circulars advising crew members of the importance of accurate medical history during pre-joining medical examinations.
- Continuously review and enforce safety measures for enclosed space operations across the fleet.
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Source: MSIU
