Gard is observing a worrying trend of leaks from containers carrying hazardous cargo. These incidents pose significant safety and environmental risks. Both crew members and shore-based company personnel must be well-informed about the importance of rapid response to prevent these situations from worsening, reports Gard.
Significant Consequences
Leaks of hazardous materials like nitric acid pose serious risks. A vessel recently experienced a nitric acid leak that, nearly two weeks later, led to a fire, causing major environmental damage and the complete loss of the ship and its cargo. Thankfully, the crew escaped unharmed. The investigation revealed failures to address the leak and contain the spill, and highlighted similar incidents involving nitric acid.
Nitric acid is classified as a corrosive (Class 8) and oxidizing (Class 5.1) substance under the IMDG Code. It reacts with metals, releasing flammable hydrogen gas, and can generate heat, potentially corroding through hatch covers and into the hold.
Some Cases
Underestimating the potential consequences of hazardous goods leaks can lead to critical time loss. This includes delays in:
- Onboard Response: The ship and crew may not be adequately prepared for an escalating situation.
- External Cooperation: Persuading charterers or shippers to address the problem, and obtaining cooperation from shore authorities, can take significant time.
Gard’s experience highlights these challenges:
- In one case, a vessel was initially prohibited from washing nitric acid overboard (even though it’s not a marine pollutant) and later from landing the leaking container.
- In another instance, charterers suggested diverting to a further port due to difficulties landing a leaking nitric acid container. This delay resulted in the situation worsening, with visible fumes emanating from the hold. It took almost a week for the vessel to be allowed into port to discharge the affected containers. An inspection revealed damage to the hatch cover beneath the leaking container.
Gard intervened in these situations, providing 24/7 assistance through its emergency response resources, regional offices, and external experts. They also worked to expedite container discharge with charterers and collaborated with salvors on contingency plans.
Key Recommendations
When dealing with hazardous goods leaks, immediate access to critical information and swift action are crucial. Here’s a breakdown of key recommendations:
- Onboard Information: Ships must have readily available IMDG cargo information, including stowage location, DG manifest, packing list, Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), and emergency contact numbers. The container should also be properly placarded. This information is vital for seeking expert advice and determining immediate crew actions.
- Spill Response: The IMDG Code generally advises washing spills overboard with plenty of water, unless the substance reacts dangerously with water. In such cases, use remote methods like rigging a fire hose from upwind. Avoid washing the substance into the hold.
- Crew Safety: Prioritize crew safety before investigating any leak, especially if enclosed space entry is required. Inert absorbent can be used for containment under deck.
- Leak Spread: If the leak affects other cargo, particularly other dangerous goods, the situation can rapidly worsen, requiring expert assistance. For nitric acid, be vigilant for pale yellow to reddish-brown fumes, indicating a reaction.
- Diversion Decision: If a leak is discovered at sea, the crew may need to decide quickly whether to divert to a port where the situation can be contained and the container removed. Charterers can assist with terminal coordination, and portable containment equipment can typically be brought in, even if the terminal lacks dedicated hazmat facilities.
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Source: Gard
