- Fatigue caused the 2/O to doze off, leading to the ship running aground.
- BNWAS, the safety system was deactivated, and no lookout was assigned.
- The master failed to report the incident promptly, worsening the response.
On 20 September 2021, a general cargo ship traveling from Ukraine to Bulgaria deviated from its planned course and ran aground in the Yailata Protected Area. The incident occurred at 0413 hours when the 2/O, in charge of the midnight-to-4 AM watch, fell asleep on duty. The ship missed a critical turn and continued straight toward the rocky coast at a speed of 7.8 knots. Coastal authorities attempted to contact the ship, but no response was received. According to Britannia Pandi, the ship sustained hull damage, and water entered several ballast tanks, though no immediate pollution was reported.
Why Did It Happen?
The 2/O had been overworked, handling administrative and translation tasks, leading to extreme exhaustion. Despite regulations, no additional lookout was present, leaving the bridge unattended.
The Bridge Navigational Watch Alarm System, designed to alert the crew if the officer on duty became incapacitated, was manually turned off.
The ship’s course was altered without documentation, and the master failed to promptly report the incident, delaying response efforts.
Conclusion & Lessons Learned
This incident highlights the severe risks of fatigue, poor safety compliance, and delayed communication.
Strict fatigue management, mandatory BNWAS activation, and continuous lookout monitoring are essential to preventing such accidents.
The master’s role in ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols is crucial to maintaining navigational safety.
Safety Recommendations
- Mandatory Rest Periods: Ensure crew members receive adequate sleep to remain alert.
- BNWAS Activation: Always keep the system operational to detect incapacitated watchkeepers.
- Lookout Requirements: Assign an additional lookout during night watches and in high-risk areas.
- Emergency Response Protocols: Immediate reporting to coastal authorities should be enforced.
- Proper Documentation: All course deviations must be logged and approved by the master.
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Source: Britannia Pandi
