- A cargo operation involving steel pipes nearly resulted in significant vessel and cargo damage due to poor crane control, prompting the use of a “Stop Work” authority.
- The vessel’s Officer on Watch and Chief Officer collaborated with stevedores to reassess procedures and implement safer handling practices.
- Timely intervention avoided further damage, highlighting the importance of vigilance, communication, and quick decision-making in port operations.
During the offloading of steel pipes from a bulk carrier using its onboard cranes, operations initially proceeded without issue. The Officer on Watch (OOW) was overseeing the process, while the crane was operated under the direction of a stevedore foreman. However, the situation quickly deteriorated when a large steel pipe swung unexpectedly and collided with the bulkhead separating the cargo hold from a ballast wing tank. The impact damaged the pipe and punctured the tank. Alarmed by this, the OOW warned the crane operator, but the next lift again swung dangerously close to the same bulkhead.
Swift Intervention to Ensure Safety
Realizing the potential risk of continued operations, the OOW promptly contacted the Chief Officer (CO), who used his authority to stop the work under the vessel’s safety protocols. The OOW documented the incident with photographs and a detailed report. The CO and OOW then met with the stevedore foreman and crane operators to evaluate the causes and introduce corrective measures.
A Collaborative Safety Dialogue
The meeting—essentially a toolbox talk—focused on key safety improvements such as reducing the lifting and crane swing speeds, and enhancing communication between the crane operator and the hatch team to better monitor cargo swing and spatial clearance. These adjustments allowed cargo operations to resume safely, with no further incidents or damage.
The Financial and Operational Impact
Despite the swift response, the incident led to tangible losses. Damage to the cargo—a large pipe—was valued at $3,500. Repairs to the punctured ballast wing tank bulkhead cost approximately $17,000, and the vessel’s stay in port was extended by 36 hours due to repair work.
A Textbook Example of a “Good Catch”
This incident underscores the critical role of a proactive safety culture onboard. The crew’s decision to halt operations, consult with stakeholders, and take immediate corrective action prevented more extensive damage. The vigilance shown by the OOW and the professional handling by the CO exemplify how hazards can be mitigated through timely intervention, open communication, and a shared commitment to operational safety. This scenario is a classic illustration of what the American Club refers to as a “Good Catch.”
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Source: American Steamship Owners Mutual Protection & Indemnity Association
