The Charity
Aviation
Maritime
CHIRP Comment:
Here is another company investigation report of a high standard; whilst the format is slightly different, the results are similar in effect.
At 04:59 a loaded merchant vessel collided with a wooden fishing vessel of less than 20m in international waters. The fishing vessel sustained extensive damage above the waterline but safely made port under her own power. The fishing vessel’s crew suffered minor injuries and the merchant vessel sustained minor scuffing damage.
The 04-08 morning bridge watch consisted of an experienced Officer of the Watch (OOW) and a JOS (Junior Ordinary Seaman) lookout. At the time of the collision it was dark, the visibility was good (>8nm), the wind was light, the sea state was calm and the traffic density was light. The vessel was approaching a waypoint to alter course from 295° G to 270°G. A red light was reported by the lookout fine to port at 04:41 and again reported to port at 04:56 but was assumed by the OOW to be a target further away (>9 nm).
The OOW was monitoring the 3cm radar and reports that no target was observed on this unit. The Simplified Voyage Data Recorder (SVDR) shows that the target was picked up quite clearly by the 10cm radar. As the vessel approached the new course of 270°G a single red light and corresponding silhouette was observed directly ahead before being lost from view beneath the bow. The collision occurred at 04:59 when a light bang was reported coming from forward. On moving to the starboard side of the bridge the OOW and the lookout observed a fishing vessel was passing down the starboard side. The Master was immediately informed.
The vessel reduced to manoeuvring revolutions and turned around to assist the fishing vessel. The vessel’s rescue boat and lifesaving appliances were prepared. The nearest coast radio station and coastguard were informed. The vessel attempted to make radio contact with the fishing vessel but this was not successful, possibly due to the damage sustained during the collision. The Operators 24hr duty phone was called and operator advised of the situation. Damage to the vessel was assessed and found to be minimal. The vessel stood by until a coastguard vessel rendezvoused with the fishing vessel to escort her into port. Upon instruction from the local authorities the vessel continued on her voyage. After the incident the OOW concerned was removed from watch keeping duties and was repatriated at the next opportunity.
Investigation by the Operator
An investigation team boarded the vessel at the earliest opportunity. Statements were taken and evidence removed from the vessel, included the SVDR data. The OOW concerned attended the operator’s office for a further interview. Following a review of the investigation report, the VDR data and the interview with the OOW, the following conclusions were made:-
NOTE: 10 cm (S band) radar provide better detection at longer range and 3cm (X band) radar provides better definition at smaller ranges.
With respect to the conduct of the OOW, the investigation team concluded that:
Lessons Learnt /Key Messages
Close Out Action Taken by the Operator / Preventative Action
The Maritime Advisory Board wishes to draw attention to and commend two aspects of this report in addition to its general high standard; firstly the fact the merchant ship stood by ready to render assistance after the collision, an action reportedly often not taken, and secondly, the company’s commitment to sharing the information as widely as possible. CHIRP is more than pleased to play its part in this.