According to foreign media reports, a ro-ro ship flying the flag of St. Kitts and Nevis, the “Hermes,” capsized suddenly while undergoing maintenance at the Yildiz Shipyard in the Tuzla shipbuilding area of Istanbul, resulting in the death of one Ukrainian worker and injuries to four others.
The 101-meter-long vessel listed sharply to port around 2:30 PM local time on Thursday while mechanical repairs were being conducted.
When the “Hermes” capsized, several workers on board were unable to disembark in time and were thrown into the water. Simultaneously, some hatch covers and other heavy components detached, some striking nearby workers who failed to evade in time, and others falling into the water, causing secondary injuries to those in the water.
This quickly triggered an emergency response from the local coast guard, fire department, and medical teams.
Local authorities confirmed that a 46-year-old Ukrainian citizen, Yevgen Vasiuk, tragically died after being trapped under an evacuation slide hatch. His body was subsequently sent to the Forensic Medicine Institute for examination. The four injured individuals have been taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Data shows that the “Hermes” is a 5,104 deadweight ton vessel, built in 1997 by the PS Werft shipyard in Wolgast, Germany, and previously operated under the name “Atlantic Supplier.”
It was reported that the ship was undergoing repair work in the dock at the time of the incident. The specific cause of the accident is still under investigation.
Basic Principles of Escape
Prioritize evacuating the danger area: If the hull is listing, causing pressure on one side, move away from the pressurized area as quickly as possible to avoid being crushed or falling.
Don life-saving equipment: Upon hearing the shipwreck alarm, immediately put on a life jacket and evacuate according to the directions on the emergency evacuation diagram.
Stay calm: Avoid jumping into the water blindly or panicking; follow the crew’s instructions and evacuate in an orderly manner.
Specific Scenario Responses
Collision between two ships: Quickly leave the collision area, hold onto fixed objects to prevent falls, and abandon ship in an emergency.
Ship taking on water: Close watertight doors and organize plugging leaks; if uncontrollable, adjust the ship’s bow to head into the wind and heave to, drop anchor to avoid beam seas.
After abandoning ship: Move away from the sinking ship to avoid being sucked into a vortex; if jumping into the water is necessary, choose a low point, avoid floating objects, and enter the water from the windward side.
Important Notes
Avoid blindly using the engine, rudder, or reversing, as this may worsen the listing.
Do not jump into the sea without wearing a life jacket; ensure it is correctly donned before evacuating.
Compiled by Shipping Online.
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