An incident involving an uncoordinated emergency shutdown during tanker cargo operations was reported and analyzed by IMCA (International Marine Contractors Association).
What Happened
During cargo discharging at a terminal, all cargo pumps tripped simultaneously when the Emergency Shutdown (ESD) system was activated. A duty crewmember, while on a routine pump room patrol, noticed a minor leak and immediately triggered the ESD without first coordinating with the Cargo Control Room (CCR). This caused an unexpected halt to operations. The leak was later assessed as non-critical, no injuries occurred, and operations resumed after safety confirmation
Why It Happened
The direct cause was a fractured copper tube on the suction side of one cargo pump, resulting from prolonged vibration fatigue. Several safety factors contributed.
Actions Taken
Shipboard ESD activation procedures were amended to include mandatory communication and verification steps. Additional training on emergency response coordination was provided for both deck crew and CCR operators. Periodic vibration risk assessments were introduced for suction-side pipelines and components. Consideration was given to installing vibration dampers or supports on vulnerable tubing sections.
Lessons Learned
Free Click
Source: IMCA
