Maritime investigators are once again drawing attention to the hazards posed by free-fall lifeboats on commercial vessels following a serious incident involving the bulk carrier Golden Zhejiang. The Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) recently released a report detailing how an accidental release of a lifeboat during a routine safety check resulted in severe injuries to a crew member. This incident underscores the ongoing issue of unintended lifeboat releases, which frequently lead to injuries.
On September 2, 2023, while anchored in Trincomali Channel, British Columbia, the Golden Zhejiang was conducting a weekly safety check when a crew member sustained life-altering injuries after the lifeboat unexpectedly dropped into the water. Investigators determined that during the check, a malfunction was encountered while testing the steering from within the lifeboat. An attempt to address the issue inadvertently triggered the main release mechanism, causing the lifeboat to plunge into the water with crew still inside.
The TSB’s findings revealed that the cables securing the lifeboat were not designed or certified for load-bearing, rendering them unsafe for their intended use. The report noted that a pre-existing hydraulic leak had hindered the crew from conducting necessary drills, and although this defect had been recorded during monthly checks since June 2023, it had not been reported for repair.
In light of this incident, the TSB is advocating for enhanced safety protocols to avert similar occurrences in the future. Columbia Shipmanagement, which oversees over 400 vessels, has already initiated safety improvements, including updated lifeboat labeling and revised operational guidelines. Since 1996, the TSB has investigated multiple accidents involving free-fall lifeboats, all resulting in serious injuries, emphasizing the need for ongoing vigilance in maritime safety practices.
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