Sivumut – Person Overboard & Cargo Loss

TSB Canada: Marine transportation safety investigation report M23C0305 – Incident in Frobisher Bay

What Happened: The cargo vessel Sivumut, operating in the challenging waters of Frobisher Bay, Nunavut, experienced a critical incident involving a person overboard and the subsequent loss of cargo. This dual event highlights the inherent risks associated with maritime operations in remote and often harsh environments, underscoring the critical importance of robust safety protocols for both personnel and cargo integrity. The incident necessitated emergency response procedures for a man overboard situation while simultaneously dealing with the compromise of the vessel’s cargo securing arrangements.

Immediate Operational Checks:

• Review and conduct immediate drills for Man Overboard (MOB) procedures, ensuring all crew members are proficient in recovery techniques, deployment of rescue equipment, and cold water survival protocols.
• Inspect all cargo securing arrangements, including lashing, dunnage, and stowage plans, to confirm they are appropriate for anticipated weather and sea conditions and that all equipment is in good working order.
• Verify the readiness and accessibility of all life-saving appliances, including lifebuoys with lights and smoke signals, rescue boats, and personal flotation devices (PFDs) for all personnel working on deck.
• Conduct a comprehensive safety briefing emphasizing the risks of working near open decks, the importance of wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), and clear communication channels during emergencies.
• Assess the vessel’s stability and trim, particularly after any cargo shifts or losses, and ensure emergency procedures for managing such situations are understood and readily available.

Lessons Learned:

• The incident underscores the critical need for continuous training and drills for man overboard scenarios, especially in cold water environments where survival time is significantly reduced. This includes the effective use of recovery equipment and the coordination of bridge and deck teams.
• Robust cargo securing practices are paramount. This involves not only proper lashing and stowage but also regular checks during the voyage, particularly in areas prone to heavy weather or ice conditions, to prevent cargo shifting or loss that could exacerbate an emergency.
• A thorough risk assessment for all deck operations, especially in adverse weather or challenging geographical areas, must be conducted, leading to the implementation of appropriate control measures, including mandatory PPE and restricted access to hazardous areas.
• Effective communication protocols and emergency response plans must be well-rehearsed and clearly understood by all crew members to ensure a swift and coordinated response to complex incidents involving multiple simultaneous failures.

Tags: Person Overboard, MOB, Cargo Securing, Cold Water Immersion, Arctic Operations, Emergency Response

Official Report

Read the full safety report here: Marine transportation safety investigation report M23C0305