Marine Accident Reconstruction Case Histories - Course 1

In Marine Accident Reconstruction Case Histories - Course 1 , you'll learn ...

• Review of catastrophic vessel sinking incidents, including causes and lessons learned to be applied in the future
• Design of propeller guards to prevent accidents associated with self-actuated transmission systems
• Slips and falls in the marine industry, including calculation of anti-slip coefficient of friction, industry standards, friction measuring devices and acceptance criteria
• Definition of terms and applicable industry standards for stairs, ladders and handrails installed on marine vessels

Overview

Credit: 6 PDH

Length: 50 pages

Working on a boat or offshore oil rig is dangerous business. The worst disasters in the marine industry, in terms of loss of life, have involved the sinking of vessels. As illustrated in Case Study #1 of this course, a relatively small vessel can sink in less than 30 seconds after a problem is recognized. Numerous case studies in the course are presented dealing with the capsizing and sinking of marine vessels. The causes are different in each case - propeller seal leak, free surface effects, shifting of cargo - but the results were the same; catastrophic loss of life.

This course will investigate 3 case histories involving the sinking of vessels, resulting in multiple fatalities. Seven (7) additional case studies will review other marine industry accidents, including slips and falls, stairways and ladders, propeller guards, confined space entry and unsecured watertight hatch covers. Finally, a gasoline explosion on a 32-foot aluminum cruiser will be studied.

In each of the case studies, the circumstances of the accident are covered, as well as lessons to be learned from the incident. Recommendations for preventing similar tragedies in the future are discussed. The case studies involving slips and falls and and stairways and ladders also cover design guidelines that the engineer should follow to prevent injury to personnel.