On 2 September 2023, the bulk carrier Golden Zhejiang, while anchored in Trincomali Channel, British Columbia, experienced a safety incident resulting in the accidental release of a free-fall lifeboat and crew injury. According to the Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB), during a routine safety check, the second engineer encountered an issue with the steering mechanism inside the lifeboat. While troubleshooting, he inadvertently activated the main release mechanism, causing the lifeboat to drop into the water and injuring him severely.
The vessel Golden Zhejiang, built in 2010 by Zhoushan Jinhaiwan Shipyard Co. Ltd., China, has a gross tonnage of 92,270 tons and is 292 meters long overall. It was at the time being operated by Columbia Shipmanagement Ltd., with SFL Zhejiang Inc. as the registered owner and Golden Ocean Group Ltd. as the disponent owner. The bulk carrier holds an International Safety Management (ISM) certification from DNV, valid for interim documents, and is classified by the American Bureau of Shipping.
The incident highlights potential risks during safety checks on ships and the importance of stringent procedures to prevent accidental releases. According to TSB, it is not within their mandate to assign fault or determine civil or criminal liability. The board's investigation focuses on advancing transportation safety through identifying and addressing safety deficiencies.
Technical Details
The Golden Zhejiang was equipped with the necessary navigational and life-saving appliances required under the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS). The vessel is powered by a 16 MW diesel engine, providing robust propulsion capabilities. No pollution was reported as a result of this incident.
This event underscores the critical need for meticulous safety procedures during routine maintenance and checks on marine vessels to prevent such accidental releases from lifeboats that can lead to serious crew injuries. Safety boards like TSB continue to emphasize the importance of thorough training and clear protocols in the maritime industry to mitigate risks and enhance overall safety standards.