Dear colleagues,
On May 11, 2024 at around 11 p.m. we received a call from the captain of the MV Nicola L, who informed us that he had just collided with his ship in the Liverpool lock so hard against the lock wall that a bridge window shattered and the hull on starboard side was slightly dented at the bow and aft.
What happened?
When entering the lock, a fore and aft line were put on shore. When the ship was completely in the lock, the lock operator closed the gate and flooded the lock so quickly that the MV Nicola L, which had not yet completely moored at the lock pier, was pressed so hard against the lock wall that the aforementioned damage to the bridge window and hull occurred.
The DPA then informed the class, the flag state and the insurance company.
The DNV carried out a comprehensive damage inspection and requested a temporary repair of the defective bridge window. The final repair must be made within the next 3 months.
The minor damage to the ship's hull was not class relevant.
A PSC inspection did not take place and the ship was able to leave the port of Liverpool after DNV approved the temporary repair of the defective bridge window.
What caused this incident?
In our opinion, the communication between the pilot and the lock keeper was not optimal or did not take place at all.
How could the incident have been prevented?
If the captain had asked the pilot to inform the lock operator not to start floating until the ship was safely moored at the lock pier, the damage to the ship would not have occurred.
What do we learn from this abuse?
Transparent and professional communication between ship and shore can significantly minimize or even prevent the possibility of damage to the ship!
Our preventive measure:
Discuss with pilots and port facilities all intended maneuvers well in advance.
Please discuss this incident at your next onboard safety meeting.
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