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Investigation in allision identified gaps in protocols

An investigation into the ­collision of the two freighters 'Golden Cecilie' and 'Green K-Max 1' in Plumper Sound on March ­30, 2020, identified gaps in one of the vessel’s protocols for adverse weather. Crews aboard the 'Golden Cecilie,' had noticed the freighter was drifting and the anchor was dragging. Unsuccessful attempts were made to drop a port anchor and stop the vessel from drifting towards athe 'Green K-Max 1'- Engineers started the engine in an attempt to move away from the nearby vessel, but the 'Golden Cecilie' continued to drift and allided with the vessel twice, leaving a large hole in the hull of the 'Golden Cecilie'. The anchor chains of both freighters became entangled, and they requested pilots and assist tugs to help untangle them and escort each vessel back to their anchorages. The Transportation Safety Board found that despite having an approved safety management system, there were gaps in the 'Golden Cecilie'’s preparedness for adverse weather. “When vessels are at anchor, crews need to collect weather forecasts from all available sources in a timely manner; be aware of the risk factors that can lead to dragging anchor, in particular excessive freeboard and inadequate ballasting; and ensure that the main engines, anchors, and deck machinery are ready so that corrective action can be taken at the first sign of dragging anchor,” the report concluded. The vessel’s operator, SeaTeam Management Pte Ltd., amended their protocols in response. At the time, the accident prompted calls for better management of anchorages to avoid collisions and the potential for an oil spill.