Important points during a ship collision

Ship collisions continue to happen even as communication systems and navigational equipment develop. Incompetence, miscommunication and negligence are the main reasons for ship collisions in New York and other ports. Ship collisions don’t only leave damage, there are pollution consequences and lives at risk. There are some points to consider during the vulnerability of a ship collision.

Inform the master and send a distress signal

The first task to do during a maritime accident is to inform the master of the ship. The engine room needs to know the situation as well. The ship’s master has the experience and authority to make quick decisions. The GPS mob button can mark the location of the ship collision. The crew should send a distress signal immediately through the correct channels.

Record important data and sound the alarms

Don’t waste time arguing with the other ship about the collision. The crew needs the time of the ship collision and the information about the other vessel. Crew members can find a secure location and take pictures of the ship collision. During a maritime law collision, the crew should sound the emergency alarms. The crew should muster to make sure no one’s missing. A designated crew member should search for any missing people as the officers prepare the engine room for the aftermath.

Assess the damage and take the soundings

Have an officer investigate the damage from the maritime collision. Take extra precautions if the damage is in an enclosed space. Crew members should check the freshwater tanks, ballast tanks and wing tanks. The engine room should take soundings of all tanks in the room. Tanks far from the collision can crack from the impact.

Take action against damage or oil spills

When a cracked tank has an ingress of water, the crew should immediately pump the water from the room. If the pumps fail, seal the room to prevent the spread of flooding. One of the most dangerous tanks is fuel or oil tanks. There are SOPEP procedures that all ships must follow to prevent oil spills.

Reach port or abandon ship

The master should consider the effects of shear force and bending movements on the ship’s hull. A ship that moves without danger may get to the nearest port for repairs. A ship that’s dangerous to move has limited time. The master should make a verbal announcement.

The ship’s crew prepares for emergencies with strict regulations, qualifications and training. During a ship collision, crew members can panic and forget their duties. Drills help people understand the operating procedures and life-saving equipment. Crews should go over emergency procedures, location of life-saving equipment and escape routes before leaving port.