The U.K. Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) has determined that a slow-responding CPP System had led to the 93m chemical tanker Key Bora making heavy contact with the western approach jetty at Alexandra Dock, Hull on December 20, 2013.
The vessel’s CPP system had a history of responding slowly to demands for astern pitch, and did not respond in time to the pilot’s order of full astern to prevent the bow striking the quay. The bulbous bow was holed above the waterline, and there was no pollution.
The MAIB investigation identified that:
The port authority, ABP, has taken steps to ensure that astern propulsion is tested and ready for use before departure or arrival from any berth, regardless of the vessel’s size. The vessel’s manager, V.Ships, has been recommended to investigate and rectify the anomaly with the CPP system on Key Bora and to include in its safety management system a requirement for bridge watchkeeping officers to familiarise themselves with the emergency backup control of their CPP system.
Following a recommendation from the chief inspector, BV has requested IACS to include response times in its forthcoming unified requirement for commissioning trials on CPP systems.
Press Release