The Alpena Incident: Faulty Wiring and a $4 Million Blaze on the Great Lakes

A recent investigation into the fire aboard the Great Lakes bulk carrier Alpena has shed light on the events that transpired on December 11, 2015, while the vessel was undergoing a scheduled five-year inspection at Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin. According to a report from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the blaze, which caused an estimated $4 million in damages, was likely ignited by faulty electrical wiring in the aft of the ship.

The fire broke out around 5:40 p.m. in the electrical control room for the aft winches, located three decks down and just above the engine room. Firefighters received an emergency call shortly after 6 p.m. and reported heavy smoke emanating from the stern of the vessel. A total of 85 firefighters from nine different fire departments across Door County were deployed, utilizing aerial trucks to discharge water onto the flaming vessel. Thankfully, the fire was contained and did not extend into the cargo holds, but it inflicted severe damage on critical areas, including the cafeteria, staterooms, and the electrical control area, steering gear room, and storage spaces near the stern.

Despite the successful evacuation of workers and the extinguishing of the fire, four individuals—two firefighters and two shipyard workers—were hospitalized due to smoke inhalation, although all were released shortly thereafter. Reports indicated that many other firefighters suffered from dehydration due to the demanding conditions of the response effort.

Following the incident, investigators from the U.S. Coast Guard and local fire departments focused on determining the fire's origin. The NTSB concluded that the electrical wiring providing power to the aft anchor winch was insufficiently protected, lacking the circuit safeguards common in newer vessels, thus rendering it the probable source of ignition. The fire was later deemed non-intentional.

In the aftermath, the owners, Andrie Inc., alongside their insurance company, are faced with the decision to undertake repairs on the Alpena. Repairs have already begun, with modifications including enhanced circuit protection to bolster safety standards. After undergoing significant repairs, the ship has resumed its operations across the Great Lakes, primarily transporting cement.

As the industry takes heed of the lessons learned from this incident, it highlights a pressing need for ongoing investments in safety standards and infrastructure to prevent similar occurrences in the future.