Crew Reviews, Ratings & Info for Arktida

On November 17, legal authorities took significant steps in the investigation surrounding the tragic explosion involving the tanker 'General Hazi Aslanov' in the Sea of Azov. Charges have been formally filed against the Chief Mate under Part 3 of Article 219 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation, which addresses violations of fire safety regulations resulting in fatalities. According to the investigation, a severe breach of safety protocols occurred on board the vessel. Under the supervision of the Chief Mate, crew members including a boatswain, a sailor, and a trainee were engaged in the hazardous task of cleaning cargo tanks that had contained 'naphtha,' a byproduct of oil refining. Disturbingly, during this operation, proper safety measures were neglected. Specifically, no ongoing monitoring of fire safety was maintained, nor was there a comprehensive flow chart to outline the safe washing processes for tanks previously holding flammable materials. Furthermore, it was noted that the Chief Mate failed to ensure gas concentration levels were monitored, permitting an untrained trainee to undertake tank washing operations. This negligence culminated in a catastrophic event on October 24, 2020, when an explosive gas mixture ignited while the tanker was navigating from neutral waters of the Black Sea. Out of the 13 crew members aboard, 10 managed to escape, while three were reported missing. Subsequently, investigation teams located the remains of the deceased crew members. This ongoing case raises critical concerns regarding maritime safety and accountability within the shipping industry.

An official inquiry has commenced following an explosion incident involving a maritime vessel, as the Public Prosecutor and Maritime Authority have initiated an Incident Investigation file. To determine the cause of the explosion and evaluate the damages, a specialized surveyor panel has been appointed. Preliminary assessments show significant structural harm to critical areas, including the main deck, pump connections, related cargo compartments, and the vessel's fundamental structure. As a result, the Russian classification society has suspended the vessel's class status and voyage permissions. Currently, the affected vessel remains docked at the inner port of Krym, with the situation being closely monitored since November 2.

On October 26, the Maritime Rescue Coordination Center (MRCC) Taman announced the suspension of the search for the three missing crew members of the freighter 'General Hazi Aslanov'. After extensive search operations, officials determined that the likelihood of finding the crew alive was minimal. Fortunately, the ten survivors of the incident are reported to be in stable condition. Meanwhile, the wreck of the 'General Hazi Aslanov' has been moved to an anchorage near Kavkaz.