Working Conditions Aboard the K.lotus

On February 6, 2023, a significant incident occurred at the APM Terminals on Maasvlakte 2 in Rotterdam when seven containers fell from the 'Bangkok Express' container ship onto the bunkering vessel 'K. Lotus'. Fortunately, a spokesperson for the Port Authority confirmed on February 9 that no hazardous substances were released during this mishap. The Dutch Safety Board, alongside the Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate (ILT), is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the container fallout. In addition to the seven containers that landed on the 'K. Lotus', two more containers plunged into the water but have since been successfully recovered. While the exact reasons for the containers' fall remain unclear, the Port of Rotterdam Authority has announced that a thorough investigation will take place. The incident occurred during a routine operation known as 'simultaneous operations' (simops), where ships are bunkered simultaneously with other activities, such as unloading containers. The 'K. Lotus' sustained damage to its defense system due to the impact caused by the falling cargo and remained anchored at Prinses Amalia Port until February 15. It then proceeded to the coordinates 52° 01' N 003° 32' E before returning to Rotterdam on February 22. This incident highlights the importance of safety measures in busy port operations and the ongoing efforts to ensure maritime safety.

Significant damage has been reported following an incident involving the 'K. Lotus' at the APM 2 container terminal located on Maasvlakte 2. The accident occurred during the loading operations of the 'Bangkok Express' when a remotely operated crane inadvertently struck the upper tier of a ten-high stack of containers. This collision triggered a domino effect, resulting in the fall of nine containers. While two of these containers fell into the water, they have since been retrieved successfully. However, seven others landed on the aft deck of the LNG bunker vessel, leading to considerable damage. The full scope of the damage is still being assessed, but fortunately, no LNG was released during the incident. Following the mishap, inspection services were promptly alerted, with the Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate (ILT) actively involved in the response efforts. Additionally, representatives from the Dutch Safety Board (OVV) conducted a site visit on February 7 to assess the situation. A decision on whether a formal investigation will be launched by the OVV is expected within the week. Meanwhile, the 'Bangkok Express' has received clearance from port authorities to depart, while the 'K. Lotus', which sustained damage to its mooring system, remains docked in Rotterdam. For further details and photographs, visit the full report at Rijnmond.

On January 7, representatives from the Dutch Safety Board, along with two investigators, visited the scene involving the 'K Lotus', which was docked beside the 'Bangkok Express' in the Port of Rotterdam. While officials have yet to disclose any details regarding potential damage to the LNG-carrying bunker tanker, it has been confirmed that three containers were lost overboard during the incident. In response, patrol vessels operated by the Port of Rotterdam Authority, Seaport Police, and Rijkswaterstaat (the Directorate-General for Public Works and Water Management) swiftly addressed the situation. The 'Bangkok Express' departed from Rotterdam on February 8, heading for Salalah, with an estimated arrival date of March 10.