Maersk-Rio-Delta Vessel Reviews and Specifications

In light of a serious injury sustained by a crew member aboard the Singapore-flagged container ship 'Rio De La Plata,' maritime safety investigators are calling for a comprehensive reassessment of safety protocols on ships registered under the Singapore flag. The incident occurred in November 2020, as the vessel was preparing to depart from the Port of Timaru. During the unmooring process, one of the crew members became ensnared in a mooring rope, resulting in severe injuries to their hand and face after being pulled into the mooring winch. The Transport Accident Investigation Commission (TAIC) conducted a thorough review, revealing significant lapses in adhering to the ship's safety systems. The investigation highlighted inadequate installation of equipment and subpar operational planning. Notably, the ship's safety plan recognized mooring operations as a critical risk area, recommending a minimum of four crew members to operate two winches. However, during the incident, the forward mooring party was staffed by only three crew members, compromising safety protocols. Compounding the issue, the supervisor was operating the winch simultaneously while the crew members managed the ropes. Each rope handler was tasked with signaling to the supervisor with one hand while manipulating the rope with the other, leading to a precarious situation. The investigation suggested that a shift in the unmooring plan—such as using only one winch at a time—could have allowed one crew member to focus solely on managing the rope while ensuring safe communication with the winch operator. TAIC emphasized the inherent dangers associated with unmooring, stating, "Unmooring operations are just as dangerous as mooring operations and crew must ensure that there are always sufficient personnel available to carry out the operation safely." They further noted the importance of adhering to manufacturers' installation and operation guidelines, as deviations can significantly elevate the risk of injury. In response to these findings, the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore has initiated a preliminary inquiry to evaluate and enhance its auditing processes. Last month, the commission suggested this review to identify any weaknesses in safety management systems aboard Singapore-flagged vessels. The authority has confirmed its satisfaction with the corrective actions taken by the company involved, and plans to disseminate information about the incident through an upcoming e-bulletin aimed at raising awareness within the maritime sector regarding the hazards linked to mooring operations. Additionally, they are collaborating with the flag state control department to improve oversight of mooring practices among Singapore-flagged ships.

On August 9, 2021, a significant health alert emerged as 11 of the 21 crew members aboard the 'Rio de la Plata' tested positive for Covid-19 while docked at the Port of Tauranga. This incident prompted immediate action from the local health authorities, who subsequently tested 94 port workers, including 67 members of the Rail and Maritime Transport Union. The initial positive cases were identified after the vessel arrived at the port on August 4. The ship's crew was reported to have come into contact with an Australian pilot in Queensland who later tested positive for the Delta variant, raising concerns about potential active cases among the crew. On the evening of August 7, port workers received notifications to report for testing at 9 AM. By 11:30 AM on August 9, results for 91 Tauranga port workers had been collected, with the outcomes anticipated later that same day to ascertain if the crew's cases were historical or active. Health officials had initially responded on August 3, when the pilot's symptoms prompted the halting of work and a temporary isolation directive for local pilots and stevedores. However, by the next morning, authorities permitted operations to resume on the 'Rio de la Plata,' indicating a cautious but necessary approach to the unfolding situation. As the ship remained anchored in position 37° 37.69' S, 176° 20.50' E on August 9, further testing was mandated for the crew before the vessel could continue to its next port of call, Napier. With one crew test result still pending, vigilance and precaution remain key as maritime health officials work to manage this outbreak effectively.

An unfortunate incident occurred involving the crew of the 'Rio de la Plata' on November 14, 2020, in Timaru. During the unmooring procedures as the vessel was set to depart for Lyttelton, a crew member sustained serious injuries, prompting immediate medical attention. Following the incident, the injured individual was transported to a hospital for necessary treatment. In response, Maritime New Zealand launched a thorough investigation, which includes interviewing those involved, examining the incident scene, and reviewing relevant documentation. Additionally, the Transport Accident Investigation Commission has initiated its own inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the event.