India issues investigation report on safety lapses aboard M.T. Patriot

The Directorate General of Shipping, India has released its investigation report on the incident aboard M.T. Patriot, an Indian-flagged oil tanker. The report highlights various lapses in safety protocols, operational procedures, and management oversight, leading to significant damage and casualties.

Incident Overview

The vessel was adequately manned, held all statutory certificates, and encountered moderate weather during the incident. However, several operational shortcomings were noted:

Non-Adherence to Gas-Freeing Standards

1. Gas-freeing procedures deviated from ISGOTT guidelines due to the non-operational inert gas (IG) system caused by a boiler issue.
2. Cargo tanks were gas-freed using fresh air, reducing HC levels to below 1% LEL, but without meeting the safer benchmark of 10% LEL.

Tank Cleaning and Gas Pockets

1. Slop tank cleaning was conducted with sea water in an open cycle, discharging residues ashore. Recommended use of hot water and thorough residue removal was not adhered to.
2. Inadequate cleaning led to the formation of gas pockets, further exacerbated by incomplete isolation of IG lines.

Insufficient Risk Assessment and Oversight

1. Risk assessment and hot work permits lacked specificity and were not approved by the company.
2. The port authority issued hot work permits without verifying conditions or addressing specific risks.

Lack of Coordination and Reporting

1. Repairs were not reported to the vessel’s Classification Society