Vessel/Platform Collision – Mooring Bollard Broken by Vessel

What happened?

A platform supply vessel (PSV) approached a platform to deliver the cargo via snatch lift. After starting cargo operations, it appeared that the crane did not have enough boom reach, so the vessel was taken closer to the platform (at around 1 m distance). There were 2m waves at the time.

The vessel’s stern collided with the platform mooring bollard which was damaged. No one was injured. This damage was allegedly not noticed at the time by the crew, and was identified and reported by the client at a later stage.

What went wrong? What were the causes?

Our member notes that this incident happened recently and is under investigation. Detailed information and additional lessons learned, if any, will be communicated at a later date. Our members’ initial findings were as follows:

• Given the unfavourable operational conditions, there was excessive exposure to risk, possibly driven by inadequate planning. The operation should have stopped when conditions were found unsafe;
• Concerns had been raised previously, relating to the absence of fenders and mooring buoys around the platform, and regarding the limited reach of the crane. These had not been addressed. Vessel management should keep their fleet management informed of operational hazards and enable corrective actions with clients and other 3rd parties, as needed.

What actions were taken? What lessons were learned?

Ensure that there is properly documented and agreed guidance available on methods of safely approaching platforms, on escape routes and on go/no-go zones, particularly when new locations are involved.

Members may wish to refer to the following incidents:

• Vessel activities near platforms – two incidents
• Property damage: platform supply vessel collided with legs of jack-up rig