Carriage, Handling and Storage of Dangerous Goods along

VESSELS 65
important cause was "main engine failure" (followed by "deck spills" and "miscellaneous machinery
failure"). This highlights the importance of encouraging an internal review of the main engine control
system (remote and emergency) operations as well as inspections and maintenance procedures to
minimise such failures. In case of main engine failure, only the rapid restoration of propulsion control
will ensure the safety of the vessel, crew and the environment.
Main engine control failure can be prevented by improved inspection regimes, reduced maintenance
intervals and increased management focus on maintenance. The use of emergency control systems
for quick restoration of propulsion capability can mitigate the risk of remote-control failure. Emergency
manoeuvring should be provided to sustain or restore normal operation of propulsion machinery in the
event of remote-control failure. As failure of other machinery is the third important cause of incidents,
efficient and regular maintenance is very important.
References
• Classification Society; and
• Legislation 2006/137/EC: Directive of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18
December 2006 amending Directive 2006/87/EC laying down technical requirements for
inland waterway vessels.
ACTIONS
Technical and Management
There are different types of maintenance procedures. An efficient system, however, is a Preventive or
Scheduled Maintenance System, where maintenance is carried out as per running hours or by calendar
intervals irrespective of the condition of the machinery. Parts have to be replaced if noted in the
schedule, even if they can still be used. Also, daily controls have to be carried out to ensure the good
working of the engines and to prevent leaks. This includes the main engine and all other machinery
onboard such as steering gear and generators.
An emergency control system for quick restoration of propulsion capability should be in place and
used to mitigate the risks associated with main engine failure.
Maintenance planning procedures (and recording) should be in place.
Daily checks and routine maintenance should be carried out by using a control checklist.
Contingency plans and actions that address the failure of the remote engine control system and an
emergency action plan for steering in case of steering gear failure should be in place with training.
Institutional and Capacity Building
Authorities should provide theoretical and practical education for crewmembers assigned as
engineers onboard. After an examination, a certificate to prove competence should be issued.
Existing tanker barges should have their propulsion equipment, including propeller and rudder,
checked and certified by an independent company at regular intervals to ensure reliability and proper
maintenance by the ship’s crew and owner. Execution of this task on behalf of authorities can be
done by classification societies with specific and intermediate surveys at regular and fixed intervals.
Propulsion equipment should be designed for the specific operation, the size and trade of the barge.
Technical standards should be put in place by authorities and controlled by classification societies for
new buildings.
Personnel should be trained for effective maintenance, making sure engines, instruments and systems
work safely and efficiently. Detailed technical knowledge of naval construction and mechanical,
electrical and electronic engineering systems is needed.