Transport Malta has issued its investigation report into the serious injuries on board the Maltese registered containers ship SCA Munksund in which the Chief Engineer was hit by flying debris following the disintegration of the flexible coupling between the power take-off from the main engine gearbox and the input to the shaft generator.The chief engineer was seriously injured, sustaining amputation of his right hand from below the middle of his forearm. He also suffered other injuries to his face.
The vessel sought medical assistance from the Swedish Rescue Centre and the injured crew member was lifted ashore by helicopter.
The Marine Safety Investigation Unit (MSIU) found that immediately prior to the accident, the flexible coupling between the main engine gearbox power take-off and the shaft generator had been incorrectly disassembled (split), following failure of the shaft generator
Moreover, the safety investigation revealed that the context in which the chief engineer and his sub-ordinates were operating, was intricate enough that possible options were actually either not observed or else not deemed feasible to be considered.
Four recommendations have been issued to the company to ensure that risks associated with the dismantling of similar couplings are better understood.
Find out more by reading the investigation report herebelow
