Component failure caused $1.1M BBC Africa collision
Steering Failure Causes Collision in Houston Ship Channel
A recent incident involving the multi-purpose carrier BBC Africa has raised concerns about maritime safety after a steering control system failure led to a collision with the bulk carrier Common Faith in the Houston Ship Channel. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) reported that the collision occurred on August 25, 2023, as the BBC Africa was departing the channel. Fortunately, there were no injuries or pollution reported, but the damage to both vessels is estimated at $1.1 million.
Details of the Incident
The BBC Africa, a 390-foot-long vessel registered under the flag of Antigua and Barbuda, was built in 2005 and is owned by Winter MPP GmbH Co. The Common Faith, a larger 623-foot-long bulk carrier flagged in Greece, was built in 2012 and is owned by Poseidon Navigation SA, operated by Common Progress Compania Naviera S.A. According to the crew of the BBC Africa, there were no issues detected with the steering control systems during pre-departure checks. However, as the vessel departed, the steering was functioning correctly from the port bridge wing.
When the crew attempted to transfer steering control to the center helm, the rudder unexpectedly swung hard to port, contrary to the pilot’s commands. Despite several attempts by the chief officer to regain control, it took approximately one minute for the master to use the emergency override function to regain rudder control. Unfortunately, this was too late to prevent the collision with the moored Common Faith.
Investigators noted that the crew’s delayed response in implementing emergency steering procedures contributed to the accident. Following the collision, technicians and investigators conducted thorough inspections of the steering control systems, identifying a likely failure of the bridge wing tiller micro switch as the cause of the steering control failure.
Safety Recommendations and Actions Taken
The NTSB report emphasized the critical nature of immediate crew response to steering control failures, particularly in confined channels where hazards are present. It highlighted the importance of training in steering recovery procedures and conducting scenario-based drills for bridge and engine teams to ensure quick and effective responses in emergencies.
In response to the incident, the operator of the BBC Africa replaced three components that could have contributed to the steering failure: the port bridge wing tiller, the power supply transformer in the control cabinet, and the push button relays for control requests. Additionally, the steering gear manufacturer issued a safety bulletin addressing micro switch failures in bridge wing tillers, warning that such failures could lead to unintended rudder movements.
The NTSB’s findings serve as a reminder of the potential dangers associated with steering control system failures and the need for rigorous training and preparedness among maritime crews.
