Accidents resulting from loss of bridge control on ships can be extremely dangerous. This report examines four significant incidents in this area that highlight the dangers arising from human errors and failure to adhere to protocols.
Accident While Docking
In the first incident, a fishing vessel with a controllable propeller experienced an accident while anchoring alongside other ships. In this incident, control of the engine was transferred from the bridge to the engine room, and after repairs, the control lever was in the maximum position. As soon as control was transferred back to the bridge, the ship moved forward, broke its anchors, and collided with another vessel, resulting in serious damage and pollution. Investigations revealed that there was no documented procedure for changing control.
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Unintentional Transfer of Steering Control
In another incident, a military ship collided with a commercial vessel while passing, resulting in several deaths and serious injuries. In this incident, control of the propeller and steering was transferred to an adjacent control station, but during this process, the steering control was also unintentionally transferred. This mistake led to the ship veering towards the commercial vessel, and the collision occurred just four minutes after the control transfer.
Change of Steering Settings in Crowded Waters
In a similar accident, a ship passing another vessel was investigating a water leak in the steering gear room. The captain was away from the bridge and had asked the officer on the bridge to turn off one of the two gear motors. This change was made while the ship was moving at a speed of 10 knots, resulting in loss of control and collision with another ship.
Improper Control with Joystick
In another incident, a ship during maneuvering in the port collided with two unmanned vessels, sinking them. The ship's steering system included two symmetrical shilling radars. This incident occurred while the ship was gently turning, and the joystick control was not functioning properly.
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