Tragic Death of Unqualified Engineer Aboard U.S.-Flagged Vessel

An unqualified engineer lost their life aboard the U.S.-flagged offshore supply vessel Red Stag due to electrocution while attempting to troubleshoot a mud pump system in Port Fourchon, Louisiana.

The incident, which occurred on October 14, 2023, highlighted critical safety deficiencies and the importance of proper qualifications and adherence to safety protocols in maritime operations.

Sequence of Events

The engineer’s fatal accident began with a routine watch handover where the outgoing first engineer informed the unqualified engineer about the vessel’s mud pump system. Despite completing Job Safety Analyses (JSAs), a material failure in the mud pump system led to the engineer accessing energized electrical equipment, resulting in their tragic death.

Investigation Findings

The U.S. Coast Guard investigation identified multiple contributing factors to the casualty, including the engineer’s lack of qualifications, failure to follow procedures, and critical safety deficiencies such as missing locking devices on the high-voltage panel.

Response and Safety Measures

In response to the incident, the vessel’s owner, Adriatic Marine LLC, implemented a fleet-wide Safety Stand-down to emphasize communication, adherence to safety policies, and training. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of proper qualification and safety protocols in maritime operations.

Conclusion

The investigation concluded without finding evidence of criminal acts or violations but underscores the need for rigorous training and adherence to safety procedures, especially when dealing with high-voltage electrical systems in maritime settings.