Capsize and sinking of mussel dredger Orion
Location: Carlingford Lough, Northern Ireland.
Completed PE Summary: Orion
A short summary of the accident and action taken:
| Fishing Vessel/Accident Details | |
|---|---|
| Vessel Name | Orion |
| Registered Owner and Manager | East Coast Mussels Ltd |
| Port of Registry | Newry |
| Flag | UK |
| Type | Mussel Dredger |
| Built | 1908 |
| Construction | Steel |
| Gross Tonnage: | 46.00 |
| Date/Time | 02/07/05, 0140 |
| Location of Incident | Coastal Waters |
| Incident Type | Capsize |
| Persons Onboard | 3 crew |
| Injuries/Fatalities | None |
| Damage/ Pollution | Constructive Total Loss |
Synopsis
皇冠体育app mussel dredger Orion capsized in Carlingford Lough, County Down while seeding immature mussels on a commercial mussel bed. 皇冠体育app crew of three escaped unhurt. 皇冠体育app cargo was unusual in that it contained about 60% gravel and stones and exceeded the loading limits set out in the stability book. 皇冠体育app vessel was salvaged and the examination determined that the probable cause of the capsize was due to a blockage in the seeding hatch coupled and free surface water in the hold double bottom coupled with a shift in the cargo
Action taken
皇冠体育app Chief Inspector of Marine Accidents has written to the vessel鈥檚 owner recommending:
-
That he ensures that the stability book is retained onboard and that the skippers are fully aware of the load limitations.
-
That any alterations in the amount or disposition of the vessel鈥檚 weight are reported to the Maritime Coastguard Agency so that the need for re-assessment of the vessels stability can be determined.
-
That a risk assessment be conducted of the vessel鈥檚 operations and crew procedures in accordance with Marine Guidance Note 20 (M+F).