Investigation Report
Failure of towline pennant on tug Svitzer Mercurius with minor injuries to 5 crew
Failure of towline pennant on tug Svitzer Mercurius with minor injuries to 5 crew
- MAIB
- Investigation Report
- Line of FireMarine Operations
- Line of fireMaterial fatigueMechanical failure
- Inspection and maintenanceTowing
- Winch
- Competence and trainingPre-use checksPreventive maintenanceRisk assessment
- Marine industry
- Vessel
Summary
Investigation of a towline pennant failure aboard Svitzer Mercurius in Southampton, where recoil shattered a wheelhouse window and glass injured five crew. The report examines hidden synthetic-rope damage, winch brake slippage, inspection and fleet-induction shortcomings, and considers laminated glazing and risk assessment for wheelhouse impact protection.
Classifications: Line of fire; struck-by hazards.
Classifications: Material fatigue; metal fatigue.
Classifications: Mechanical failure; equipment failure.
Classifications: Inspection and maintenance; asset inspection; equipment maintenance.
Classifications: Towing; towage.
Classifications: Winch; winches.
Classifications: Competence and training; competency assurance; safety training.
Classifications: Pre-use checks; pre-use inspection.
Classifications: Preventive maintenance; preventative maintenance; planned maintenance.
Classifications: Risk assessment; hazard assessment.
Classifications: Marine industry; shipping industry; maritime sector.
Classifications: Vessel; aboard ship; onboard vessel.
Themes: line of fire, marine operations.