A tragic incident at Thoothukudi port saw three workers lose their lives due to suspected asphyxiation inside a ballast tank of a barge. Investigations by shipping officials reveal that the tank had a significant crack, which the workers were attempting to repair by pumping out the water.
The crack was located in the forward (front) section of the vessel. The crew from the towing tug had set up a diesel-powered pump, opened a manhole on the ballast tank, and were discharging water into the sea. Investigators also raised concerns about the overall structural integrity of the tanks, noting that the aft (rear) ballast tank was also found filled with water, likely originating from the damaged forward tank.
Standard operating procedures for both merchant vessels and barges strictly forbid entry into such tanks without a formal “Enclosed Space Entry” permit. This permit is issued by a responsible officer only after confirming proper ventilation and safe levels of oxygen and other gases within the tank. The initial plan for the Thoothukudi barge was to empty the cracked tank before proceeding with repairs.
It appears that the workers encountered difficulty in emptying the forward tank. Investigators hypothesize that the stagnant water within the tank may have caused severe oxygen depletion and potentially the buildup of toxic gases. The workers are believed to have entered the tank to assess the situation, leading to the fatal outcome.
This incident tragically highlights a recurring danger in the maritime industry. Globally, countless seafarers and port workers suffer severe injuries or fatalities while entering what are known as “enclosed” or “void” spaces on vessels. Despite stringent regulations requiring these spaces to be thoroughly ventilated and certified as safe (free from oxygen deficiency or toxic gases) by a designated official before entry, workers sometimes enter without proper protection or breathing apparatus, with devastating consequences. This often stems from a lack of diligent adherence to safety protocols by vessel personnel.
The ill-fated barge was typically employed for transporting stones and other construction materials from Thoothukudi.