Complex operations at shipyards require better risk management

Risk management of complex operations at the shipyard run by Damen Shiprepair Rotterdam in the Botlek harbour district requires improvement. In particular, a more thorough approach is needed for complex operations that are carried out simultaneously. The shipyard must ensure that risks are clearly understood and managed. To identify risks effectively and in a structured manner, it is crucial to take account of different perspectives, particularly in the case of simultaneous operations. All the parties involved must jointly go through scenarios in advance, identify the risks that may arise, and agree on the options for taking action.

These are the conclusions of the Dutch Safety Board after an investigation into a collision between a crane vessel and a drilling rig in February 2024, in which a shipyard employee was crushed to death.

Erica Bakkum, boardmember: ‘Pilots must prepare themselves well for the safe execution of complex activities such as docking a crane vessel. For example, they must continuously test assumptions among all those involved and speak out about possible risks. The Regional Pilotage Corporation Rotterdam-Rijnmond is responsible for ensuring that pilots indeed prepare in this way.’

One of the Dutch Safety Board’s recommendations is that the shipyard, the Rotterdam-Rijnmond Regional Pilotage Corporation, and the owner of the vessel should consult each other in advance when complex, simultaneous operations are involved. This will result in a comprehensive overview of all the operations at the shipyard and allow them to identify potential risks, discuss various scenarios, and make arrangements for how to communicate with one another.

On 21 February 2024, the crane vessel Saipem 7000 collided with the Noble Regina Allen drilling rig while being docked at the Damen Shiprepair Rotterdam shipyard in the Botlek harbour district. The crane vessel veered off course, due in part to the weather conditions. At the time, a welder was working on scaffolding on the outside of the drilling rig. He was trapped between the vessel and the rig and fell into the water. Despite a number of searches, his body was not recovered until more than three weeks later.