MARIA LEONTINA - Very Serious Maritima Casualty
Vessel: MARIA LEONTINA
GAMA reference: 2021-167
Data da ocorrência acidental: 23-08-2021
Published on: 20-06-2022
Casualty Event: Deviation due to electrical problems, explosion, fire - Electrical problem - leading to direct contact
Summary
On 23 August 2021, the Chief Engineer aboard MARIA LEONTINA collapsed with convulsions in the mess room. An assisting crew member experienced electric shocks before the circuit breaker supplying the area tripped. Seawater had entered through an open window above two low-mounted electrical sockets. The crew provided basic life support and the vessel returned to Ponta Delgada, where the casualty was transferred to hospital. The casualty died on 25 August 2021. The absence of a post-mortem report prevented the investigation from confirming the cause of death.
Safety recommendations
Lessons learned
Electrical equipment in spaces exposed to seawater should be positioned and protected against water contact. Openings above sockets and appliances should be secured whenever water ingress is possible. Electrical shocks and tripped protective devices require immediate circuit isolation and technical inspection.