Recently, while under tow by the towing vessel Island Chief, an unmanned barge crashed into a private waterfront home and several privately-owned docks in Gig Harbor, Washington. At the time of the incident, the barge was not carrying any cargo, and it was pulled free by the tug without any injuries, pollution or significant vessel damage.

Unfortunately, however, the damages to the affected property are estimated to be over $250,000 and the Investigating Officer has determined this to be a Serious Marine Incident. According to gCaptain's Barge Crashes Into Home in Washington article:

“The Coast Guard reports that initial findings indicate that the Island Chief’s [captain] fell asleep while navigating the vessel.”

What Can Be Done?
Professional mariners are exposed to a number of stressors that often lead to fatigue due to their demanding work environment. In addition, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mariners' work schedules has greatly contributed to increased levels of stress and fatigue. This is especially troublesome when you consider that the consequences of fatigue have been known to put lives, company assets, the environment, as well as mariners’ USCG licenses and careers, at risk.

For tips to help manage the effects of fatigue and stress, check out Pandemic Stress Weighs on Mariners and Fatigue Takes The Wheel Again…And Again.

Since 1935, MOPS has protected the licenses and livelihoods of more than 80,000 deck and engineering officers, state and federal pilots and certified tankermen.  

We cover USCG licensed officers operating aboard vessels of any size in every sector of the maritime industry.  If you want a quote, give us a ring at 800-782-8902, ext. 3608 or 3302.  Or fill out our online form and we'll email you a quote.