Invisible threat: confined space incident shocks Alaska

A serious confined space accident aboard the freight barge Waynehoe in southeast Alaska has left two crewmembers dead and two others hospitalized, The Maritime Telegraph reports. The incident took place on 15 March, about 25 miles northwest of Ketchikan, during routine port operations.

 

According to the U.S. Coast Guard, four crewmembers entered an enclosed space while the barge lay moored near Skowl Arm. Crew aboard the tug Chukchi Sea later lost contact with them and issued a mayday call, triggering an emergency response.

 

Before rescuers arrived, the crew recovered one victim and pulled two survivors from the space. The second victim was found later after the barge returned to port. The injured crewmembers remain in stable condition in hospital.

 

Preliminary reports suggest methane gas may have been present inside the confined space, though investigators have not yet confirmed the exact cause. The U.S. Coast Guard has launched an investigation. Officials will review onboard safety procedures, risk assessments, and compliance with confined space entry rules.

 

The accident highlights a persistent safety issue in the maritime industry. Despite stricter IMO regulations, enclosed-space incidents still occur frequently. Industry data points to common risks such as oxygen depletion, toxic gases, and failures in safety procedures – showing that gaps between regulations and real-life practices remain a serious concern.

 

Picture: UK P&I Club