SS OGDEN WILLAMETTE: Major Engine Room Flooding in the Caribbean Sea, Off of the Southeast Coast of Jamaica, on 16 June 1982, with Personnel Injury
Abstract
At or about on 16 June 1982, the SS OGDEN WILLAMETTE, on a loaded voyage, suffered major engine room flooding approximately 47 miles southeast of Morant Point, Jamaica in the Caribbean Sea. With the vessel sinking and the possibility of a boiler explosion, the master ordered abandon ship. Within an hour the entire crew was rescued by the Chilean freighter COPIAPO. At daylight on 16 June 1982, the OGDEN WILLIAMETTE remained afloat with her stern awash. It was towed to an anchorage 1/2 mile off of the southwestern tip of Little Cayman Island. There, the engine room was dewatered and the cargo was lightered to the tankship ESSO ZURICH (Panama). Finally it was towed to New Orleans, LA where repairs were made. This report contains the U.S. Coast Guard Marine Board of Investigation Report and the Action taken by the Commandant to determine the proximate cause of the casualty and the recommendations to prevent recurrence. The Commandant has concurred with the Marine Board that the proximate cause of the casualty was that the low sea suction non-metallic expansion joint failed. The Coast Guard is preparing specific guidance regarding the inspection of expansion joints.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 16, 1982
- Accession Number
- ADA140941
Entities
Organizations
- United States Coast Guard