Independent investigation into the fatality on board the Hong Kong registered chemical tanker Bow De Jin, at sea, on 24 November 2009

Abstract

On 24 November 2009, the chief mate on board the Hong Kong registered chemical tanker Bow De Jin died after entering a cargo tank which contained hydrocarbon vapours and was deficient in oxygen.

The ATSB investigation was unable to determine why the chief mate, who had sailed on tankers for most of his seagoing career, did not follow industry standard and specific company safety procedures before he entered the cargo tank.

The investigation found that while enclosed space entry checklists were being filled out by the crew members on board the ship, the checklist system was not being used as a proactive means to ensure that the necessary safety requirements were being met prior to tank entries.

As a result of this incident and the ATSB investigation, Bow De Jin's managers have taken action to improve the ship's enclosed space entry checklist system.