Crew injury in the engine room of RTM Weipa, off Gove, Northern Territory, on 23 June 2025

The ATSB is investigating an incident in which a crewmember was injured in the engine room of the bulk carrier, RTM Weipa, off Gove, Northern Territory, on 23 June 2025.

At about 0900 local time, while the ship was at anchor, the crew were carrying out routine maintenance work on the main engine, when the traversing motor of the overhead gantry crane detached from its mounting and fell near a crewmember, resulting in minor injuries.

The ATSB has commenced the examination and analysis of the initial evidence collected.

To date, the ATSB investigation has included:

• interviewing the vessel's crew and operators
• communications with the crane equipment manufacturer
• a preliminary analysis of the equipment condition
• reviewing the crew and operator's statements
• reviewing the equipment schematics and operation procedures
• reviewing the vessel's operational history and associated shipboard procedures.

The continuing investigation will include further examination and analysis of:

• procedural documentation
• operational documentation
• maintenance records
• equipment design
• related occurrences.

A final report will be published at the conclusion of the investigation. Should a critical safety issue be identified at any time during the investigation, the ATSB will immediately notify the operators of the ship and the port, and other relevant parties so that appropriate and timely safety action can be taken.