Bulker losses improved

According to Intercargo, in 1997 five bulk carriers were actual total losses and two constructive total losses – only one was attributable to structural failure. These figures show a considerable improvement on 1990/91 when there were over 20 sinkings per year with seven and eight vessels lost respectively due to taking water and plate failure.

Over the eight year period a total of 637 seafarers were killed or missing on bulk carriers which either sank or were constructive total losses. Taking water and plate failure remains the reason for most lives lost (227) with disappearances at 150 being the next largest cause of fatalities.

In reviewing the figures, Intercargo adds that they have to be set against a background of 5,500 bulkers sailing worldwide and concluded that there had been improvements but there was no room for complacency. Already this year eight vessels lost (excluding

Asean Carrier

) with three concern high for over three.

A further 10 lives are feared lost following the capsize of the 1996-built 21,297 dwt bulk carrier

Sea Prospect

off Japan. It is thought that the load of nickel ore may have shifted.

The Canadian authorities have carried out an underwater survey of the bow sections of

Flare

and says it “may send out safety action points to flag states.”