As the ESM family grows, we have realized a good number of us come from the southernmost tip of India – namely Kerala. Our Chennai office had so far  taken care of them. However, we do feel our new office will expand our effort and endeavour to reach out to those members and their families..

The new premise was officially inaugurated amidst a lot of fanfare and enthusiasm from our sailing staff from the surrounding area and their families who happily participated in the inaugural function together with a “pooja”. The news was widely covered by the media- both local and at national level as they all appreciated our efforts in brining Kerala closer to the international shipping world.

 
ESM New Office inaugurated at Cochin(Kochi) Kerala,India 

A chemical tanker was carrying out tank cleaning operation in number 2 port tank by spraying toluene from the top of the tank cleaning hatch opening into the tank. During cleaning operations a flashback explosion occurred, killing one crew member and injuring another.

Damage was sustained to the hull structure in both no. 1 and 2 port cargo tanks which needed extensive repairs. The vessel was able to proceed under its own power in the light ballast condition to a repair yard.

LESSONS LEARNT:
1)From experience gained reviewing tank cleaning procedures, solvent washing is treated in a generally casual way without the mention of any solvent usage restrictions.
2)Cleaning procedures should be checked thoroughly to establish whether they contain such warnings.
3)The use of solvents that may give rise to an explosive atmosphere should be avoided if at all possible. If spot cleaning demands the use of solvents which may create an explosive atmosphere, the procedure should be specifically addressed, naming the solvent to be used, method of application and appropriate safety precautions. Continuous Mechanical ventilation must be carried out to avoid pockets or zones of explosive atmosphere build up during spot cleaning.

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