A vessel at a repair berth was on shore power. The heavy electrical cable was led parallel to the shore gangway that was hooked on to the ship’s side bulwark on the main deck. During the night, due to the ship’s small surges alongside and tidal movements, the power cable slid into a small gap between the ladder and the ship’s gunwale. At a certain stage of the rising tide, the cable got severely pinched under the now steep ladder with sufficient force to cause the breakdown of the internal insulation, causing a fiery short-circuit. Fortunately, the breakers on the shore distribution box tripped automatically and there was no fire or injury.
Ship shore connection guidance
Power cables must be carefully routed, away from accesses and other obstructions, and secured against movement.
The gangway watch of a ship under repair must include continuous monitoring of power cables, besides moorings and shore fire mains, as applicable
