The oiler’s actions indicate that he was not aware of the dangers associated with the use of an angle grinder to remove the top of the drum.
The action taken by the management includes reviewing the use drums in engine room, prohibiting the use of angle grinder on drums which are not cleaned or ventilated.
The ATSB has been advised by NSC Schifffahrtsgesellschaft that instructions for hot work have been reviewed and precaution measures against possible fire and explosion of empty drums has been added. It is now strictly forbidden to use an angle grinder while working with empty and potentially dangerous used drums unless properly cleaned and well ventilated.
All crew members have been informed about the prohibition.
The ATSB is satisfied that the action taken by NSC Schifffahrtsgesellschaft adequately addresses the safety issue.
