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Crane Fire at Gloucester City Terminal in New Jersey

by | May 21, 2024 | Maritime Law

There was a crane fire at the Gloucester City Terminal on the Delaware River on May 21, 2024.  At the time, the crane is believed to have been unloaded steel from the cargo ship PACIFIC HARMONY.  According to reports, the fire did not spread to the ship, but was contained in a crane located on land.  It is unclear if any workers were injured as a result of the accident.

Crane fires during cargo operations to unload a ship are rare but can be catastrophic when they occur. One potential cause of such fires is electrical malfunction. Cranes used in maritime operations are equipped with extensive electrical systems that control various functions, including lifting mechanisms, lighting, and communication systems. If these electrical components are not properly maintained, they can develop faults such as short circuits, overheating, or sparking, which can ignite flammable materials nearby. The presence of saltwater and humid conditions further exacerbates the risk of electrical failures, as these elements can corrode wiring and components over time.

Another significant cause of crane fires is hydraulic fluid leaks. Cranes rely heavily on hydraulic systems to perform their lifting and moving tasks. These systems use hydraulic fluid, which is highly flammable under certain conditions. If there are leaks in the hydraulic lines or seals, the fluid can come into contact with hot surfaces, such as the engine or electrical components, and ignite. Regular inspections and maintenance of hydraulic systems are crucial to prevent leaks and ensure that any issues are addressed promptly to mitigate this risk.

Mechanical friction is also a potential fire hazard in crane operations. The moving parts of a crane, including gears, pulleys, and bearings, must be adequately lubricated to function smoothly. If lubrication levels are insufficient or if there is a mechanical failure, these parts can generate excessive friction and heat. This heat can ignite nearby flammable materials, such as grease, oil, or cargo. Ensuring that all moving parts are properly lubricated and maintained can help prevent fires caused by mechanical friction.

Human error and poor safety practices can significantly increase the risk of crane fires during cargo operations. For example, improper handling of flammable materials, such as fuel or solvents, can lead to spills that create fire hazards. Additionally, inadequate training of crane operators and maintenance personnel can result in missed signs of potential fire risks or incorrect responses to small fires or sparks. Implementing comprehensive safety training programs, regular fire drills, and strict adherence to safety protocols are essential to minimize the risk of fires and ensure a swift and effective response if a fire does occur.

There have been a number of recent incidents involving vessels.  A crew member went overboard from the Carnival Cruise ship CARNIVAL VENEZIA on May 10, 2024.  A teenager was killed while water skiing off Key Biscayne, Florida on May 12, 2024.  Two people were injured when their boat ran aground on Lake Sam Rayburn in Texas on May 17, 2024.  There was a deadly accident involving a small boat in Corpus Christi, Texas on May 20, 2024.

Our experienced lawyers handle maritime personal injury and wrongful death litigation of all kinds and the skills needed to represent the families of loved ones who have lost their lives or those who have been seriously injured as a result of a maritime accident. The lawyers of Spagnoletti Law Firm have handled maritime lawsuits throughout the country.

The experienced and aggressive vessel accident attorneys at Spagnoletti Law Firm can help you understand your rights if you or a loved one was a victim of an accident on a ship. There are strict and short time limits on making claims related to maritime injuries, so please contact us online or call 713-804-9306 or to learn more about your rights.