Emergency preparedness for management of main propulsion engine failure on a bulker during harsh weather at sea

Bulkers are vessels that carry various types of cargo, which includes coal, iron ore or grain ranging from 3000 deadweight tonne (dwt) to 400,000 dwt. These bulkers are propelled by large marine diesel engines the capacity of which ranges from 4000 kW to 80,000 kW. The owners of the bulkers generally charter the vessels to reputed charter parties for mutually agreed terms and condition, the main specifications being the vessel speed in knots and the fuel consumption in tonnes per day respectively. Safe transportation of the bulk cargo from one port to another at the specs of the charter party is a great challenge for the vessel’s chief engineer. Moreover, there is a likelihood of the vessel coming to a halt in a harsh weather condition, because of the main engine failure. Thus, the seafarer’s on-board ship needs to be well prepared to handle such an emergency in a harsh working environment. This study looks at the likelihood of main engine failure during harsh weather at sea and effective ways of managing the emergency. The findings of this study will work as a guide for the seafarers and helps to manage the risk on-board ship.