Americas News
Kingston Bunker Spill "Caused by Human Error"
A diesel spill which led to the temporary shutdown of a Washington State ferry service in September last year has been attributed to human error, local media reports.
On September 1, 2014, fuel was being moved from the Walla Walla's main tanks to an emergency generator when approximately two gallons of fuel escaped the vent line and spilled into the Appletree Cove in Kingston, according to a Coast Guard report.
In addition, 15-30 gallons spilled out onto the ferry's top deck.
"The vessel's Chief Engineer was not familiar with the transfer system and its capabilities or operation before making the fuel oil transfer from the diesel oil day tanks to the emergency diesel fuel oil tank," said the report.
"The Chief Engineer did not use his available vessel engine room crew to help with the fuel oil transfer and ended up overwhelming the system which ultimately led to the oil spill."
The chief engineer also reportedly failed to test pipes and valves, in addition to turning down an offer for a spotter at the emergency generator.
It is not clear whether disciplinary action will be taken.
It was reported at the time that due to the spill, ferry service for the Walla Walla and the route's other ferry was suspended for most of the morning, with normal operations having resumed by the afternoon.
