Three injured in reported weekend explosion aboard ship in Bluff

Photo: TAIC

Three crew members were injured, two seriously, after an explosion reportedly occurred aboard a ship berthed in Bluff over the weekend. The incident happened while the crew was working on a boiler in the ship's engine room at around 3.15am on Saturday.

The Transport Accident Investigation Commission launched an investigation on Monday into the incident aboard Malta registered bulk carrier MV Olivia at South Port.

"The reported circumstances were that three crew members onboard the MV Olivia were working on a boiler in the engine room," the release announcing the investigation read. "During this process, there was an explosion or flashback, causing injury to the three crew members. "The Transport Accident Investigation Commission is investigating this 'serious marine casualty' as required under the International Maritime Organisation’s Casualty Investigation Code."

St Johns said it responded with one rapid response unit and two ambulances to the scene. "Our crews assessed and treated three patients, one in a moderate condition and two in a serious condition who were transported to Southland Hospital."

Fire and Emergency NZ responded with two crews from Bluff and Invercargill. "There was a small fire, but it was out before Fire and Emergency NZ attended," a spokesperson said.

Source: 1news.co.nz