Harbor Crane Destroys Dredge Operators Cabin In Nigeria

A large harbor crane recently fell onto a cutter suction dredge undergoing maintenance at a yard in Port Harcourt Nigeria destroying the operator’s cabin delivery piping and mufflers but not damaging the structure of the dredge.

The Damon model CSD500 was designed for dredging at -14 meters producing 4000 cubic meters per hour. It was built for a customer in the Middle East for a specific project then sold to Lagos Channel Management after the job was complete. The dredge was undergoing the final inspection and maintenance after the transfer when the accident occurred.

The owner Lagos Channel Management ordered a new cabin from Dutch dredge builder Damon. Since delivery of the dredge in 2006 the cabin design had been modernized but as the footprint is identical it could be mounted directly on the existing foundation.

The newly-designed cabin is more spacious with room for three persons and is well insulated for noise and heat. It is fitted with air conditioning and double tinted glass and the windows have been enlarged to ensure a good view of the deck equipment. The ergonomically-designed desks include all controls ample workspace and a FM-radio. All electrics are fitted out with plugs and installation of the new cabin is expected to go smoothly.

The new cabin was shipped to Nigeria and arrived at the end of May. The dredge was operating again in June.