Underwater inspection for grounding

Grounding damage occurs when a vessel makes unintended contact with the seabed or a submerged object during its voyage. This type of incident can result in various forms of damage to the vessel and potentially lead to environmental and safety concerns

BEVALDIA, using our experienced diving team, photo and video equipment, and ultrasonic thickness and measurement tools, can provide a detailed and specific breakdown (per area) of the damage sustained due to the grounding of the vessel in our damage assessment report which will also includes sketches of the affected areas.

Here’s a breakdown of grounding damage during a vessel’s voyage:

1) Hull Damage: The most common type of damage resulting from grounding is hull damage. When a vessel runs aground, the force of impact can cause dents, punctures, or even breaches in the hull structure. This can lead to water ingress, compromising the vessel’s buoyancy and potentially causing it to take on water.

2) Structural Damage: In addition to hull damage, grounding can also cause structural damage to other components of the vessel, such as bulkheads, frames, and keel structures. The force exerted during the grounding can lead to deformation or fracture of these structural elements, weakening the vessel’s overall integrity.

3) Machinery and Equipment Damage: Grounding incidents can also result in damage to the vessel’s machinery and equipment. Components such as propellers, rudders, and shafts may suffer impact damage or become entangled with debris on the seabed, impairing their functionality and requiring repairs or replacement.

4) Environmental Impact: Grounding can have significant environmental consequences, particularly if it occurs in sensitive marine ecosystems or near coastal areas. Spillage of fuel or hazardous materials from the vessel’s tanks can lead to pollution of the marine environment, posing risks to marine life and ecosystems. Containment and cleanup efforts may be required to mitigate the environmental impact of a grounding incident.

5) Navigational Hazards: A grounded vessel may obstruct navigational channels, posing hazards to other vessels operating in the vicinity. This can disrupt maritime traffic and require intervention from authorities to establish safety zones, conduct salvage operations, or implement navigational aids to prevent further incidents.

6) Operational Disruption: Grounding damage can result in operational disruption for the vessel and its owners. Depending on the extent of the damage, the vessel may be immobilized or require repairs at a shipyard, leading to delays in scheduled voyages, loss of revenue, and additional expenses associated with salvage, towing, and repairs.