Faulty Wire Triggers Baltimore Bridge Collapse
The investigation into the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore has concluded. This tragic event, which took place on March 26, 2024, resulted in the deaths of six construction workers. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) identified the main cause of the incident as a faulty electrical wire connection on the container ship involved in the collision.
Incident Overview
The Singapore-flagged container ship, named Dali, lost electrical power, leading to a loss of propulsion and steering. As a result, the ship struck the bridge over the Patapsco River, leading to the catastrophic failure. Investigators determined that a loose wire connection due to a design flaw in the metal sleeve contributed to the power failure.
Key Findings of the Investigation
- The faulty wire connection was responsible for two significant blackouts on the ship.
- The loose connection was tied to the design of the metal sleeve that failed to secure the wire properly.
- The NTSB described the search for the faulty wire as challenging, likening it to “finding a needle in a haystack.”
Impact on Construction Workers
The investigation revealed a critical timeline issue. There was a delay between when police were informed to block traffic and when the collision occurred, clocking in at one minute and 29 seconds. Had the construction workers been alerted in a timely manner, they might have evacuated to a safer area on the bridge.
Responsibility of the Ship Manufacturer
The ship manufacturer, HD Hyundai Heavy, collaborated with investigators to test thousands of wires in search of the faulty connection. The design flaw highlighted concerns regarding the safety mechanisms in place aboard the Dali.
Conclusion
This incident has raised significant questions about maritime safety and the measures needed to prevent such tragedies in the future. The loss of six lives underscores the critical importance of timely notifications and equipment reliability in construction zones.
