An Investigation of an Oil Barge Explosion in Corpus Christi, TX

Abstract

On October 20, 2017, an articulated tug and barge carrying crude oil were preparing to get under way from anchorage when an explosion and subsequent fire occurred on the bow of the barge, killing the two crew. The National Transportation Safety Board and US Coast Guard conducted an official federal investigation. The explosion was found to have originated from an accumulation of gasses into empty compartment space that had leaked through a bulkhead from the adjacent crude oil cargo tank. The investigation found through-cracks and perforations stemming from corrosion in the bulkhead separating the compartments. This article highlights the findings and conclusions of the accident investigation while providing recommendations to prevent future accidents and to improve the safety of vessels shipping hazardous material.