NTSB Attributes Collision at Wisconsin Taconite Facility to Electrical System Failures

Superior, WI – A recent investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has concluded that the collision between the bulk carrier Algoma Discovery and the BNSF Allouez Taconite Facility in Superior, Wisconsin, was primarily caused by the insufficient evaluation and repair of an electrical system malfunction. The incident, which occurred on July 20, 2024, involved the cargo vessel striking five loading shuttles at the facility after experiencing a loss of electrical power and main propulsion while attempting to dock. Fortunately, no injuries were reported as a result of the accident, and no environmental pollution occurred.

The NTSB’s final report identifies the chief engineer and the operating company as being responsible for not adequately addressing a previous malfunction of an online generator’s automatic voltage regulator. This failure to properly diagnose and repair the issue led to the vessel losing all electrical power and propulsion during a critical maneuver toward the dock. Subsequently, a drop in control air pressure contributed to a secondary loss of propulsion, exacerbating the situation and resulting in the collision. The financial impact of the incident includes an estimated $950,000 in damages to the BNSF facility and approximately $130,000 in damages to the Algoma Discovery. The findings of this investigation are intended to inform future safety protocols and maintenance practices within the maritime industry to prevent similar occurrences.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the National Transportation Safety Board

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