Engine Room Blast on Supply Vessel Claims 2 Lives, Leaves 1 Seriously Injured
On August 2, 2024, a tragic accident aboard the platform supply vessel (PSV) Icon Amara, operated by Icon Offshore Berhad, resulted in the deaths of two crew members and left another gravely injured.
The incident took place at approximately 10:30 p.m. local time as the vessel was servicing the Sapar Alpha platform near Bintulu.
According to local police reports, an explosion in the engine room claimed the lives of the assistant engineer and an oiler. Another oiler sustained severe burns covering more than 30% of his body and is currently receiving treatment at a nearby hospital.
Witnesses described the explosion as extremely powerful, with enough force to dislodge the engine room door from its hinges and fill the surrounding area with smoke.
Crewmembers who rushed to the site found the three affected individuals unconscious on the deck.
They were promptly transported to the jetty and then to a local hospital, where the two crew members succumbed to their injuries.
The Icon Amara, a 3,500 dwt vessel built in 2011, can accommodate up to 60 people and is one of two PSVs operated by Icon Offshore. It primarily services the oil and gas fields off Sarawak.
Local authorities have criticized Icon Offshore for its delayed response in releasing a public statement following the incident.
Over a week later, on August 12, 2024, the company finally addressed the situation, citing the need to verify details with the client and relevant authorities as the reason for the delay.
Icon Offshore expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and offered support to the injured seafarer during this difficult time.
The company also assured that it is fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation into the explosion’s cause, although specific details have not yet been disclosed.
Despite this incident, Icon Offshore anticipates that the Icon Amara will resume operations after the investigation concludes.
The company also reassured stakeholders that the vessel and crew were insured.
Image credit: Icon Offshore