M/V MSC Claudia; Newark, New Jersey

Newark, New Jersey | 1996-Jan-17

Initial Notification: The M/V MSC Claudia, steaming from Europe to Boston, encountered heavy weather and lost 23 containers overboard, presumably along the coast of Ireland. Upon nearing U.S. waters, the vessel contacted the USCG and other local authorities, reporting that she had damage to containers, two of which were listed on the dangerous cargo manifest (DCM). The products of concern were n-butyl isocyanate (thirty-six 55-gallon drums) and carbonyl iron powders (100 drums [9,500 kilograms]). The container carrying the n-butyl isocyanate was damaged, but there was no evidence that any drums inside were breached. The carbonyl iron powder containers showed no signs that the contents had spilled. Based on information from NOAA's science team and more specific information from the shipper of the n-butyl isocyanate (Bayer Corp.), the USCG, Boston Fire Department, Massachusetts Port Authority, the shipping agent, and the NOAA SSC began developing contingency plans for surveying and offloading the vessel. The vessel was due to arrive at Boston Harbor at 2300 January 16, 1996. She was ordered to remain at the outer anchorage until a contracted survey team and the USCG could board her and assess the risks of bringing her into the inner harbor. The vessel was not allowed to offload the damaged containers until the next day. Because of the delays expected in Boston overnight, the MSC Claudia determined it was in her best interest to steam to her next port of call, New York. She requested and received permission from the USCG and changed course for New York. USCG district 1. Keyword: none.