The twin-hull heavy carry vessel VB-10,000 might be used for reducing and lifting operations [Photo by U.S. Coast Guard Chief Petty Officer John D. Miller]
The St. Simons Sound Incident Unified Command engaged on the salvage of the capsized automobile provider Golden Ray introduced a pause in elimination operations throughout a web-based media convention June 24.
The Unified Command (USCG, Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Gallagher Marine Systems) says it’s implementing enhanced safety and mitigation protocols in opposition to COVID-19 in addition to delaying the reducing and lifting operations of the vessel till after peak hurricane season.
“While we are proud of the fact that our response protocols and responder discipline have held COVID-19 at bay until early July, COVID-19 has finally impacted this response.” stated Incident Commander Tom Wiker of Gallagher Marine Systems. To date, 10 responders have examined optimistic and greater than 50 responders, out of roughly 300 personnel, have been quarantined as a consequence of contact tracing. Impacts to response personnel warranted the Unified Command to rethink shifting ahead with sophisticated reducing and lifting operations as the peak of hurricane season looms. COVID-19 has been all or partially impactful on delays within the mobilization of response sources within the international provide chain, delays in fabrication of obligatory gear resembling lifting lugs, and delays in barge modifications.”
“Although COVID-19 and the weather conditions during this time of year are two separate issues, they should be considered jointly as they both relate to the overall project success. Separately these impacts are difficult to manage but together they create a uniquely challenging situation,” stated Wiker. “As safety of responders and the public along with the environment have and continue to be our primary objectives, the Unified Command has made the difficult decision to pause the cutting and lifting operations.”
Responders proceed to comply with CDC pointers strictly and have tailored every day operations accordingly. Measures in place to restrict COVID-19 publicity embody every day well being checks, required carrying of face coverings, safe-distancing and teleworking (at any time when doable), self-quarantines for all incoming members, steady disinfection of services and work platforms, and get in touch with tracing protocols when obligatory. On-site medical advisors consistently revise well being security steerage with respect to new details about the unfold of the illness.
“Pausing operations allows us to reduce the immediate risk of COVID-19 to responders, minimize combined COVID-19 and Heavy Weather Risks to future operations, and allows us to implement robust, long-term COVID-19 mitigating measures when we resume.” stated Cmdr. Efren Lopez, Federal On-Scene Coordinator. “This operation is unprecedented and we remain committed to reducing risks and ensuring overall success.”
The wreck is secure and isn’t anticipated to influence the deep water channel or to industrial ship visitors in the course of the pause. Responders proceed to observe and keep the Environmental Protection Barrier (EPB) and scouring safety in addition to survey the vessel utilizing on-site monitoring methods on a 24-hour foundation. Response personnel and gear will stay prepared to reply with quite a lot of on-water sources ought to the necessity come up. A security zone across the EPB surrounding the motor vessel Golden Ray wreck web site will stay in impact to guard the response crews and the general public.
VB 10K STAYS IN REGION
The VB 10,000 heavy-lift, twin-gantry crane (VB 10K), modified particularly for the reducing lifting operation, will stay within the area. VB 10K will finally be mobilized to St. Simon’s Sound to start reducing & lifting operations on or about October 1. These operations are anticipated to final for eight weeks from the onset barring any unexpected obstacles.
“All other aspects of the response will remain in place and the pause only pertains to the actual cutting and lifting of the ship sections. Since day one of this response, our priorities have been the safety of the public and all team members, and the preservation of the vast resources and beauty of St. Simons Sound.” stated John Maddox, State On-Scene Coordinator. “During these difficult times, we remain committed to a safe and successful removal of the Golden Ray and we appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding as we move forward.”
