Saipem’s semi-submersible crane vessel Saipem 7000 has suffered an accident with its crane during load tests in Norway. The main block wire broke and the two cargo barges it was lifting were released into the water. No-one was injured, but for a short time, the Saipem 7000 did develop a list.
The accident occurred on 14 April off the coast of Amoyfjorden in Norway. After having completed DP trials as per DNV testing programme, the Saipem 7000 was performing the planned five-year main cranes load test, under the attendance of the classification authority.
Further to a preliminary assessment, it would appear that the main block wire broke during the test lifting operation and the testing load (two cargo barges) with the main block were released in the water. The two barges are said to have sustained major damage and also capsized following the incident.
Also read: Delivery of Seaway Alfa Lift suffers one year delay after crane accident
The Saipem 7000, after an initial listing caused by the load release, promptly returned in a stable position. Saipem says a crane assessment is ongoing. The vessel was due to work on the Seagreen offshore wind farm off the east coast of Scotland, but it is as yet unclear whether the incident will affect planned work.
Saipem 7000
The Saipem 7000 is 197.95 metres long and can lay pipes in water depths greater than 2000 metres and perform heavy lift operations up to 14,000 tonnes. The DP3 vessel can accommodate up to 725 people.
Picture (top) by Saipem.
Also read: Liebherr: Third party hook caused Orion crane accident
