Antwerp investigates dockworker deaths

The three experienced dockworkers, employed by Euroports and CEPA, were apparently the victims of toxic gases created by the coal the M/S Frontier was carrying, the East Flanders prosecutor’s office has confirmed.

They were found unconscious by their colleagues but all attempts to revive them failed. An investigation into the cause of the incident is underway, but it has been suggested that a mistake may have been made in ensuring adequate ventilation was available to the hold.

In a statement, Euroports said: “The thoughts of Euroports and CEPA go in the first instance to the family, friends and workmates of three colleagues in these difficult circumstances.”

A spokesperson from Antwerp Port Authority told Port Strategy that its condolences are also with the family. They said that thankfully incidents of this type of magnitude are very rare and that the port has an excellent safety record.

“Although there are strict health and safety measures in place for this type of operation, it is however down to the individual parties involved to ensure that they are abided by,” they told PS.

Paddy Crumlin, of The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), said: “We can never relax on port safety and accident prevention. Antwerp is a port where health and safety is taken very seriously, and, like the three men’s trade unions, we are confident that a full investigation will take place into what happened and how any resulting lessons can be implemented.”

He added that dock work is dangerous work and everyone involved must always do everything possible to minimise the risks.

It’s understood that the captain of the vessel is currently being questioned regarding the incident.