Jul 10 • Maritime Trainer

What Lessons Can We Learn from the Dali-Francis Scott Key Bridge Collision?

I. Introduction

On a seemingly routine day, the maritime community was jolted by a significant collision involving the cargo ship Dali and the Francis Scott Key Bridge. This incident not only caused substantial damage but also raised critical questions about maritime safety and the robustness of ship systems.

The collision, currently under investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), highlights the vulnerabilities and complexities inherent in maritime operations. Preliminary reports suggest that a loss of propulsion and steering due to an electrical breaker trip might have been a significant factor. However, identifying the root cause goes beyond this single event, encompassing broader issues like mechanical integrity, system redundancy, and crew response protocols.

While rare, maritime collisions can have devastating consequences, including loss of life, environmental damage, and economic costs. Therefore, understanding and investigating these incidents is crucial for enhancing safety protocols and preventing future occurrences.

This blog aims to deep into the details of the Dali-Francis Scott Key Bridge collision, exploring potential root causes and evaluating the effectiveness of different preventive measures. By analyzing this incident, we seek to provide insights and recommendations that can help improve safety standards and operational practices in the maritime industry. Through this detailed examination, we hope to contribute to a safer maritime environment for all.

II. Incident Overview

Background Information

Date and Location of the Collision: On March 26, 2024, at approximately 1:29 AM, the containership Dali collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Maryland​ (NTSB)​​ (BOC International)​.

Vessels Involved:

  • The Dali: A 947-foot-long Singapore-flagged cargo vessel managed by Synergy Marine Group. At the time of the incident, the Dali was departing the Port of Baltimore and en route to Colombo, Sri Lanka​ (BOC International)​.
  • The Francis Scott Key Bridge: A significant steel arch-shaped continuous truss bridge that spanned the Patapsco River, forming part of Interstate 695, Baltimore’s beltway​ (NTSB)​.

Initial Findings

Preliminary Report by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB): The preliminary investigation by the NTSB identified that the Dali experienced a loss of electrical power and propulsion shortly before the collision. This power loss led to a blackout affecting all shipboard lighting and most equipment​ (NTSB)​​ (The Independent)​.

Key Points about the Propulsion and Steering Failure:

  • The NTSB's investigation noted that electrical breakers HR1 and LR1 opened unexpectedly when the vessel was about three ship lengths from the Key Bridge, causing the blackout​​.
  • The ship's voyage data recorder (VDR) captured numerous alarms and the loss of system data, which indicated the critical timing of the power failure and subsequent collision​​.
  • Despite attempts to drop the port anchor and radio for assistance, the Dali was unable to regain control in time to avoid the collision​​.


The NTSB continues to investigate the design and operation of the vessel's electrical power distribution system to determine the root cause and develop potential safety recommendations​ (NTSB)​.

III. Detailed Analysis of Potential Root Causes

Electrical Breaker Trip

Explanation of How Electrical Breakers Work on a Ship: Electrical breakers on ships function as safety devices designed to protect electrical circuits from damage caused by overcurrent or short circuits. When the current flowing through a circuit exceeds a safe level, the breaker interrupts the flow by separating the contacts. This can be achieved through various mechanisms such as manual springs, motor-driven stored charge springs, or solenoids​ (Electro-technical Officer (ETO))​​ (HowStuffWorks)​.


Possible Reasons for the Breaker Trip:

  1. Mechanical Issue: Physical wear and tear or failure of components within the breaker can cause it to trip.
  2. Electrical Surge: Sudden spikes in electrical current, often due to lightning or power fluctuations, can trigger a breaker.
  3. Human Error: Incorrect operation or maintenance practices can lead to unintended tripping of breakers.
  4. System Malfunction: Faults within the ship’s electrical system, such as an undervoltage condition, can also cause breakers to trip​.

Redundancy in Ship's Systems

Importance of Backup Systems on Vessels: Backup systems are critical on ships to ensure continued operation and safety in the event of a primary system failure. These systems provide redundancy, allowing vital functions to continue even if one system goes down.

Investigation into Whether Backup Systems Failed or Were Not Present: The investigation into the Dali collision revealed that the loss of power and propulsion was due to the tripping of high and low voltage breakers. It remains essential to determine if backup systems were available and if they functioned correctly. Effective redundancy could include secondary power sources or parallel circuits that take over in case of primary system failure​ (NTSB)​​ (Marine Insight)​.

Crew Communication and Response

Standard Procedures During Power Loss: In the event of a power loss, standard procedures on ships include immediately informing the bridge, attempting to restore power, and deploying emergency measures such as dropping anchors to prevent drifting. Effective communication and swift action are crucial to managing such emergencies.

Assessment of the Crew's Response During the Incident: During the Dali incident, the crew reportedly attempted to communicate the power loss and took steps such as dropping the port anchor and calling for tugboat assistance. However, the rapid sequence of events and the proximity to the bridge limited their ability to prevent the collision. The NTSB continues to evaluate the crew's adherence to standard procedures and their effectiveness in managing the crisis​ (The Independent)​.

IV. Poll Results and Analysis

Summary of LinkedIn Poll

Overview of Poll Options and Results:

 To engage the maritime community and gather insights on preventive measures, a LinkedIn poll was conducted with the following options:
  1. Improve watchkeeping standards – 14%
  2. Additional electrical training – 29%
  3. Upgrading electrical systems – 14%
  4. Reduce crew working hours – 43%

The poll results indicated that the majority of respondents (43%) favored reducing crew working hours as the most effective preventive measure. This was followed by additional electrical training, which received 29% of the votes.

Discussion of Poll Insights

Analysis of the Most Popular Preventive Measures Suggested by Respondents:

1. Reduce Crew Working Hours (43%):

Insight: A significant portion of respondents believe that fatigue and overworking are critical issues affecting maritime safety. Reducing crew working hours can potentially lead to better alertness and decision-making abilities, thereby reducing the risk of accidents.

Implications: Implementing policies to manage working hours more effectively could help in mitigating fatigue-related errors and improve overall safety on board.

2. Additional Electrical Training (29%):

Insight: This option highlights the importance of specialized training for crew members to handle electrical systems and troubleshoot issues effectively. Given the complexity of modern ships' electrical systems, ongoing training is essential for maintaining operational safety.

Implications: Investing in continuous professional development and training programs can enhance the crew’s ability to respond to electrical malfunctions, reducing the likelihood of incidents similar to the Dali collision.

3. Improve Watchkeeping Standards (14%):

Insight: This option underscores the importance of maintaining rigorous watchkeeping protocols. Proper watchkeeping is crucial for early detection of potential issues and prompt intervention.

Implications: Strengthening watchkeeping standards through regular training and adherence to best practices can improve situational awareness and prevent collisions.

4. Upgrading Electrical Systems (14%):

Insight: Although it received fewer votes, upgrading electrical systems is a critical measure. Modernizing the ship's electrical infrastructure can prevent malfunctions that lead to power losses and propulsion failures.

Implications: Upgrading electrical systems to the latest standards and incorporating redundancy can enhance reliability and safety, thus preventing future incidents.

Importance of Understanding Different Perspectives in Maritime Safety:

Understanding the diverse perspectives on maritime safety is crucial for developing comprehensive preventive measures. The poll results reflect the varied priorities and insights of industry professionals, emphasizing the need for a multi-faceted approach to safety. By considering different viewpoints, maritime organizations can implement balanced and effective strategies that address both immediate and underlying causes of incidents.


V. Corrective Measure: Upgrading Electrical Systems

Explanation of the Correct Answer

Detailed Reasons Why Upgrading Electrical Systems is the Most Effective Preventive Measure: Upgrading electrical systems on ships is critical for ensuring the reliability and safety of maritime operations. The electrical system is the backbone of a vessel's functionality, powering essential equipment such as propulsion, steering, navigation, and communication systems. When these systems fail, the consequences can be catastrophic, as seen in the Dali incident. Upgrading the electrical systems involves replacing outdated components with modern, more reliable technology, enhancing the overall performance and safety of the vessel

Key Reasons:

1. Preventing Electrical Failures:

Modern electrical systems are designed with advanced protection mechanisms to prevent failures. Upgraded circuit breakers and distribution systems can detect and isolate faults more efficiently, minimizing the risk of power loss and equipment damage​​.

2. Enhancing System Redundancy:

Upgrades often include the integration of redundant systems that provide backup power and controls. This ensures that even if one component fails, the vessel can continue to operate safely until repairs are made​​.

3. Improving Maintenance and Diagnostics:

Modern electrical systems come with advanced diagnostic tools that allow for real-time monitoring and easier maintenance. These tools help in early detection of potential issues, enabling timely interventions before a failure occurs​​.

Benefits of Upgrading Electrical Systems

Enhanced Reliability and Safety:

Upgraded electrical systems are more reliable and robust, reducing the likelihood of unexpected failures. This reliability translates into safer operations, as critical functions like steering and propulsion are less likely to be compromised​.

Reduced Risk of Future Propulsion and Steering Failures:

With modern electrical systems, the risk of propulsion and steering failures is significantly minimized. These systems are equipped with better fault detection and isolation capabilities, ensuring that any issues are quickly addressed without affecting the entire vessel's operation​.

In conclusion, upgrading electrical systems is a pivotal measure for enhancing the safety and reliability of maritime operations. By learning from past incidents and successful case studies, maritime companies can implement effective upgrades that safeguard their vessels against electrical failures and ensure smooth, uninterrupted operations.

VI. Conclusion

The collision between the containership Dali and the Francis Scott Key Bridge highlighted significant vulnerabilities in maritime safety, particularly related to electrical system failures. Our detailed analysis identified that the primary cause was a loss of propulsion and steering due to electrical breaker trips. Various potential root causes were explored, including mechanical issues, electrical surges, and human error. The importance of redundancy in ship systems and effective crew communication and response was emphasized.

Poll results from industry professionals indicated a strong preference for measures such as reducing crew working hours and additional electrical training. However, the most effective preventive measure identified was upgrading the electrical systems on ships. Upgrading these systems enhances reliability, reduces the risk of propulsion and steering failures, and provides better diagnostic capabilities. Case studies from the maritime industry further support the benefits of comprehensive electrical system upgrades.

To prevent future incidents similar to the Dali collision, it is crucial for maritime companies to invest in upgrading their electrical systems. These upgrades not only improve operational safety and reliability but also ensure compliance with evolving maritime regulations. Investing in modern, redundant electrical systems can significantly reduce the likelihood of catastrophic failures, safeguarding both crew and vessel.

We invite maritime professionals and companies to join the conversation on maritime safety. Share your insights, experiences, and suggestions on how we can collectively enhance safety standards in the industry. Together, we can work towards a safer, more reliable future for maritime operations.

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