Working Conditions Aboard the Taokas-Wisdom

Workers at Port Nelson raised an alarm following a fire outbreak on the log carrier 'Taokas Wisdom' while it was loading on the morning of July 11, 2013. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported, but the accommodation section of the vessel sustained considerable damage. The 'Taokas Wisdom' had docked at Port Nelson from Shanghai on July 10 and was engaged in loading operations throughout the night at Kingsford Quay, located directly across from the Sealord complex. Around 6 a.m., port workers on their break spotted smoke emerging from the ship’s accommodation area and promptly notified the Fire Service. In response, two fire engines and an ambulance were dispatched, with a third fire engine sent as a precautionary measure in case the situation worsened. The ship’s crew responded swiftly to the fire incident, utilizing the vessel's hosereels and breaking a porthole for better access to the blaze. The fire reportedly originated from a cabin, potentially due to an electrical appliance, leading to significant damage to that cabin and the adjacent companionway, alongside smoke damage throughout the accommodation area. The crew's quick actions involved using substantial amounts of water to extinguish the flames. Firefighters, equipped with breathing apparatuses, employed a thermal imaging camera to ensure that there were no residual hot spots after controlling the fire. They also utilized a ram fan to assist in smoke evacuation. Despite the fire, the 'Taokas Wisdom' was still scheduled for a departure to Picton later that day for further log loading, with no delays anticipated in its itinerary. For more details and photos, visit the full report at http://www.odt.co.nz/news/national/264385/logging-ship-fire-nelson.