On May 7, 2018, about 1848 local time, the towing vessel Steve Richoux with five crewmembers was downbound on the Mississippi River in New Orleans, Louisiana, pushing six loaded cement barges when a steering system failure occurred. The pilot and the captain tried to regain steering control of the vessel. Despite their efforts, the Steve Richoux struck the Mardi Gras World pier at mile 98. No pollution or injuries were reported; estimated property damage exceeded $3 million.

​​The probable cause of the contact of the Steve Richoux tow with the Mardi Gras World pier was a loss of steering control due to a recurring yet unreported problem with the vessel’s steering system.

​​Labeling of Alarms

Accurate labeling of alarms pertaining to critical machinery and essential systems is crucial so that vessel operators understand the nature of problems or failures. Quickly understanding what specific condition exists allows crewmembers and/or the operating ​company to take timely and appropriate action to mitigate or correct the condition.