The National Transportation Safety Board will hold a virtual meeting Dec. 7 to consider the draft final report on the pipeline strike and subsequent explosion and fire aboard the dredging vessel Waymon Boyd in Texas last year.
On Aug. 21, 2020, the Waymon Boyd struck a submerged 16" hazardous liquid propane pipeline during dredging operations in Corpus Christi, Texas. A geyser of propane gas and water erupted adjacent to the vessel. Shortly thereafter, propane gas engulfed the dredge and an explosion occurred.
Fire damaged the vessel and surrounding shoreline. A total of 18 personnel employed by Orion Marine Group were working or resting on the dredge and assist boats (tender boats, anchor barges, booster barges and a supply barge) on the day of the accident. Three crewmembers aboard the Waymon Boyd and one on an adjacent anchor barge died in the explosion and fire. Six crewmembers aboard the dredge were injured, one of whom later died from his injuries. The Waymon Boyd, valued at $9.48 million, was a total loss. The cost of pipeline damage was $2.09 million.
During the meeting, the NTSB members will vote on investigators' findings and recommendations as well as any changes to the draft report.
This meeting will be webcast to the public, with the board members and investigative staff meeting virtually. There will be no physical gathering to facilitate the board meeting.
WHAT: A virtual NTSB meeting on the hazardous liquid pipeline strike and subsequent explosion and fire aboard dredging vessel Waymon Boyd accident investigation.
WHO: NTSB investigative staff and board members.
WHEN: Tuesday, Dec. 7, at 9:30 a.m. (Eastern)
HOW: A link to the webcast will be available shortly before the start of the meeting.
