Boxes overboard

A Finnish multipurpose vessel has lost thee containers in the Baltic, one of which contained hazardous chemicals.

The 11,500-dwt Linda (built 2007) lost one box that contained 19 tonnes of three different raw materials used in the production of washing agents and shampoo.

But charterer Containerships’ spokesperson Helena Kuuronen said she was glad the material was not exceptionally dangerous.

A second container contained ketchup while a third carried soap fats.

"Being of metal construction, the containers could remain intact on the sea bed for a long time if they were not damaged," Kuuronen told local media.

The incident happened near Sweden’s Gotland Island on 6 February.

Shipowner Langh Ship of Finland said the boxes went overboard after one container on deck collapsed under the weight of three others.

The vessel was heading from Rotterdam to St Petersburg.

The Swedish coast guard issued a navigational warning and searched for the containers, now presumed sunk.

Printable version Newsletter sign up