A Labrador-based company’s fuel tanker sustained damage while unloading diesel at a mine site in Nunavut. The CEO of the Woodward Group of Companies, Peter Woodward, assured that the incident will not impact the crucial fuel deliveries to Canada’s Arctic during the upcoming winter season.
According to Woodward, the 129-meter vessel, Kivalliq W., owned by Coastal Shipping Limited, experienced a mechanical failure during the discharge process. Fortunately, there were no injuries or fuel spills. The damaged fuel tank will necessitate the vessel to undergo repairs in drydock.
Despite the setback, Woodward confirmed that all contracted fuel deliveries will proceed as planned. Coastal Shipping has arranged for a replacement vessel to transport three fuel shipments from Lewisporte to Arctic ports, ensuring continuity in fuel supply to communities and industrial sites in the region.
Acknowledging the significance of Arctic operations, Woodward emphasized the company’s commitment to fulfilling its obligations. He expressed regret for the incident but highlighted the absence of harm to individuals or the environment. Woodward underscored the company’s strong safety track record over its 26 years of Arctic fuel deliveries.
Moving forward, Woodward stated that the replacement vessel will be operational in the coming days to maintain the steady flow of fuel distribution in the North. The company is conducting an investigation into the incident and assessing the extent of damage to the vessel to prevent future occurrences.
