Risk analysis of break-in-two accident of ships using fuzzy DEMATEL method

Structural damage accidents that lead to disastrous results are an important problem in the maritime industry. However, as a sectoral requirement, factors causing break-in-two accident of ships are not clearly defined. In this study, an alternative risk analysis approach based on 18 factors that trigger ship structural damage was presented in order to prevent break-in-two accident of ships. These factors were determined by using literature review and they were analyzed using fuzzy DEMATEL (Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory), a widely used method to find out the cause and effect relationship among. Nine factors for cause and effect groups were investigated separately. According to the analyses, in the cause group, cargo specification (0.87), competency of the crew involved in the cargo handling operation (0.78), compliance with international rules, regulations and guidelines about ship safety and cargo operation (0.63), heavy weather (0.59) were identified as the most critical factors. However, among the effect group, cargo stowage and operational plan (3.30), ship's age, hull and structure condition (3.31) and complying with the ship's planned maintenance system (2.67) were indicated as the most highly significant factors. Accordingly, some recommendations for using fuzzy DEMATEL approach were made considering ship structural accidents and preventive measures. • Cargo handling operations and cargo transportation process is crucial for ship structural integrity. • The occurrence of ship's hull crack and break-in-two accident of ships may cause catastrophic consequences such as loss of life, injuries, pollution and total loss. • Risk analysis is of paramount importance to enhance operational safety and to protect environment for ships. • The most critical factors that trigger break-in-two accident of ships are cargo specification and cargo stowage.