Human error on tug likely caused barge to strike bridge

(SAN FRANCISCO) — Human error on a tugboat probably caused a fuel barge to strike the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge last week, the San Francisco Chronicle reported. No fuel spilled from the barge, but the bridge fender was damaged. A strong current behind the barge may have made the transit too hazardous, the newspaper reported. The Coast Guard said it ruled out equipment failure.
 
Click here to read the newspaper’s story.
 
By Professional Mariner Staff