On 31 August last year, a fatal accident occurred during the dismantling of the Norwegian floating oil platform Bideford Dolphin at the IŞIKSAN ship recycling yard in Aliağa, İzmir.
Ten workers onboard the offshore unit were exposed to toxic gas. Tragically, İbrahim Karakaya—who was at the site to purchase materials and furniture before dismantling began—lost his life.
According to the expert report submitted to the prosecution file, the accident was entirely preventable. The cause was traced to interference with a solenoid valve, which resulted in oxygen deprivation within a confined space.
The report further revealed failure by the ship recycling yard to implement fundamental occupational safety procedures: no gas-free protocol was carried out, confined spaces were not adequately inspected, hazardous areas were not sealed off, and there were no emergency response or rescue measures in place.
“Work in confined spaces and the management of gas measurements are based on well-established standards that have been in place for nearly half a century. This accident could and should have been avoided.” states Prof. Dr. Alp Ergör from the İzmir Medical Chamber.
Despite having identified serious breaches of safety standards and clear negligence by IŞIKSAN, no penalties on the yard have so far been imposed.
“The accident occurred due to a lack of occupational safety measures and ineffective emergency management. No assessment was made, and no one took responsibility. Ensuring safety and justice calls for continued effort and commitment.” adds Sonay Tezcan from the Workers’ Platform of the Aegean”
While there is an ongoing criminal investigation, Ibrahim Karakaya’s wife and two children have been left without adequate support. The emotional, financial, and logistical distress of Ibrahim’s death has deeply affected every aspect of their lives. İbrahim’s widow, who now tragically is under treatment for cancer, is the sole caretaker of two young children, and has recently filed a separate compensation case to seek justice, accountability, and the fair reparations her family deserves from IŞIKSAN.
