Dozens of US sailors fall ill after diesel fume exposure on submarine

Dozens of US Navy personnel fell ill after exposure to diesel exhaust fumes from the Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine USS Nebraska on June 22, according to Navy Times.

A total of 64 sailors reported symptoms including coughing, headaches, lightheadedness, dizziness and nausea while performing routine pier duties at Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor in Silverdale, Washington. They were working in proximity to a functioning backup diesel generator when the exposure occurred and also experienced irritation of the eyes, nose and throat.

“The Navy is working to identify the precise cause of the event and will take corrective action as appropriate,” the service said.

Six sailors were admitted for further medical evaluation, but all have since been released.

The Navy said the diesel generator onboard does not affect the submarine’s nuclear reactor during operation, adding that the reactor remained undisturbed.

The 560-foot-long Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine is designed to carry ballistic missiles and nuclear warheads and is capable of descending to depths of up to 800 feet.

By Tamilla Hasanova