Tankerman Honored For Asphalt Transfer Response

Midwest Tankermen Inc. is recognizing an employee whose quick thinking and decisive response prevented a potentially catastrophic situation during a tandem barge transfer in Chicago last year.

On June 14, 2024, at about 7:45 a.m., while tankerman Ryan Polk was discharging asphalt alongside a boat tankerman during a tandem transfer operation, a critical equipment failure occurred. The crossover hose connecting the two barges ruptured near the ferrule crimp at the outboard barge’s header connection, causing 300-degree molten asphalt to spray across both barges and into the water, the company said in a press release.

Without hesitation, Polk sprang into action. Within seconds, he reached and activated the emergency transfer shutdown system, halting the uncontrolled release of hazardous material. “His swift response was vital in containing the incident and protecting personnel, equipment and the environment from further harm,” the company said.

In recognition of his actions, Polk received an award from the operating barge line and will be formally honored with an AWO HERO Award on August 14 at the AWO Chicago Convention. The AWO HERO Award documents and recognizes rescues undertaken by employees of American Waterways Operators member companies who demonstrate selflessness, skill and bravery.

The award underscores the extraordinary efforts of maritime professionals who go above and beyond in the face of danger.

“I was just doing my job,” Polk said. Since the incident, he said, he has redoubled his focus on situational awareness—setting a personal goal of 20,000 steps per transfer to ensure he is constantly moving, monitoring and proactively preventing potential issues.

“Ryan’s actions reflect the highest standards of professionalism and integrity that define our tankermen,” said James Loughlin, CEO of Midwest Tankermen. “We are incredibly proud of his dedication to safety and service.”