Investigation Report
Snagging and flooding of stern trawler Heather Bloom resulting in vessel sinking with loss of 1 life
Snagging and flooding of stern trawler Heather Bloom resulting in vessel sinking with loss of 1 life
- MAIB
- Investigation Report
- Marine Operations
- Loss of vessel stabilityMechanical failureVessel flooding and foundering
- Fishing operations
- WinchWire rope
- Competence and trainingEvacuation, escape and rescueFlood containment and watertight integrityOperating and work procedures
- Commercial fishing
- Marine watersVessel
Summary
Investigation of Heather Bloom’s sinking north of Cape Wrath after bottom-trawl snagging, obstructed deck drainage and progressive flooding. It examines hydraulic power loss, difficulties releasing loaded winch brakes, watertight integrity and emergency communications. Liferafts helped five crew survive; the skipper died, but the cause of death was not established.
Classifications: Loss of vessel stability; capsize; vessel stability.
Classifications: Mechanical failure; equipment failure.
Classifications: Vessel flooding and foundering; water ingress.
Classifications: Fishing operations.
Classifications: Winch; winches.
Classifications: Wire rope; steel wire rope.
Classifications: Competence and training; competency assurance; safety training.
Classifications: Evacuation, escape and rescue; EER; escape and rescue.
Classifications: Flood containment and watertight integrity.
Classifications: Operating and work procedures.
Classifications: Commercial fishing.
Classifications: Marine waters.
Classifications: Vessel; aboard ship; onboard vessel.
Summary
Investigation into fishing gear snagging and flooding that caused a stern trawler to sink, resulting in one fatality.
Themes: marine operations.