Investigation Report
Uncontrolled decent of lifeboat during release gear test on Royal Fleet Auxiliary vessel Fort Victoria with 2 people injured
Uncontrolled decent of lifeboat during release gear test on Royal Fleet Auxiliary vessel Fort Victoria with 2 people injured
- MAIB
- Investigation Report
- Control of WorkEvacuation, Escape and RescueMachinery and Equipment
- Human factorsRisk management
- Inspection and maintenanceMarine operations
- LifeboatLifting accessories
- Functional testingHuman-centred designOperating and work proceduresRisk assessment
- Marine industry
- Port and quaysideVessel
Summary
Investigates two injuries during an on-load lifeboat release test aboard RFA Fort Victoria at Falmouth ship repair yard. The boat fell about 1.2 m before striking water. Analysis examines test procedures, risk assessment, unclear command, crew experience, restraint accessibility and impact transmission, alongside subsequent procedural changes and design recommendations.
Classifications: Human factors; human performance; ergonomics.
Classifications: Risk management; risk evaluation.
Classifications: Inspection and maintenance; asset inspection; equipment maintenance.
Classifications: Marine operations; maritime operations.
Classifications: Lifeboat; survival craft.
Classifications: Lifting accessories; lifting gear; rigging gear.
Classifications: Functional testing; function test.
Classifications: Human-centred design.
Classifications: Operating and work procedures.
Classifications: Risk assessment; hazard assessment.
Classifications: Marine industry; shipping industry; maritime sector.
Classifications: Port and quayside; quayside; harbour; harbor.
Classifications: Vessel; aboard ship; onboard vessel.
Summary
A lifeboat descended uncontrollably during release-gear testing, injuring two people aboard a naval auxiliary vessel.
Themes: control of work, evacuation, escape and rescue, machinery and equipment.