Topic
Drowning
Persons entering water with drowning risk and related prevention.
Newest 100 Documents
All 355 in search- 202620 Aug
Man overboard from the lone-operated creel fishing vessel Sea Eagle (AH18) resulting in one presumed fatality
MAIB investigates the presumed loss of Sea Eagle’s lone skipper off Montrose. The mechanism of entry into the water remains unknown. Analysis examines semi-self-shooting creel operations, increased entanglement risk when carrying two strings, incomplete risk assessments, cold-water exposure and limitations on raising the alarm and self-recovery.
- 202628 Jul
Man overboard from the bulk carrier World Prize with the loss of 1 life
This investigation examines a bosun’s fatal fall into the sea during combination-ladder rigging on World Prize. It analyses normalised unsafe practices, ineffective supervision, permit compliance, incompatible flotation and harness equipment, and radio shortages. Pilot-boat recovery capability and training gaps are examined alongside subsequent corrective actions; no recommendations were made.
- 202615 Jul
Allision of the rigid inflatable boat Peaky Blinder with a navigation beacon with the loss of 2 lives
Investigation of Peaky Blinder’s fatal allision with a navigation beacon in Portsmouth Harbour examines excessive speed, ineffective lookout and alcohol-related impairment. It discusses absent personal flotation devices, recreational boating alcohol regulation and harbour speed enforcement, with recommendations addressing statutory alcohol limits, public awareness and adherence to speed restrictions.
- 202618 Jun
Fall overboard from the crab potting vessel Amadeus (TH7) with the loss of 1 life
Investigation of a fatal fall overboard during manual crab-pot hauling on Amadeus in the North Sea. It examines low bulwark protection, biomechanical demands, almost certain significant fatigue, absent flotation and ineffective recovery arrangements. Findings address deficient safety management and regulatory oversight, with recommendations on fall prevention, handling assessment and work–rest monitoring.
- 202621 May
Man overboard from the potting vessel Wilaya (M36) with the loss of 1 life
Investigation of a fatal overboard incident during pot deployment on Wilaya near Jack Sound. A rope bight caught the deckhand’s leg, dragging him into the sea; attached gear overcame his flotation device. The report examines crew–gear separation, risk-assessment implementation, safety training, inspection shortcomings and casualty recovery.
- 202630 Apr
Double man overboard from the fishing vessel Weston Bay (GY123) with the loss of 1 life
Investigation into two deckhands entering the water during pot deployment aboard Weston Bay, with one death. It examines manual downstacking, exposure to running gear, loss of flotation support and failed recovery equipment, alongside deficiencies in emergency drills, risk assessments, crew task allocation and safety training. The second deckhand’s entry mechanism remains unknown.
- 202624 Mar
MSF: High potential near miss during FRC maintenance
During sling replacement aboard a vessel, a fast rescue craft slipped from its davit cradle. Two crew members jumped into the sea and were recovered unharmed. The flash describes inadequate securing, a failed bowsing-line carabiner and gaps in work planning, including missing procedures, risk assessment and permit authorisation.
- 2026Mar
Personal Safety (USCG)
US Coast Guard inspection questions address personnel safety on manned and unmanned OCS platforms. They link protective equipment, housekeeping, deck guarding, lifesaving provision, escape arrangements and emergency drills to regulatory authorities and enforcement actions. Individual entries carry update labels, including March 2026 changes to escape and survival equipment checks.
- 202612 Feb
Girting and capsize of tug Biter with the loss of two lives while assisting passenger vessel Hebridean Princess
Investigation of Biter’s fatal girting and capsize while assisting Hebridean Princess on the River Clyde. It examines towing speed, bridle loading, gob-rope securing, watertight integrity, operational exchanges and training. The precise reason for gob-rope rendering remained unresolved; post-salvage testing found the towing-hook release mechanism functional.
- 202622 Jan
Fall from a pilot ladder while attempting to board the cargo vessel Finnhawk from the pilot vessel Humber Saturn with loss of 1 life
Investigation of a fatal pilot boarding accident involving Finnhawk and Humber Saturn. A probable cardiac event preceded the fall, while recovery-platform failure left the injured pilot partially immersed for over 40 minutes. The report examines medical fitness assessment, hydraulic defects, maintenance, cold-water protection and rescue training.
- 202518 Dec
Man overboard in port: Seaman falls from quay access ladder
A seaman climbing a damaged quay access ladder became distracted by moving mooring lines, lost balance and fell onto the gunwale before entering the water. Recovery was achieved without serious injury. The flash highlights continued use of defective access, concentration, stop-work intervention and consideration of quayside conditions in task planning.
- 202525 Sep
Collision between the tender to Isabell Princess of the Sea and the RIB Vega, resulting in one fatality
Investigation of a fatal collision between a yacht tender and the drifting RIB Vega in Göcek harbour. It examines unsafe speed, night visibility, unused chart-plotter information, possible alcohol impairment and unclear command authority. The passenger died from collision injuries and drowning; subsequent actions addressed tender operations, authority and navigation-light compliance.
- 202511 Sep
Man overboard from fishing vessel Kingfisher (DH 110) with the loss of 1 life
This investigation examines a fatal overboard accident during manual creel shooting on Kingfisher. A toggle passed through a loose flotation-device becket, attaching a deckhand to fishing gear that pulled him underwater. It analyses equipment compatibility, uncommunicated snagging hazards, ineffective risk assessments and incomplete training, and records recovery efforts and subsequent safety actions.
- 202518 Jul
Capsize and sinking of fishing vessel Njord with loss of 1 life
Investigation of Njord’s capsize and sinking while processing a large catch, with one crew member drowning. Analysis examines catch loading, downflooding through an open drain valve, vessel modifications and stability-book assumptions. Indicative digital stability modelling supports the findings, alongside examination of flotation protection, liferaft deployment, emergency communications and rescue.
- 202510 Jul
Man overboard from creel fishing vessel Nista (LK121) with loss of 1 life
Investigation of a fatal overboard accident involving Nista’s lone skipper during creel shooting near Luing. Entanglement in the back rope pulled him underwater. The report examines deck layout, personal flotation, alarm access, self-recovery and risk assessment, and discusses outstanding industry recommendations on single-handed fishing safety guidance.
- 202516 May
MSF: Multiple LTIs - Vessel gangway fell from quay causing injuries
Five workers were injured when a container vessel’s gangway moved off the quay; one fell into the water. Tidal movement had positioned the gangway partly over a ladder void. The flash identifies absent supervision, slack hoist wires and faded markings, and presents suggestions on positioning, procedures, checks, signage and correct PPE use.
- 202524 Apr
Person overboard from keelboat LimbItless with loss of 1 life
This investigation examines Elizabeth Wood’s fatal fall overboard from LimbItless off Cowes. The precise fall mechanism remains unknown. It analyses inadequate individual recovery planning, volunteer training, lifejacket suitability and absent safety-boat support, alongside gaps in oversight of charitable sailing activities and subsequent improvements to recovery provision.
- 202510 Apr
Swamping of small commercial vessel Calypso 2 with loss of 2 lives
Investigation of Calypso 2’s swamping in a coastal cove in Anguilla, resulting in two drowning fatalities. The report examines exposure to ground seas, excursion risk assessment, passage planning, flotation-device use and regulatory oversight. It also analyses distress alerting, casualty recovery and medical provision, recommending improvements to vessel management and rescue arrangements.
- 202527 Feb
Grounding and capsize of creel fishing vessel Lexi Rose with loss of 1 life
Investigation into the fatal grounding and capsize of Lexi Rose at Melrose Point. The report examines likely outboard lower-unit impact damage, loss of propulsion in swell, and constraints on single-handed emergency actions. It discusses distress radio use, anchoring limitations and the survival benefits of wearing a personal flotation device.
- 2025
CHIRP Maritime FEEDBACK 79 (Summer 2025)
Six confidential maritime reports examine heavy-weather fatalities, navigational audit findings, lifting entanglement, a pilot boarding fall, obstructed firefighting equipment and exposure to residual acid fumes. Commentary connects operational shortcomings with communication, supervision and safety culture, with separate lessons for seafarers, ship managers and regulators.
- 2025
MAIB Safety Digest 1/2025
A marine safety digest examining merchant, fishing and recreational vessel casualties, including collisions, groundings, fires, capsizes and people entering the water. Case lessons address navigation, mooring, towage, maintenance and emergency preparedness, with detailed discussion of flotation-device entanglement, battery charging, fuel hoses and vessel modifications. Reproduced bulletins and flyers provide further incident-specific learning.
- 20244 Dec
Man overboard from potting vessel Pioneer with loss of 1 life
Investigation of the fatal overboard incident from Pioneer south of Hastings examines low bulwarks, unworn flotation devices, unsuccessful manual recovery and delayed distress communication. The initial fall mechanism remains uncertain. Findings address deficient risk assessment, emergency drills, safety training and fishing-vessel inspection and deficiency close-out arrangements.
- 202424 Oct
Positive: successful rescue of surfer on the open sea
A pilot boat crew rescued a distressed surfer at sea, using a megaphone to establish communication and a man-overboard ramp for boarding. The flash highlights prompt recognition and response, and recommends vigilant watchkeeping, emergency drills, clear communication protocols, safety-equipment checks and monitoring of weather and sea conditions.
- 202417 Oct
Capsize of recreational craft Wheelyboat 123 with the loss of 2 lives
Investigation of Wheelyboat 123’s fatal capsize on Roadford Lake examines bow-ramp leakage, accumulated deck water, loading and wheelchair movement. It assesses maintenance, driver training, risk assessments and unsuitable flotation provision. Physical flotation tests, numerical stability modelling and computational fluid dynamics inform recommendations for safer operation of craft carrying wheelchair users.
- 20243 Oct
Collision between pair trawlers Guiding Light and Guiding Star resulting in Guiding Star flooding and sinking
This investigation examines a collision during pair-trawler fish transfers south-east of Fair Isle, followed by Guiding Star’s flooding and sinking. It analyses unattended navigational controls, undocumented transfer practices, flooding limitations and emergency preparedness. Crew abandonment and recovery succeeded without serious injuries; recommendations address flooding awareness and accessible survival equipment.
- 202425 Sep
Man overboard during motion compensated gangway transfer
An offshore worker fell overboard from a height of one metre when a manually station-kept vessel drifted off and its motion-compensated gangway disconnected. His life-jacket failed to inflate, but he was recovered within 22 seconds. The flash addresses gangway emergency procedures, drift-off familiarisation, flotation-device checks and safety induction.
- 202412 Sep
Fall overboard from sail training vessel Pelican of London with loss of 1 life
MAIB investigates a volunteer relief cook’s fatal fall from Pelican of London’s gangway at Sharpness. It examines ineffective guard ropes, a downward-sloping safety net, deficient risk assessment and informal rigging practices. Alcohol impairment and policies for returning from shore are analysed, with recommendations addressing gangway approval, training and alcohol controls.
- 20245 Sep
Safety warning issued following a man overboard from potting vessel Kingfisher with loss of 1 life
This bulletin presents initial findings after a Kingfisher deckhand was pulled overboard during creel shooting. A creel leg rope threaded through his flotation device’s lifting strop connected him to the backrope. It calls for deck risk assessment reviews and task-appropriate flotation devices, while warning against unauthorised modifications that compromise recovery arrangements.
- 202429 Aug
Non-fatal man overboard: worker fell from height into the sea
During installation of a new jacket, a worker fell into the sea from almost 3 m and was recovered unharmed. Required temporary platform and handrails were absent, but work continued. The flash describes a safety stand down, a request to install the protection, and updates to task documentation.
- 202415 Aug
Flooding and partial sinking of an inflatable migrant boat with the loss of at least 8 lives
Investigation into an inflatable migrant boat’s flooding and partial sinking in the Dover Strait, with at least eight lives lost. It examines poor construction, floor failure of unknown initial cause, cold-water immersion, buoyancy aids and UK search and rescue operations, including weather-limited aerial surveillance and distress reporting.
- 20242 Jul
UK MAIB: Man overboard – unguarded opening
A crew member preparing for berthing overbalanced while swinging a heaving line around a pillar and fell through an unguarded opening. Crew recovered the person using a line; medical assessments found no injury. The flash highlights dynamic risk assessment, stopping unsafe work and subsequent installation of a railing.
- 202420 Jun
Flooding, capsize and sinking of stern trawler Piedras
Investigates the flooding, capsize and sinking of Piedras south-west of Mizen Head. The initial water ingress source remains unknown. Analysis examines unsuccessful pumping, watertight integrity, flood-response preparation and delayed distress signalling, alongside liferaft deployment and servicing deficiencies. All crew were rescued uninjured from the working liferaft.
- 202430 May
2024-01 64 Investigation of March 25, 2022, Hydraulic Workover Unit Failure Fatality
BSEE investigates a fatal hydraulic workover unit collapse at Main Pass Block 64 Platform #19. Severely corroded structural casing buckled after crane support was removed, and a worker tied to the unit was pulled into the water. Findings examine load assessment, Anchor Spool stabilisation, oversized equipment and unclear operator–contractor responsibilities.
- 202425 Apr
Loss of control of powerboat Awesome with loss of 2 lives
MAIB investigates Awesome’s fatal loss of control near Little Thatch Island in the British Virgin Islands. A worn universal joint failed and the flailing drive shaft severed a hydraulic steering hose. The report examines lubrication, stepped-hull behaviour, seating, flotation devices, kill cords and rescue actions. Two occupants drowned; no recommendations were made.
- 20248 Feb
Fall overboard from fishing vessel Eder Sands with loss of 1 life
Investigates a fatal fall overboard during net shooting west of Ireland. The report examines unguarded working positions, undocumented procedures and inadequate risk assessments. Lifejacket trials support the probable loss of a loosely fitted lifejacket. Recommendations address flotation-device suitability, correct wearing, vessel-specific procedures and consideration of personal locator beacons.
- 2024
MAIB Safety Digest 1/2024
This marine accident digest presents lessons from merchant shipping, commercial fishing and recreational craft incidents. Cases examine pilot ladders, navigation, mooring machinery, suspended loads, falls and recovery from the water. Reproduced bulletins and flyers address RIB passenger injuries, dredging-chain failures, fire-extinguishing systems and flotation-device suitability.
- 202327 Nov
Case study: Saturation diver fatality due to hydrogen sulphide
This safety flash summarises a historical saturation-diving fatality during inspection of a leaking sour-crude pipeline in the Bombay High oilfield. Hydrogen sulphide in the bell caused collapse; the diver subsequently drowned. It discusses possible gas-entry routes, absent gas detection, bell-to-bell rescue and the potential use of ROVs for surveys.
- 20239 Nov
Flooding and partial sinking of an inflatable migrant boat with at least 27 lives lost
Investigation into an inflatable migrant boat’s flooding and partial sinking in the Dover Strait, with at least 27 deaths. Examines emergency-call reconciliation, coastguard staffing, cross-border coordination, helicopter and cutter searches, thermal detection limitations and forensic drift modelling. The initial water-ingress cause and exact casualty location remained undetermined.
- 20233 Oct
Unsafe flooring led to man overboard fatality
This flash describes a January 2023 fatality on a jack-up rig in transit, where a missing crew member was understood to have fallen through an opening left by dislodged polymer grating. It calls for checking fastener installation against manufacturer instructions, including loose grating in dropped-object checklists and updating planned maintenance as required.
- 2023Sep
Manage risk of damage to grating systems (walkways and deck areas) on offshore installations during rig moves
This alert addresses damage or displacement of offshore walkway and deck gratings during rig moves, including adverse weather and wave impact. It calls for assessment across operating modes, regular inspection and maintenance, competent personnel, fatigue controls and emergency arrangements for missing persons or people overboard.
- 202329 Jun
Person overboard from stern trawler Copious with loss of 1 life
Investigation of a fatal fall overboard from Copious during a trawl-gear repair on the aft bulwark. It examines inadequate risk assessment, cold-water incapacitation, incorrect lifejacket fit and unsuccessful recovery. Analysis highlights limitations of the Markusnet arrangements and drills for unconscious casualties, alongside subsequent owner actions and regulatory recommendations.
- 202322 Jun
Person overboard from creel fishing vessel Harriet J with loss of 1 life
This investigation examines the fatal overboard accident involving Harriet J’s lone skipper off south-east Scotland. He probably became caught in a chain weight while deploying creels. The report analyses deck segregation, inability to reboard, unworn flotation and locator equipment, cold incapacitation, rescue efforts and dissemination of guidance for lone-operated fishing vessels.
- 202316 May
BSEE: Swing rope transfers
This safety flash relays BSEE accounts of swing rope transfers involving a fractured foot, a shin laceration and a fall into water without injury. BSEE recommends standalone transfer operations, formal risk assessment, stop-work authority, competence assessment and alternatives where practicable. IMCA does not recommend swing ropes.
- 202321 Feb
Extreme Caution Advised During Swing Rope Transfers
This alert reviews offshore swing-rope transfer incidents involving a fractured foot, a shin laceration and a fall into water without injury. BSEE recommends transfer-specific risk assessments, competence assurance and recovery capability checks, alongside verification of transfer systems and locator beacons. Alternative transfer methods, including gangways or elevated structures, are recommended for consideration.
- 2023
CHIRP Fisher Feedback Autumn 2023
CHIRP’s first commercial fishing newsletter examines pot-line propeller fouling, a conveyor fingertip injury, a lone fisher falling overboard, failed trawl hoisting, a ferry collision and recovered unexploded ordnance. Case commentary discusses maintenance isolation, work communication, wire-rope inspection, harbour navigation and personal emergency signalling and self-rescue arrangements.
- 2023
CHIRP Maritime FEEDBACK 72 (Autumn 2023)
This maritime digest examines an averted mooring-line failure, a lithium-ion battery cargo fire, contractor fatigue, a diver’s propeller injury, tanker engine-control difficulties and a fisher’s overboard rescue. It discusses mooring design, dangerous-goods packing, rest arrangements, diver visibility, emergency teamwork and personal rescue equipment, alongside two improper cargo-stowage reports.
- 2023
CHIRP Ports and Harbours Feedback summer 2023
This inaugural ports and harbours digest analyses five reports involving a quayside ladder fall, failed moorings and collisions, ferry traffic conflict, a trapped mooring launch and container-ship grounding. Commentary examines safe access, casualty recovery, bollard capacity, wind loading, navigation aids and communication between port authorities, pilots and vessel crews.
- 2023
MAIB Safety Digest 1/2023
This marine accident digest examines merchant shipping, commercial fishing and recreational boating casualties. Cases address navigation, machinery maintenance, lifting, fires and people overboard. Lessons emphasise clear control indications, practical recovery drills, effective firefighting arrangements and implementation of risk assessments, with reproduced fishing safety flyers discussing personal distress beacons.
- 2023
MAIB Safety Digest 2/2023
A multi-case marine safety digest draws lessons from navigation incidents, fires, falls, cargo lifting, mooring injuries and fishing casualties. Case analyses examine communication, electrical work, lifejacket use and recovery arrangements. Reproduced bulletins and flyers address fuel-hose modifications, liferaft servicing, carbon monoxide poisoning and fatal man-overboard incidents.
- 202216 Dec
Persons overboard from prawn trawler Reul A Chuain with loss of 1 life
Investigates two falls overboard from the prawn trawler Reul A Chuain in the Sound of Rùm, resulting in the skipper’s death. Examines unsecured net stowage, manual recovery in heavy weather, absent restraint arrangements, flotation device use, cold-water survival and improvised winch recovery. Identified risk controls and practical emergency drills had not been implemented.
- 202213 Dec
MAIB: Worker falls between vessel and quay
A shore worker used a stowed gangway despite crew instructions to wait for alternative access as the tide fell. He slipped and fell over 8 m into the sea, sustaining significant injuries. The flash describes his rescue and stresses safe access arrangements and compliance with instructions to visitors.
- 20228 Dec
Commercial stand up paddleboarding accident on river weir with loss of 4 lives
Investigation of a commercial stand up paddleboarding tour in which four people died after becoming trapped in hydraulic towback at Haverfordwest Town Weir. The report examines river conditions, tour preparation, leadership qualifications, participant briefings, flotation and leash arrangements, alongside weir risk assessment, warning signs and rescue measures.
- 202226 Sep
MAIB: Capsize and sinking of fishing vessel Joanna C – vessel stability
This safety flash summarises MAIB findings on Joanna C’s fatal capsize while recovering scallop dredges snagged on a potting line. Through-life modifications had reduced stability, with assessment left unfinished. It also examines the liferaft’s failure to inflate and highlights stability implications of modifications and float-free lifesaving arrangements.
- 202222 Sep
Capsize of single-handed creel fishing vessel Goodway with loss of 1 life
Investigation into Goodway’s unwitnessed capsize near Cairnbulg and the presumed loss of its lone owner. The report identifies freeing snagged creels using engine power as the most likely sequence, examines cold-water survival and reboarding arrangements, and explains why the purchased AIS/DSC personal locator beacon was unsuitable as an EPIRB alternative.
- 2022Sep
CHIRP Maritime FEEDBACK 68 (September 2022)
Maritime incident digest examining unsafe work aloft, a timber-cargo overboard casualty, fatal crane-access falls, engine maintenance, navigation errors, tug capsizing and flooding, hot-fuel burns and an eye injury. Commentary addresses continuous harness connection, rescue planning, towage competence, watertight closures, maintenance programmes and accountability during permitted work.
- 202214 Jul
Man overboard from anchor handler tug
During a grapnel run on an anchor handling tug, a T-bar hook snagged a crew member’s life jacket while chain was being overboarded, leading to a fall into the water. The crew recovered him within three minutes. Lessons address rescue drills, subcontractor oversight, snag-point removal and safer overboarding methods.
- 202222 Jun
Capsize and sinking of scallop dredger Joanna C with loss of 2 lives
Investigation of Joanna C’s fatal capsize south of Newhaven during scallop dredge recovery. It examines stability degraded by modifications, unfinished inclining-experiment analysis and regulatory oversight. Liferaft buoyancy and inflation-force testing explains failed automatic inflation, while survival analysis addresses flotation loss, delayed beacon activation and escape from the sinking vessel.
- 202222 Jun
Capsize and sinking of whelk potter Nicola Faith with loss of 3 lives
Investigation of Nicola Faith’s fatal capsize in Colwyn Bay examines vessel modifications, combined catch and pot loading, and survival arrangements. Stability testing and modelling underpin the conclusion that loading almost certainly caused sudden instability. The report also assesses regulatory gaps, mandatory training, emergency beacons and personal flotation.
- 202216 Jun
Person overboard from single-handed creel fishing vessel Saint Peter with loss of 1 life
Investigates the fatal overboard accident involving Saint Peter’s lone skipper during creel shooting near Torness Point. Probable rope entanglement, cold-water shock and inability to reboard are examined. The report analyses deck separation, flotation, boarding arrangements and distress signalling, finding that the inflated flotation device prevented drowning but did not ensure survival.
- 20225 May
Person overboard from motor cruiser Diamond Emblem 1 with loss of 1 life
Investigates a fatal overboard accident involving a self-drive hire cruiser on the River Bure. Embankment impact threw a passenger into the water, where rope and propeller entanglement caused injuries and drowning. Analysis examines dual-helm controls, labelling, stern protection, handover competence, risk assessment and regulatory oversight.
- 202225 Apr
Toppled Hydraulic Workover Unit Results in Fatality
This preliminary alert describes a fatal hydraulic workover unit toppling on a Gulf of Mexico caisson. An elevated, harnessed contractor fell into the water with part of the unit. Initial observations identified a casing break; causes remained under investigation. Recommendations address structural capacity, support arrangements, fall protection design, supervision and task planning.
- 202218 Apr
Barricades and Fall Protection Will Help Prevent Injuries Even Without Open Holes Visible
This alert describes two incidents involving deteriorated deck grating: a contractor fell into water and another worker partially fell through grating. BSEE recommends that operators and contractors consider barricading suspect areas even without visible holes, using fall arrest equipment, preparing job safety analyses, communicating hazards and invoking stop-work authority.
- 202211 Mar
Non-fatal man overboard incident
A pilot fell into the water while attempting to leave a mooring boat before it was securely moored. He escaped uninjured using an inflated lifejacket and jetty ladder, although the lifejacket was incorrectly secured. The flash addresses safe disembarkation, buddy support, lifejacket fastening and gangway safeguards.
- 2022Feb
CHIRP Maritime FEEDBACK 66 (February 2022)
This maritime incident digest examines accommodation ladder failure, unsafe floating-armoury conditions, personnel falls, defective workboat lifting eyes, berthing errors, a fatal tug-line incident and a hydraulic motor fire. Commentary addresses maintenance, securing arrangements, bridge resource management, mooring briefings, human-centred deck design and collision-avoidance communication.
- 202210 Jan
Hazards When Replacing Grating
This alert describes fatal, man-overboard and near-miss incidents involving compromised grating. It explains how ripping, needle or chisel gunning and removal of anchor welds can reduce load capacity. BSEE recommends considering personnel training, staged replacement procedures and preventative maintenance, stressing that visual judgement cannot establish deteriorated grating’s integrity.
- 2022
MAIB Safety Digest 1/2022
This multi-case marine digest examines collisions, groundings, machinery failures, fires and people entering the water across merchant, fishing and leisure vessels. Lessons address bridge teamwork, maintenance isolation, pilot-ladder securing, risk assessment and emergency preparedness. Reproduced bulletins and flyers discuss vehicle-deck crushing, collision avoidance and fishing-vessel survival.
- 2022
MAIB Safety Digest 2/2022
A collection of marine accident lessons covering merchant ships, fishing vessels and recreational craft. Cases examine groundings, fires, towing and lifting failures, flooding, capsize and people overboard. Reproduced bulletins and flyers discuss blocked CO2 pilot hoses, vessel stability, flotation and distress alerting, alongside navigation, training and equipment checks.
- 202119 Nov
MOB: Person fell into water during gangway installation
A crew member fell into the water while attempting to lift a portable gangway to free another person’s trapped foot, and was recovered without injury. The flash identifies communication failures, tiredness, insufficient staffing and absent risk assessment, recommending toolbox talks, improved bridge–deck coordination and sufficient supervised, rested crew.
- 202128 Oct
Defective embarkation ladder quarantined – a reminder
Routine inspection aboard a vessel in a tropical environment found embarkation ladder rope weak enough to break when pulled by hand. Preliminary causes included inadequate covering, poor inspection culture and seawater and sunlight exposure. The flash recommends careful storage, planned maintenance checks and immediate removal of defective ladders.
- 202115 Oct
Shortened lanyard on MOB beacon
A vessel visitor identified shortened man-overboard beacon lanyards. The flash explains that shortening may prevent activation or leave a person overboard too close to heavy smoke while handling the lifebuoy. It identifies inadequate understanding and inspection, and recommends checking manufacturer-specified lanyard lengths and including beacon checks in planned maintenance.
- 202115 Oct
Unsafe personnel transfer – man overboard
A diver slipped while boarding a pilot boat using a quayside fender. His assisting supervisor also lost balance, and both jumped into the water. Their life-jackets inflated and neither was injured. The flash identifies unsuitable access and unexercised stop-work authority, urging safe access arrangements and renewed emphasis on stopping unsafe work.
- 202114 Oct
Capsize of motor cruiser Norma G with loss of 1 life
Investigation of Norma G’s fatal capsize approaching the Camel Estuary. It examines steep waves over the Doom Bar, navigation limitations, limited buoyancy and cabin entrapment involving inflated lifejackets. The report also analyses rescue and casualty extraction, boating training and harbour guidance, recommending clearer passage information and consideration of a navigation aid.
- 202111 Aug
Wear a life-jacket!! (MAIB)
This safety flash summarises an MAIB inspector’s man overboard experience exercise for the fishing community. It contrasts wave-pool immersion without a lifejacket with improved flotation when wearing one, including correct crotch-strap adjustment. It highlights cold-water incapacitation, ready recovery arrangements, rescue drills and preventing falls overboard.
- 20216 Aug
Sinking of the wooden hulled motorboat Globetrotter with loss of 1 life
Investigation of Globetrotter’s foundering off Fleetwood during a recreational angling trip, with one drowning after anchor-rope entanglement. The report examines poor wooden-hull condition, probable grounding damage, inadequate passage planning and emergency preparedness. It discusses bilge pumping, flotation devices, liferaft provision and rescue difficulties; the exact source of water ingress remained unestablished.
- 202122 Jul
MAIB: fatality during transfer from a workboat to a barge
A fish farm assistant manager was crushed between a moving workboat and a feed barge during transfer onto an access ladder, then fell into the water and drowned. The flash identifies inadequate planning, supervision, risk assessment and emergency preparedness, recommending transfer planning, recovery drills and sufficient trained, experienced crew.
- 202125 May
Crush incident during transfer from workboat Beinn Na Caillich to a feed barge with loss of 1 life
Investigation of a fatal transfer at Ardintoul fish farm, where a worker was crushed between a moving workboat and a feed barge ladder, then drowned after slipping out of his lifejacket. The report examines transfer planning and supervision, crotch straps, recovery preparedness and marine safety management, recommending fleet standards and management expertise.
- 2021Apr
MAIB Safety Digest 1/2021
A marine accident digest presenting separate lessons for merchant shipping, fishing vessels and recreational craft. Cases examine unsafe access, lifting gear, engine fires, navigation, capsize and flooding. Discussions address risk assessment, supervision, casualty recovery, mooring checks and navigation aids. Appendix coverage dates refer specifically to investigations started, rather than incident dates.
- 20214 Mar
Three man overboard fatalities
This safety flash summarises two bulk-carrier incidents involving three fatalities. Waves washed two crew members overboard while they secured mooring ropes; a bosun drowned while rigging a combination pilot ladder in darkness. It highlights absent lifejackets and securing arrangements, an unsuccessful search, and stopping work when in doubt.
- 20218 Feb
Fall from Platform Results in a Fatality
Two employees fell approximately 80 feet into the ocean when a cementitious moisture-barrier layer shattered during platform galley floor repairs; one later died. With its investigation ongoing, BSEE recommends that operators and contractors consider checking similar designs for danger and barricading work areas to restrict access.
- 202119 Jan
Positive: Vessel improvements made following a man overboard incident
Following a non-fatal fall overboard from a tug, a member reviewed bow transfers and introduced removable handrails and refresher training. Subsequent dry-dock modifications created a larger, obstruction-free embarkation platform with improved fendering and hazard markings. Similar tugs were scheduled for modification as they docked over the following 12–18 months.
- 2021
MAIB Safety Digest 2/2021
A collection of merchant, fishing and recreational vessel cases examines navigation errors, mooring hazards, machinery fires, flooding and immersion. Lessons address task planning, supervision, maintenance, enclosed-space precautions and emergency readiness. Appendices list investigations and reports and reproduce provisional guidance on anchor failures during prolonged cruise-ship anchoring.
- 202017 Dec
Capsize and full inversion of self-righting keelboat RS Venture Connect sail number 307 with loss of 1 life
Investigation of a fatal keelboat inversion on Windermere during disability-inclusive sailing. An unsecured retractable weighted keel prevented self-righting, trapping the helmsman beneath the hull. The report examines missing rigging instructions, incomplete risk assessments, lifejacket effects on escape and rescue preparedness, including practical righting exercises and subsequent securing modifications.
- 20206 Dec
Man overboard incident (not fatal)
A rigger fell overboard while sea-fastening oversized spools in port at night, passing through a temporary chain barrier where bulwarks had been removed. Colleagues rescued him unharmed using life buoys and a pilot ladder. The flash highlights rigid edge protection, adequate lighting and alternative protection when permanent safeguards are removed.
- 2020Oct
MAIB Safety Digest 2/2020
A collection of marine accident lessons covering merchant vessels, commercial fishing and recreational craft. Cases examine collisions, grounding, machinery failures, overboard accidents, scalding and fire. Discussions address navigation information, lifejackets, maintenance checks and recovery arrangements. An appended provisional bulletin considers precautions for condensed aerosol fire-extinguishing systems.
- 202021 Sep
Safety Alert 392 - Personnel Transfer Injuries Escalate Over 1-Year Period
BSEE summarises personnel transfer injuries involving baskets and swing ropes between April 2019 and April 2020, alongside near misses and man-overboard incidents. It recommends that operators and contractors consider realistic response drills, communication about dangerous transfer conditions, stop-work training and continued fitness for duty following initial training and certification.
- 20202 Sep
Man overboard from single-handed creel boat May C with loss of 1 life
Investigates the fatal overboard accident involving May C’s lone skipper at Loch Carnan. The unwitnessed fall most likely occurred while clearing propeller fouling. Analysis addresses cold-water incapacitation, the absence of worn flotation and a carried locator beacon, self-rescue arrangements and difficulties recovering an unconscious person.
- 202013 Jul
Double man overboard resulting in one fatality
A tug crew member fell into the water between a tug and barge during preparations to disconnect in worsening weather; a colleague also fell during rescue. One died and the other suffered hypothermia. The flash examines transfer practices, unsuitable rescue arrangements and lifejacket performance, recommending reviews of procedures, risk assessments and drills.
- 202013 Jul
MOB fatality from multi-cat
A chief engineer suffered a fatal man-overboard incident during pipeline recovery from a multi-cat in shallow inshore waters. After the plan changed from compressed-air refloating to crane lifting, an unsecured pontoon struck him. The flash identifies absent change management and risk assessment, inadequate supervision and operations during darkness contrary to instructions.
- 20207 Jul
Capsize of fishing vessel Anna-Marie II with loss of 1 life
MAIB investigates the fatal capsize of Anna-Marie II while crossing the bar at Brora river entrance. The report examines broaching in unusually high waves, insufficient stability, local risk perception and lifejacket non-use. It also analyses rescue efforts and fishing safety training, with no recommendations made.
- 202023 Jun
Man overboard from stinger
An electrician checking a stinger camera on a vessel alongside in port fell about two metres through an opening in the grating into the water. He reached a pre-deployed lifebuoy and was recovered with minor scratches. The flash examines deferred repairs, unverified work controls and failures to reassess unsafe conditions.
- 202022 May
Fall from the quayside into water
A contract worker fell approximately three metres from a quayside into water while slinging a palleted water bag. Substitution of a shorter-reach ROV crane without reassessment placed the load near the edge. The flash describes sling release, loss of balance and self-rescue, emphasising change management, situational awareness and third-party briefings.
- 202020 May
Man overboard from dredger Cherry Sand with loss of 1 life
These annexes bring together maritime medical fitness standards, UK Dredging transfer risk assessments, Cherry Sand’s mooring instructions and a new-joiner induction form. They address eyesight testing, physical capability, boarding unmoored vessels, mooring-line handling and winch operation, with requirements for bridge permission, briefings and protective equipment.
- 2020Apr
MAIB Safety Digest 1/2020
A collection of lessons from accidents involving merchant vessels, fishing boats and recreational craft. Cases examine distracted navigation, grounding, machinery fires, hazardous tank atmospheres, cargo handling and overboard emergencies. Discussions cover passage planning, maintenance, atmospheric testing, lifejacket performance and emergency drills, retaining uncertainty where accident causes remain unresolved.
- 202017 Mar
Marine Safety Forum: Two incidents relating to fast rescue craft
This flash summarises two fast rescue craft incidents: a capsize after a release cable parted and a misunderstood gesture led to bow-line release, and an emergency lowering failure involving a stuck valve arm. Actions address crew communication, launch procedures, release-mechanism checks, maintenance clarity and functional testing.
- 202030 Jan
MAIB: fatal man overboard incident whilst boarding tug
This safety flash summarises MAIB findings on a fatal fall into water while reboarding Millgarth at Tranmere Oil Terminal. Despite automatic lifejacket inflation, cold-water incapacitation prevented crew recovery aboard. It highlights longstanding unsafe access arrangements, unevaluated shared risks and unfamiliarity with man-overboard recovery equipment.
- 202030 Jan
Worker fell into sea from gangway and drowned
A worker lost his balance while boarding a launch boat from a vessel gangway and drowned. The incident remained under investigation. The flash relays WSH recommendations on transfer briefings, physical fitness, favourable conditions, appropriate supervision and personal protective equipment, and points readers towards personnel-transfer guidance.
- 20196 Dec
High potential incident – Man injured while falling overboard (MOB)
A subcontracted employee tripped over a discharge hose at an offshore platform boat landing and fell between the landing and a workboat. He was recovered partially submerged and sustained a fractured wrist. The flash identifies inadequate hose management and unimplemented risk controls, recommending access-route review and consideration of additional trip-hazard controls.
- 20196 Dec
Man overboard – Fall from a pilot ladder
An IT technician boarding a vessel fell into the sea from a pilot ladder after the service boat lurched backwards and the ladder swayed. He was rescued without reported injury and was not wearing a lifejacket. The flash calls for SOLAS-approved lifejackets, separate luggage transfer and crew briefing on stop-work authority.
- 20195 Dec
Fall while boarding tug Millgarth with loss of 1 life
Investigation of a fatal fall while boarding Millgarth at Tranmere Oil Terminal. The chief engineer most likely slipped on a wet fender and died from cardiac arrest due to cold water immersion. The report examines self-mooring, shared access risks, recovery equipment, crew training and unsuccessful rescue attempts.
- 201915 Nov
Man overboard from single-handed creel boat Sea Mist with loss of 1 life
Investigates the fatal overboard accident involving Sea Mist’s lone skipper near Macduff. Fishing gear entanglement pulled him into the water without a personal flotation device. The report examines rope-cut evidence, possible drowning circumstances, cold-water effects and rescue efforts, emphasising separation from fishing gear and improved dissemination of single-handed fishing guidance.