Setting
Marine Waters
Explicit water-column or marine environmental settings.
Newest 100 Documents
All 471 in search- 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.
- 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.
- 202628 Apr
Diver entanglement – uncontrolled equipment in the water column
During shallow-water welding, a diver’s bail-out regulator became entangled in a rope supporting a rubber mat and welding rods. Swell moved the suspended items uncontrollably. A stand-by diver freed him within the planned diving time. The flash highlights loose-rope avoidance, tool positioning and possible use of lockable carabiners.
- 20262 Apr
Foundering of the fishing vessel Freedom II (CN 111)
Investigation of Freedom II’s foundering off western Scotland identifies suction-pipe fatigue failure as the most likely flooding source. It examines overwhelmed and unavailable pumps, progressive flooding, seawater isolation, emergency preparedness and delayed distress alerting. All crew were recovered uninjured; actions already taken led to no new recommendations.
- 202631 Mar
Oil pollution risk management guidance note
Guidance for petroleum titleholders on evaluating oil pollution risks and preparing emergency response arrangements under environmental regulations. It addresses worst-case releases, oil fate and trajectory modelling, ALARP demonstrations, response resources and jurisdictional interfaces, alongside environmental monitoring, personnel competence, exercises and continuing assurance of response readiness.
- 202631 Mar
Source control planning and procedures information paper
This information paper sets out regulatory expectations for offshore loss-of-well-control preparedness across environment plans, well operations management plans and safety cases. It covers capping-stack selection and deployment, relief-well design and dynamic kill analysis, plume modelling, subsea dispersant supply, water-column monitoring, response-time modelling, coordinated operations and readiness exercises.
- 20263 Mar
Towing wire parted
A towing wire failed during barge manoeuvring after earlier snagging damage. Its excessive length for shallow water allowed it to drag along the seabed. The crew continued safely using an alternative wire. Lessons emphasise matching wire length to water depth and stopping to repair damaged equipment before resuming work.
- 2026Mar
PON1 Guidance for Reporting Oil and Offshore Chemical Releases
Guidance sets out PON1 notification requirements for oil and offshore chemical releases during offshore oil and gas activities. It distinguishes releases from intentional discharges, specifies reporting responsibilities, timeframes and portal submission, and explains quantity determination and ongoing updates. Appendices address subsea systems, drainage, produced-water caissons, vessels, flaring and excessive powder venting.
- 202616 Feb
Environmental Alert 001/2026
OPRED clarifies offshore chemical permitting requirements for open and closed systems, including theoretically closed-loop hydraulics. Classification depends on potential discharge to the marine environment, rather than replenishment alone. The alert distinguishes registration and permit obligations, return-to-shore requirements and conditional permission to discharge registered chemicals drained from closed systems.
- 202611 Feb
Collision between the bulk carrier Polesie and the general cargo ship Verity resulting in the sinking of Verity and loss of five lives
Investigation of the German Bight collision between Polesie and Verity, which rapidly sank with five fatalities. It examines incremental collision-avoidance manoeuvres, navigation displays, late vessel traffic service intervention and duplex radio limitations, alongside flooding, search and rescue, and the constraints imposed by absent voyage data recorder evidence.
- 20265 Feb
Collision between the crude oil tanker Apache and the stern trawler Serinah (GH 116)
Investigates the collision of Apache and Serinah in the Firth of Clyde and the trawler’s subsequent flooding and sinking. Examines inadequate avoiding action, watchkeeping competence, navigation equipment, traffic monitoring and assistance after collision. All three fishing crew survived uninjured; recommendations address navigational training and understanding fishing vessel behaviour.
- 2026Feb
Pollution PINCs
This regulatory inspection guide presents pollution compliance questions with cited authorities and enforcement codes. It covers offshore discharges, well solids disposal, contaminant collection, sump operation and pollution inspections. Further checks address spill response equipment testing and monthly inspection, record keeping, and spill containment and drainage on artificial islands.
- 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.
- 202522 Dec
Safety zones and the area to be avoided guidance note
Guidance for commercial fishing vessel owners and operators on entry to offshore safety zones and the Bass Strait Area to Be Avoided. It explains consent and authorisation routes, statutory offences and maximum penalties, and provides a decision flowchart addressing vessel exemptions, registration, flag, dimensions and operational purpose.
- 202517 Dec
Capsize and foundering of the prawn trawler Odyssey (FR 70)
Investigation of Odyssey’s capsize during net recovery in the North Sea. Wash water accumulated on the shelter deck, with a tonnage valve likely obstructed, causing loss of stability. Stability modelling, pump controls, drainage arrangements and emergency preparedness are examined. All six crew abandoned to a liferaft and were rescued uninjured.
- 202510 Dec
Application of oil spill modelling in Environment Plans
Information paper on applying stochastic and deterministic oil spill modelling in offshore petroleum Environment Plans. It discusses input quality, non-mandatory exposure values for four oil phases, environmental consequence evaluation, response resources and monitoring preparedness. It distinguishes combined stochastic boundaries from individual spill footprints and addresses uncertainty and presentation of results.
- 2025Nov
CHIRP Maritime FEEDBACK 81
Six confidential maritime reports examine a pilot’s fall, unsafe ladder rigging, illegal waste disposal, congested harbour operations involving an uncrewed vessel, a yacht–ferry close-quarters encounter and management intimidation. Commentary discusses transfer procedures, collision avoidance, competence assurance, reporting protections and the influence of leadership on safety and environmental compliance.
- 202516 Oct
Fatal injury to a recreational diver following contact with the motor vessel Karin operating as a recreational dive support vessel
Investigates a recreational diver’s fatal propeller strike during a drift decompression stop in Scapa Flow. Examines Karin’s obstructed forward visibility, ineffective lookout, marker-buoy attachment, vessel coordination and absent documented safety arrangements. Recommendations address harbour oversight, while the annexed bulletin discusses safe vessel separation and hand-held marker-buoy lines.
- 20252 Oct
Grounding and subsequent loss of the dive support vessel Jean Elaine
Investigation of Jean Elaine’s grounding and subsequent loss in Saint Peter’s Pool, Orkney, during scientific diving support. It examines inadequate passage planning, reliance on an unapproved tablet navigation application, ineffective coordination and unchecked certification. Poor hull condition likely contributed to failure after grounding; university and project procedures were subsequently revised.
- 20251 Sep
Acoustic impact evaluation and management information paper
This information paper advises on assessing and managing marine seismic survey effects on environmental receptors. It addresses acoustic source descriptions, sound propagation modelling, biological thresholds, cumulative effects and uncertainty. Guidance covers receptor-specific acceptability, alternative survey methods, fauna detection, model validation and adaptive management, while distinguishing encouraged advice from regulatory requirements.
- 202522 Aug
Petroleum activities and Australian Marine Parks guidance note
Guidance explains environmental assessment, authorisation and consultation requirements for petroleum activities affecting Australian Marine Parks. It addresses park zoning, Director of National Parks consultation, acceptable impacts and ALARP demonstrations, cumulative effects, environmental performance and incident notification. Appended questions clarify class approvals, separate permissions and prior usage rights.
- 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.
- 20253 Jul
Grounding and subsequent loss of the prawn trawler Sustain
Investigation into Sustain’s grounding in Loch Broom and subsequent constructive total loss. It examines the skipper’s accumulated sleep debt, overnight repairs, lone watchkeeping and navigation by eye using a magnetic-compass autopilot. Unimplemented risk controls, absent watch alarms and inadequate passage planning are analysed; the crew were evacuated unharmed.
- 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 80 (Autumn 2025)
This maritime incident digest examines unsafe pilot transfers, an obstructed escape hatch, incorrect antenna labelling, pest infestation and unsafe fumigation, an unmanned survey vessel capsize, and an enclosed-space inspection injury. Commentary emphasises practical design validation, operational limits, crew welfare and confirmed communication between teams.
- 2025
SAC Underwater Noise Regulators Working Group Progress Report 2025
Annual review of regulators’ management of impulsive underwater noise in harbour porpoise protected areas during 2025. It describes the shared noise tracker, pre-season predictions, development coordination and twice-weekly scheduling calls. Southern North Sea summer disturbance remained within thresholds; registry improvements, deterrent-range revisions and international initiatives are also covered.
- 2024Dec
Environmental Compliance
An environmental compliance checklist links inspection questions to regulatory authorities and enforcement actions. It covers marine debris, air and water quality, archaeological resources, artificial reefs, marine ecology, protected species and seafloor clearance, checking compliance with lease conditions, approved plans, permits and bureau instructions.
- 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.
- 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.
- 20241 Aug
Capsize and sinking of fishing vessel Angelena
Investigation of Angelena’s capsize and sinking during single-handed catch recovery off Exmouth. It examines excessive suspended net loading, low fuel levels, vessel modifications and absent stability testing. The report also analyses crewing assumptions in risk assessments, stability training and lifesaving arrangements that helped the uninjured skipper survive.
- 202422 May
Grounding of roll-on/roll-off passenger ferry Alfred
Investigation of Alfred’s grounding at Swona Island on 5 July 2022, which injured 41 people. The master almost certainly fell asleep while steering close inshore. Analysis examines passage planning, ECDIS use, bridge staffing, fatigue management, emergency response and vehicle securing, alongside shortcomings in audits and surveys.
- 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.
- 202427 Mar
USCG: hazard from discarded munitions
This flash relays a US Coastguard alert about discarded munitions in coastal waters. A clamming-vessel deckhand suffered severe burns after a canister, likely containing mustard gas or another blistering agent, came aboard. Recommendations cover checking charts, avoiding marked dumping areas, recording encounters and reporting unexploded munitions.
- 202410 Jan
Australian dispersant acceptance processes information paper
This information paper compares chemical dispersant acceptance for maritime and offshore petroleum spill response in Australian Commonwealth waters. It explains AMSA product registration and incident-specific approval, alongside NOPSEMA acceptance through environment plans. It discusses surface and subsea application, environmental trade-offs, and activity-specific efficacy and toxicity evaluation.
- 202410 Jan
Considerations for five-year environment plan revisions
This information paper advises petroleum titleholders preparing five-year environment plan revisions for long-term offshore activities. It addresses legislative changes, activity scope, subsea maintenance and decommissioning, spill prevention and response, emissions reduction, consultation and environmental monitoring. It explains expectations for demonstrating ALARP, acceptable impacts and measurable environmental performance.
- 202410 Jan
Consultation on offshore petroleum environment plans brochure
Community guidance explains consultation on offshore petroleum environment plans, including who qualifies as a relevant person, representative bodies’ roles and opportunities for public comment. It outlines information and response-time requirements, how concerns inform NOPSEMA’s assessment, confidentiality rights, and the distinction between consultation and consent.
- 202410 Jan
Offshore project proposal content requirements guidance note
NOPSEMA guidance explains content requirements for offshore petroleum project proposals, including project descriptions, alternatives analysis, cumulative environmental effects and acceptable impact levels. It addresses decommissioning, environmental performance outcomes, mandatory public comment and acceptance criteria, linking whole-project authorisation to subsequent activity environment plans and their monitoring requirements.
- 202410 Jan
Operational and scientific monitoring programs information paper
Information paper on designing and implementing monitoring after offshore petroleum spills, with emphasis on scientific assessment and environmental baselines. It addresses impact and reference sites, indicator selection, contaminant bioavailability, statistical design, analytical quality assurance, mobilisation readiness and monitoring triggers. Appendices examine ecological receptors, toxicity testing and source fingerprinting.
- 2024
SAC Noise Management Regulators Working Group Progress Report 2024
Reviews regulators’ work during 2024 to manage impulsive underwater noise in harbour porpoise Special Areas of Conservation. It describes developer coordination, Marine Noise Registry upgrades, quieter unexploded ordnance clearance, piling noise reduction and proposed limits. Summer analysis for the Southern North Sea indicates disturbance remained below daily and seasonal thresholds.
- 202319 Dec
NOPSEMA and OIR Research Strategy 2024-2027
This strategy identifies collaborative research priorities for environmental management of offshore energy projects. It addresses cumulative impacts, underwater noise, fauna detection, emissions, decommissioning and geological carbon storage. Priorities include seabed remediation, standardised bird monitoring and renewable-energy mitigation research, while distinguishing the regulator’s research end-user role from conducting or funding research.
- 202314 Dec
Heavy contact between the high-speed passenger craft Seadogz and a navigation buoy with loss of 1 life
Investigation of Seadogz’s fatal collision with a navigation buoy in Southampton Water. It examines skipper workload and visibility, chart plotter accessibility, passenger seating and handhold protection, lifejacket effectiveness, and operator oversight. Recommendations address passenger protection, inconsistent regulatory guidance and port assessment of high-speed commercial passenger operations.
- 202330 Nov
Grounding of general cargo vessel BBC Marmara
Investigation of BBC Marmara’s grounding at Eilean Trodday examines a sleeping watch officer, alcohol consumption, absent lookout and disabled bridge watch alarm. It analyses electronic passage planning, ineffective shipboard management and falsified records, alongside distracted coastguard monitoring. Recommendations address crew resources and coastguard cognitive performance.
- 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.
- 20238 Sep
Collision between cargo vessel Scot Carrier and split hopper barge Karin Høj with loss of 2 lives
Investigation of Scot Carrier’s collision with Karin Høj in the Baltic Sea, followed by the barge’s capsize, its master’s death and the mate’s presumed death. It examines distracted watchkeeping, alcohol consumption, absent lookouts, disabled navigation warnings, rescue delays and weaknesses in company oversight, while acknowledging uncertainty about the barge crew’s actions.
- 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.
- 202319 May
Environmental Alert 002/2023
OPRED clarifies reporting of oil discharged to sea when produced-water permit limits are exceeded. Worked calculations distinguish excess oil mass from total discharge for average-concentration and load breaches. The alert also explains maximum-concentration reporting, retains total-discharge reporting through EEMS, and announces planned IRS guidance and calculation updates.
- 2023May
SAC Noise Management Working Group Communications (May 2023)
A regulator update on managing underwater noise in harbour porpoise Special Areas of Conservation. It describes low-order unexploded ordnance disposal, licensing coordination, offshore wind piling standards and improvements to the Marine Noise Registry. Workshop proposals and voluntary activity forecasts seek to improve disturbance assessments and coordination between developers.
- 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.
- 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.
- 202223 Nov
MAIB: Flooding and sinking of the survey workboat Bella
This safety flash summarises MAIB findings on Bella’s sinking during hydrographic surveying near Lynmouth. Survey equipment modifications reduced forward freeboard, while inadequate buoyancy allowed swamping to overwhelm the boat. It highlights certification and safety-management shortcomings, alongside the crew’s successful abandonment using personal flotation devices and a life raft.
- 20221 Nov
Hydraulic Oil Leak to Sea from Downline Fitting
During decommissioning with a diamond wire saw, 100 litres of hydraulic oil escaped to sea through a slack BSP downline fitting. Tightness checks had been omitted because the checklist prompted only visual inspection. Actions included physical tightness checks, checklist revision, additional fitting supports and removal of the hydraulic hose bight following feasibility review.
- 20222 Sep
Flooding and sinking of survey workboat Bella
Investigation into Bella’s flooding and sinking during hydrographic surveying near Lynmouth. Survey equipment modifications reduced forward freeboard, while inadequate buoyancy and non-watertight openings allowed progressive flooding. The report examines deficient commercial certification and safety management, records the crew’s safe abandonment and rescue, and recommends improved certification guidance and vessel safety management.
- 2022Sep
Operations Notice 84 - SCR2015 and SCR2005: The Dual Regime, Differences in Terminology and Interpretation, and Impact on Guidance Material
Explains the parallel offshore safety-case regimes for UK external and internal waters. It distinguishes major-accident definitions, safety and environmental critical elements, management systems and emergency plans under SCR2015 and SCR2005, and explains how duty holders should interpret existing guidance while terminology is reviewed.
- 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.
- 2022Jun
OPEP Guidance - Rev 7 - June 2022
Guidance for preparing and obtaining approval for oil pollution emergency plans covering offshore oil and gas operations and oil handling facilities. It specifies plan interfaces, worst-case spill modelling, response resources, training and exercises, pollution notification, sea-surface sampling, dispersant decisions, shoreline protection and arrangements for government involvement.
- 202217 Feb
Collision between rigid inflatable boat Rib Tickler and a personal watercraft with loss of 1 life
Investigates a fatal collision in the Menai Strait involving Rib Tickler and a personal watercraft jumping its wake. Examines lookout, separation, helm experience and supervision, alongside local navigation risk assessment and personal watercraft legislation. Discusses training gaps and recommendations concerning guidance, harbour powers and maritime-team resources.
- 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.
- 20213 Dec
Collision between prawn trawler Achieve and general cargo vessel Talis and subsequent sinking of Achieve
Investigates the collision of Achieve and Talis in fog off Tynemouth and Achieve’s subsequent sinking under tow. Examines unattended and distracted watchkeeping, radar detection, reliance on AIS, omitted fog signals and delayed avoiding action. Reviews flooding response and rescue, recommending proper-lookout procedures and reminders of collision-regulation obligations.
- 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.
- 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.
- 202130 Jul
MAIB: Grounding of general cargo vessel Kaami
This safety flash summarises MAIB findings on Kaami’s grounding in Scotland’s Little Minch. It highlights shortcomings in voyage planning, passage monitoring, ECDIS training and safety management safeguards. Recommendations address watchkeeper numbers to minimise fatigue hazards, guidance on ECDIS and bridge lookouts, and internal navigation audits. No injuries or pollution occurred.
- 20212 Jun
Grounding of general cargo vessel Kaami
Investigates Kaami’s grounding on Sgeir Graidach in the Little Minch, which caused extensive hull damage without injuries. Examines incomplete voyage planning, inappropriate electronic chart scales, disabled ECDIS safeguards, ineffective lookout integration and probable fatigue. Recommendations address second-navigator checks, navigational auditing and competence assurance.
- 20212 Jun
LTI: Hand injury during diving operations
A diver suffered a serious finger injury while two divers unbolted a floating hose flange at a single point mooring. An impact wrench was started before the colleague was ready, causing his flogging spanner to trap three fingers. The flash highlights communication, risk assessment, tool positioning and consideration of alternative tools or methods.
- 202120 May
Collision between the high speed passenger craft Seadogz and a navigation buoy with loss of 1 life
MAIB’s interim investigation examines Seadogz’s fatal collision with a navigation buoy in Southampton Water during a high-speed passenger excursion. Initial findings address the skipper’s attention, close passes, wake crossing and passenger expectations. Operators are recommended to review risk assessments against the voluntary industry code and document measures where compliance is not possible.
- 202120 May
MAIB: Anchor failures
This safety flash summarises MAIB findings on cruise-ship anchor losses during prolonged anchoring off the UK’s south coast. It highlights cautious operational limits, timely weighing of anchors, sheltering from forecast strong winds, varying cable scope, checking windlass brakes, contingency planning and assessment before equipment returns to normal service.
- 202130 Mar
Safety warning about multiple cruise ship anchor failures
MAIB examines multiple cruise ship anchor failures during prolonged anchoring off the UK south coast. Findings highlight accelerated wear and operation beyond anchoring system design limits. Safety lessons address cautious weather limits, rotating anchors, varying cable scope, brake checks, contingency planning and assessment of equipment suitability.
- 2021Mar
FAO – their role in international fishing safety standards 28.03.2021
This maritime insight article explains FAO’s contribution to international fishing safety standards, decent working conditions and small-scale fisher training. It discusses revised global fatality estimates, limitations in accident reporting, practical radio and GPS drills, and collaboration to develop fisheries accident and fatality data systems.
- 202124 Feb
Failure to Follow Procedures Results in Pollution Incidents
BSEE describes two Gulf of Mexico pollution incidents involving open valves during well workover and synthetic-based mud transfer. The second investigation remained ongoing, with preliminary findings indicating procedural non-compliance. Recommendations address flow-path understanding, valve labelling, physical verification before start-up, defined responsibilities and lockout/tagout barriers for overboard mud-system components.
- 2021Feb
SNS RWG Communications (February 2021)
The Southern North Sea Regulatory Working Group outlines challenges in reconciling energy development with harbour porpoise conservation. It discusses potential cross-sector application windows, scientific uncertainties about underwater sound, a funded Strategic Advisory Group and an activity tracker supporting cumulative impact assessment and coordination between developers.
- 202128 Jan
Collision between motor yachts Minx and Vision with loss of 1 life
Investigation of a fatal collision near Cannes when Vision attempted a high-speed close pass of anchored Minx. The report examines surface-drive hydrodynamics, charterer influence, likely cannabis-related impairment and missing commercial qualification endorsement. It recommends wider dissemination of safety lessons to commercial motor yacht owners and operators.
- 20214 Jan
NTSB: Flooding, sinking and loss of tugboat Mangilao
This safety flash summarises NTSB findings on a tugboat sinking during tow from Guam to Subic Bay. The investigation identified loss of a towline shackle pin as the probable cause of towing arrangement failure, leaving the vessel adrift and admitting boarding seas during a developing typhoon. No lives were lost.
- 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.
- 202015 Jul
Near miss between ro-ro ferry Stena Superfast VII and Royal Navy submarine
This investigation examines a North Channel near miss between Stena Superfast VII and a submerged Royal Navy submarine. It analyses inaccurate range and speed assessments, periscope watchkeeping supervision, electronic contact information and cancellation of a close quarters procedure. Reported actions address simulator training, procedural adherence and risk assessment.
- 2020Jun
Final Consultation Report June 2020
Consultation report examining the evidence behind underwater-noise management guidance for harbour porpoise Special Areas of Conservation. It addresses seasonal disturbance thresholds, effective deterrent ranges, seismic surveys, piling, noise abatement and monitoring. Appended stakeholder submissions dispute assumptions and implementation arrangements, while the authors explain revised advice and remaining scientific uncertainties.
- 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.
- 202016 Jan
Loss of cargo containers overboard from container ship CMA CGM G. Washington
This investigation examines the loss of 137 containers from CMA CGM G. Washington in the North Pacific. Parametric rolling was assessed as almost certain. Analysis addresses container strength, twistlocks and lashings, loading-computer limits, verified gross mass and ineffective use of motion decision support, with recommendations concerning software approval and cargo planning.
- 201917 Dec
Unknown floating objects in 500m safety zone
A fast rescue craft sustained propeller damage while removing or towing unidentified floating objects from an installation’s 500 m safety zone. The flash recommends assessing hazards before intervention, reporting potentially hazardous objects to emergency response services, following relevant agreements and maintaining crew vigilance for floating objects.
- 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.
- 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.
- 201912 Nov
Grounding of bulk carrier Kuzma Minin at Falmouth
This flash summarises Kuzma Minin’s grounding in Falmouth Bay after its anchor dragged in strong winds. Anchor fouling interrupted attempts to put to sea. Financial constraints influenced the decision to remain anchored, while absent P&I insurance hindered salvage arrangements. Lessons emphasise adequate vessel resources and insurance.
- 201927 Jun
Man overboard from potter Fram of Shieldaig with loss of 1 life
This investigation examines a deckhand’s fatal entry into Loch Torridon from Fram of Shieldaig’s tender. The unwitnessed fall probably occurred while securing the tender alongside. It analyses lifejacket non-use, cold-water immersion, alcohol impairment and difficulties recovering an unconscious casualty, alongside incomplete risk assessments and absent regular emergency drills.
- 201919 Jun
Man overboard from commercially operated yacht CV30 with loss of 1 life
Investigates the fatal loss of Simon Speirs during headsail lowering aboard CV30 in the Southern Ocean. His tether hook snagged beneath a mooring cleat, distorted under lateral loading and released. The report examines recovery difficulties, jackstay arrangements, guardrail integrity, training, supervision, fatigue and gaps in tether testing standards.
- 201929 May
Capsize and sinking of prawn trawler Nancy Glen with loss of 2 lives
Investigation of Nancy Glen’s fatal capsize in Lower Loch Fyne examines trawl loading during a turn and stability reduced by cumulative modifications, including a heavier crane and relocated tanks. Underwater surveys, laser scanning and inclining trials informed the analysis. Recommendations address regular, comparable stability checks for small fishing vessels.
- 201924 Apr
Capsize of fishing vessel Laura Jane with loss of 1 life
Investigation of Laura Jane’s fatal capsize in Plymouth Sound. Fishing-gear loading submerged freeing ports, allowing water to accumulate aft and destabilise the vessel. The report examines freeboard, roll and heel testing, inspection shortcomings, stability training and the delayed extraction of the skipper from the wheelhouse.
- 2019Apr
MAIB Safety Digest 1/2019
A marine accident digest examining merchant, fishing and recreational vessel casualties. Cases address collisions, groundings, mooring equipment failures, fires, flooding and fatal water-entry accidents. Lessons discuss passage planning, equipment testing, alarm accuracy, emergency arrangements and risk assessment. A reproduced bulletin examines oxygen deficiency during refrigerated salt-water tank entry.
- 201928 Mar
Collision between ro-ro passenger ferry Red Falcon and motor cruiser Phoenix
Investigation of a collision between Red Falcon and Phoenix in Southampton’s Thorn Channel. It examines visual lookout, sun glare, seated bridge positions, radar monitoring and the cruiser owner’s awareness of approaching traffic. Phoenix sustained serious damage without injuries. The ferry operator took watchkeeping improvement measures; MAIB made no recommendations.
- 201812 Nov
Marine seismic surveys - November 2018
This factsheet explains marine seismic surveying using compressed-air acoustic sources and hydrophone streamers, distinguishing 2D, 3D and repeated 4D methods. It outlines potential effects on marine species, environmental assessment and possible acoustic mitigation measures, alongside NOPSEMA’s assessment of environment plans before proposed surveys can proceed.
- 201817 Aug
Oil spill dispersants at a glance - July 2018
This information sheet explains how chemical dispersants support oil spill response through surface or subsea application. It outlines environmental trade-offs, the need to demonstrate a net environmental benefit, and NOPSEMA’s assessment of oil pollution emergency plans. Timely deployment within the limited effectiveness window is a central planning requirement.
- 201817 Aug
Oil spill response strategies at a glance - July 2018
This information sheet outlines oil spill response options for petroleum companies, including source control, surveillance, chemical dispersants, containment and recovery, and in-situ burning. It also covers shoreline and inland-water response, waste planning, wildlife rehabilitation, environmental monitoring and remediation, emphasising that techniques are not suitable for every spill scenario.
- 2018Aug
Update on Marine Planning in the UK - Guidance Note to Operators - Offshore Oil and Gas Sector Aug 2018
Guidance for offshore oil and gas operators summarises marine planning developments across the UK as at August 2018. It explains how adopted plans should be considered in environmental applications, including proportionate assessment of relevant policies, PETS declarations and supporting information, while distinguishing expectations for draft and non-statutory plans.
- 20189 Jul
Man overboard: personnel transfers by swing rope and personnel basket
This flash summarises BSEE findings on swing-rope and personnel-basket transfers, including a Gulf of Mexico fall into the sea followed by swift recovery and an elbow injury requiring surgery. Recommendations address hardware inspection and testing, alert review, conditions and stop-work authority, with consideration of fitness-for-duty requirements.
- 20189 Jul
Oil spill response arrangements - July 2018
This information sheet explains oil spill response responsibilities for petroleum activities in Australian Commonwealth waters. It describes NOPSEMA’s assessment of response plans, inspection of capability and regulatory intervention, alongside companies’ obligations to implement agreed arrangements, secure supporting resources and fund the full response.
- 2018Jun
Methodology for the Sampling and Analysis of Produced Water and other Hydrocarbon Discharges
Technical guidance for sampling and analysing produced water and other offshore hydrocarbon discharges. It describes BEIS infrared and Triple Peak methods, the OSPAR GC-FID reference method, sample preservation, calibration and correlation requirements. Separate procedures cover oil on solids, bi-annual component analysis, online monitor validation and environmental reporting.
- 201823 May
Flooding and sinking of stern trawler Ocean Way
Investigation of Ocean Way’s foundering near Lerwick following flooding almost certainly caused by a trawl door striking the hull. It examines inaccessible damage, inadequate aft-compartment drainage, blocked pump strainers, watertight integrity and emergency preparedness. Escape-hatch submergence caused overwhelming downflooding; everyone who entered the water was rescued.