Equipment
Pumps
Pumps and their operation, failure, integrity or safety arrangements.
Newest 100 Documents
All 358 in search- 202610 Aug
United States Steel Corporation Clairton Plant Coke Oven Explosion
Investigates the fatal Clairton coke works explosion during high-pressure water washing of a cast-iron isolation valve. Overpressurisation caused valve failure and a coke oven gas release. The report examines maintenance procedures, hazard assessment, occupied-building siting and process safety governance, supported by valve examination and causal analysis.
- 20261 Jul
Mechanical Failure of LACT Pump Caused Fire
An offshore production facility fire followed LACT charge-pump misalignment after motor replacement. Excessive vibration loosened casing fasteners, allowing oil leakage; coupling failure caused further damage. The alert identifies omitted angular alignment and incorrect bolt torques, and recommends manufacturer-compliant installation, personnel training, review of post-installation surveillance and investigation of abnormal operation.
- 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
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.
- 2026Mar
Production PINCs
Numbered regulatory inspection questions address production safety systems, well barriers and casing-pressure diagnostics. Checks cover shutdown valve operation, gas and fire detection calibration, firewater pumps, pressure relief and protective devices on process equipment. Conditional approval requirements and specified testing intervals support inspection of production facilities and subsea components.
- 20266 Feb
BSEE Safety Alert 514 - Verify Megger Testing and Termination Prep to Prevent Seawater Pump Motor Fires
A seawater pump motor fire followed termination repairs. Findings identified insulation testing at a lower voltage than required, resistance below the work-pack threshold and inadequate semiconductor-layer preparation. BSEE recommends considering adherence to repair instructions, verification of test arrangements and results, correctly rated testers and worker understanding of resistance units.
- 202629 Jan
Flooding and foundering of stern trawler Opportune (LK 209)
Investigation of Opportune’s foundering east of Lerwick following uncontrolled engine-room flooding. Seawater pipework failure was considered the most likely cause, but remained unconfirmed. The report examines pipework inspection, inaccessible sea inlet valves, lack of remote bilge-pump operation and flood preparedness. All eight crew were rescued uninjured from liferafts.
- 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.
- 202517 Nov
Broken equipment repaired or replaced
Five cases describe defects affecting a dock firefighting pump, immersion suit zip, emergency exit handle, ventilation flap seals and lifejacket storage box hinges. Repairs, replacement and additional inspection arrangements restored readiness. The flash highlights potentially serious cumulative consequences of minor defects and suggests considering regular checks of safety equipment details.
- 202517 Sep
Uncoordinated Emergency Shutdown due to pipe failure
A tanker cargo discharge stopped when a duty AB activated emergency shutdown after observing a minor leak, without coordinating with the cargo control room. Copper tubing had failed through vibration fatigue. The flash describes revised shutdown procedures, coordination training and periodic vibration risk assessments, with tubing dampers or supports under consideration.
- 2025Jul
Hydrocarbon Active Fire Protection
An inspection guide for offshore hydrocarbon fire protection, setting out regulatory expectations, success criteria and dutyholder scoring. It examines firewater pumps, ring mains, deluge coverage and chemical dosing, with emphasis on corrosion, marine growth, system availability, as-found testing and investigation of recurring blockages.
- 202526 Feb
Contact with pier by paddle steamer Waverley
Investigation of Waverley’s contact with Brodick pier on 3 September 2020, injuring 24 passengers and crew. Engine dead centre delayed astern propulsion. The report examines piston valve securing, lost engineering expertise, informal training and unassessed closed-end berthing risks. It records subsequent maintenance and operational changes, with no recommendations made.
- 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.
- 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.
- 202427 Mar
Loss of heading control on an FPU during diving operations
A floating production unit lost heading control during diving operations when a steering pump failed to start automatically during greasing. Only one thruster was available. Divers were recovered safely. The flash examines maintenance coordination, work permits, risk assessment and communication, and calls for changes to the company SIMOPS matrix.
- 202326 Dec
Wendland 1H Well Fatal Explosion
CSB investigates a fatal blowout and fire during tubing-head replacement at a Texas oil and gas well. It analyses inadequate well-control planning, ineffective hydrostatic and valve barriers, and ignition-source management. Recommendations address workover methods for underpressured reservoirs, well-history review and gaps in industry guidance and federal regulation.
- 202321 Dec
KMCO LLC Fatal Fire and Explosion
Investigation of the fatal isobutylene explosion and fire at KMCO’s Crosby facility. Metallurgical testing established pressure-driven brittle fracture of a cast-iron y-strainer. The report examines thermal-expansion hazards, manual versus remote isolation, emergency-response roles and alarm use, identifying weaknesses in hazard evaluation and response that contributed to the incident and its severity.
- 20236 Jul
Intercontinental Terminals Company (ITC) Tank Fire
Investigation of the March 2019 tank-farm fire at ITC’s Deer Park terminal, following a circulation-pump seal failure and butane-enriched naphtha release. The report examines pump maintenance, gas detection, emergency isolation, fire spread, containment failure and regulatory exemptions, with recommendations addressing mechanical integrity, tank-farm design and process safety management.
- 202324 Apr
Bio Lab Conyers Chemical Release
Investigation of Hurricane Laura damage, chemical decomposition, chlorine release and fire at Bio-Lab’s Louisiana facility. It examines hurricane preparedness, process hazard analysis, structural damage, fire-water reliability and regulatory coverage of reactive chemicals. Appendices analyse separate Conyers decomposition events and provide structural and fire-protection consultant reviews.
- 202324 Apr
Bio-Lab Lake Charles Chemical Fire and Release
Investigation of hurricane-related chemical decomposition, fire and chlorine release at Bio-Lab’s Louisiana manufacturing facility. It examines building resilience, process hazard analysis follow-through, deficient fire protection and emergency equipment readiness, alongside gaps in reactive-hazard regulation. Appendices include structural and fire-code assessments and separate Conyers decomposition incidents.
- 2023Jan
Hydrogen Sulfide Release
This fatality alert describes hydrogen sulphide poisoning that killed a worker responding to a pump alarm and, later, his spouse at an oil production facility. It examines defective gas detection, missing detector-use policies, inadequate isolation arrangements and visitor access, alongside recommendations for lockout/tagout, ventilation assessment and detection-system assurance.
- 2023
Standards for offshore helicopter landing areas (Version 9.1, 7 January 2026; publisher status Current)
Sets criteria for offshore helicopter landing areas on installations and vessels, alongside wind-turbine winching arrangements. Covers structural loading, obstacle protection, surface friction testing, lighting, motion monitoring, meteorological reporting, rescue and fire-fighting, fuel-system design and maintenance, and passenger preparation. The January 2026 amendment introduces arrangements for temporary safety-critical equipment unserviceability.
- 202211 Oct
Philadelphia Energy Solutions (PES) Refinery Fire and Explosions
Investigates the PES refinery fire and explosions following corrosion-induced rupture of an elbow in its hydrofluoric acid alkylation unit. Examines material composition, inspection coverage, vessel failure, unavailable remote isolation and impaired water-spray mitigation. Contrasts successful rapid acid deinventory with failed safeguards and assesses alternative alkylation technologies and regulatory recommendations.
- 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
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.
- 20229 Feb
Flooding, capsize and sinking of prawn trawler Diamond D
Investigation of Diamond D’s flooding, capsize and sinking near Tynemouth on 16 August 2020. Hull damage from trawl doors was considered almost certain. The report examines crossed towing wires, reduced manning, unnoticed bilge alarms, pumping limitations and absent watertight subdivision, alongside liferaft abandonment and the successful rescue of both crew.
- 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.
- 202228 Jan
Engine room fire on a ferry
This flash examines a ferry engine-room fire involving thermal oil circulation pump bearing failures and ineffective water-mist suppression. It describes loss of power and propulsion, successful CO2 extinguishment, and lessons on emergency supplies, contingency planning, management of change, thermal imaging and the risk of reignition after re-entry.
- 2022
CHIRP Annual Digest 2022
A compilation of maritime cases published during 2022, with commentary and supporting insight articles. Reports examine navigation, pilot boarding, mooring, towing, engineering maintenance and working conditions. Discussions address communication, bridge-team challenge, pressurised equipment, harness arrangements, risk assessment, permits and training, alongside examples of unsafe practice and effective intervention.
- 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.
- 20219 Sep
Immobilisation and flooding of dredger Shearwater following repeated collisions with unmanned barge Agem One
Investigation of Shearwater’s immobilisation and flooding near Kinlochbervie while towing Agem One. Towline fouling disabled propulsion, and repeated barge collisions breached the hull. The report examines towing suitability, crew competence, passage planning, HMPE tow arrangements, bilge pumping and regulatory oversight. The initial towline failure’s precise cause remained undetermined.
- 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.
- 202121 May
Aghorn Operating Inc. Waterflood Station Hydrogen Sulfide Release
This investigation summary examines a fatal hydrogen sulphide release at an Odessa waterflood station that killed an employee and his spouse. It identifies a broken pump plunger, while leaving failure timing unresolved, and examines detector nonuse, missing lockout procedures, inadequate ventilation, detection and alarm failures, and deficient site security.
- 20218 Apr
Flooding and sinking of trawler Ocean Quest
Investigation of Ocean Quest’s loss following uncontrolled engine-room flooding. The source remained undetermined, but shell plating or weld failure beneath the main engine was considered almost certain. Analysis examines hull survey limitations, reduced bilge-pump effectiveness with partly open sea suctions, unusable borrowed pumps and successful crew abandonment following regular drills.
- 202119 Jan
Near miss: uncontrolled movement of mooring chain
A near miss during vessel chain laying involved uncontrolled movement of heavy bottom chain after a circulation pump tripped and the chain lifter lost holding force. The flash identifies incomplete safety systems, inadequate project-specific preparation and missing barriers, with lessons on documentation, technical safeguards, training and familiarisation.
- 2021
Asbestos - The Analysts' Guide
Guidance for asbestos analysts covering representative bulk and airborne sampling, microscopy, analytical quality assurance and independent four-stage clearance certification. It distinguishes fibre counting from asbestos identification and personal exposure from clearance results. Additional procedures address contaminated soils and made ground, respiratory protection, protective clothing, decontamination and analyst competence.
- 20206 Dec
Injury caused by closing fire flap
A crewman sustained a left-wrist wound when a fire damper closed during improvised filling of an expansion tank through ventilation trunking. The flash contrasts this method with the approved portable-pump arrangement and highlights non-routine risk assessment, adherence to procedures and management of change where approved systems are not functional.
- 20201 Jun
UK HSE: Workers injured by unplanned release of mud slurry
Three contractors suffered multiple fractures when approximately 39 cubic metres of diluted slurry escaped during recirculation pump removal for maintenance. A blocked drain had prevented discharge of pressurised contents before work began. The flash reports inadequate risk assessment and failure to implement a safe system of work.
- 202018 May
Turbo and Exhaust Manifold Fires Related to Engines
This alert reviews more than 20 compressor and generator fires involving hot turbocharger and exhaust components. Common factors include defective components, hose failures, loose electrical connections and oil entering exhaust or compressor systems. Recommendations for consideration address shielding, insulation, leak checks, temperature shutdowns, fire detection, pressure protection and operator competence.
- 202017 Mar
Damage and engine room flooding following contact by tugboat
A tug lost manoeuvrability during berthing and struck a vessel, tearing its hull and flooding the engine room. Emergency bilge suction using a ballast pump controlled the flooding. The flash examines excessive vessel speed, rough weather, communication and supervision failures, and stresses the master’s authority and familiarity with damage-control arrangements.
- 201922 Nov
Cabling in ROV hanger inadvertently severed by the ROV launch and recovery frame
A vessel’s ROV launch and recovery frame struck a bulkhead cable tray, severing electrical cables and hydraulic hoses serving equipment. The damage emerged when an emergency firefighting pump would not start during weekly testing. A documented collision risk had not changed working instructions; actions included procedural review, recovery monitoring and an engineered solution under installation.
- 20193 Oct
Pulsation Dampener Failure
An alert describes a discharge dampener separating at its flange during well displacement and becoming lodged in overhead ducting or pipework. A sudden standpipe pressure loss prompted the driller to stop all mud pumps. Maximum circulation pressure at the time was 1,750 psi; nobody was in the pump room.
- 20194 Sep
Davit failures
Two davit faults were detected during routine inspections. A rescue-boat davit could not swing out because its hydraulic pump failed to build pressure. A lifeboat davit responded slowly during stowage; changing an accumulator valve to evacuation mode restored stowage. The flash highlights inspections and planned maintenance.
- 20194 Sep
Listing of crew boat due to water ingress
A crew boat listed on its first voyage after dry-docking when water entered a starboard void space. The flash describes valve installation and gasket defects, a visual-only bilge alarm and a pump control in manual mode. It highlights absent post-drydock inspection and testing, and subsequent pre-sail checks.
- 201923 Aug
Accidental activation of emergency stop during saturation diving operations
Accidental operation of unprotected emergency-stop buttons stopped both lubricating-oil pumps and tripped a vessel’s starboard Voith Schneider propulsion during saturation diving. The vessel maintained position and divers were safely recovered without injury. Lessons address button covers, situational awareness, shipboard familiarisation, and more thorough job safety analysis and toolbox talks for routine engine-space maintenance.
- 201925 Jun
DuPont La Porte Facility Toxic Chemical Release
Investigation of a fatal methyl mercaptan release at DuPont’s La Porte insecticide unit. Four workers died inside the manufacturing building. The report examines hydrate-blocked pipework, drain valves, inadequate safeguards, alarm communication and emergency response, alongside management of change, audit effectiveness, process safety culture and misleading reliance on occupational injury metrics.
- 201912 Jun
Pryor Trust Fatal Gas Well Blowout and Fire
Investigation of an Oklahoma gas-well blowout and fire that killed five workers in the driller’s cabin. It examines underbalanced drilling, tripping methods, missed influx indications, disabled alarms, procedural and change-management deficiencies, blocked escape routes and unsuccessful blowout-preventer closure. Recommendations address drilling regulation, barrier assurance, alarm design and operating practices.
- 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.
- 201924 Jan
Grounding of general cargo vessel Celtica Hav
Investigation of Celtica Hav’s grounding on a training wall in the River Neath approaches, causing hull damage and flooding. It examines deficient pilotage planning, ineffective master/pilot information exchange and unused electronic navigation capabilities. Emergency pumping and delayed coastguard notification are assessed, with recommendations addressing pilotage plans, checklists and position monitoring.
- 201817 Sep
Costly damage to azimuth thruster caused by fishing gear
Fishing nets and rope fouled a vessel’s starboard azimuth thruster. Net damage to a seal allowed seawater into the hydraulic system, degrading lubrication and damaging components. The flash describes dry-dock repairs, spare-parts delays, missing planned-maintenance tasks, recommended water-content sampling and a proposal for the manufacturer to study a net cutter.
- 201820 Jul
USCG: two alerts relating to gas releases
This flash summarises two US Coast Guard alerts: ethylene vapours triggering carbon monoxide alarms on an LNG carrier, and contaminated Gulf Coast bunker fuel causing fuel-system failures. It highlights gas-monitor cross-sensitivity, corrective action on alarms, and fuel contamination problems undetectable by standard ISO 8217 test methods.
- 201814 Jun
USCG: Role of the main propulsion lube oil system in the loss of the El Faro
This flash summarises USCG findings on El Faro’s propulsion loss and sinking. Static modelling indicated that severe inclination and relatively low sump oil volume would likely cause pump suction loss; sloshing was excluded. Operators are urged to review machinery procedures and limitations and verify compliance with applicable standards.
- 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.
- 2018May
Pipelines PINCs
Inspection questions for DOI-regulated offshore pipelines address pump protection, shutdown devices, pressure settings, riser protection and integrity testing. Items link checks to regulatory authorities and enforcement actions. The guide also covers conditional leak detection requirements and the isolation, preservation, removal and reporting of out-of-service pipelines.
- 2018Apr
MAIB Safety Digest 1/2018
A collection of marine accident lessons covering merchant, fishing and recreational vessels. Cases examine collisions, groundings, flooding, fires and personnel injuries, with attention to navigation, towing, maintenance and emergency readiness. Equipment-specific discussions include pilot-ladder deterioration, bilge-pump blockage, carbon monoxide alarms and safety-tether hook deformation under lateral loading.
- 201715 Dec
Two cases of contaminated drinking water
Two incidents concern bacterial contamination in vessel fresh-water systems and office drinking water. Testing identified increased bacterial counts, while inspections and enquiries found neglected cleaning of tanks, dispensers and pumps. Actions included changing the drinking-water supplier, cleaning equipment, recommending scheduled cleaning and tank inspections, and avoiding reuse of drinking-water bottles.
- 20177 Dec
Gas explosions on general cargo ship Nortrader with 1 person injured
Investigation of two explosions aboard Nortrader at anchor in Plymouth Sound, injuring the chief engineer. Hydrogen generated by unprocessed incinerator bottom ash accumulated in the unventilated hold and entered the forecastle store. The report examines probable switchgear ignition, inadequate cargo testing and shortcomings in applying bulk-cargo carriage requirements.
- 20177 Nov
Finger injury: What happens when you DON’T use the right tool for the right job
During corrective maintenance of a fire pump, a crewman used a hammer and steel punching rod to remove a stuck impeller. A rod splinter penetrated his glove and injured his hand. The flash identifies unsuitable tools, an unavailable gear puller and inadequate cotton gloves, emphasising tool availability and appropriate PPE.
- 20175 Oct
Flooding in steering gear compartment
Heavy-weather water ingress through a worn towing pin/Karm fork seal flooded a vessel’s steering compartment and caused loss of steering. The flash describes delayed alarm escalation, broken bilge alarm float arms, pumping and equipment isolation. Lessons address alarm response, regular logged compartment inspections and checks of bilge sensor operation.
- 201721 Sep
Property damage: Platform supply vessel collided with legs of jack-up rig
A platform supply vessel struck a jack-up rig leg after its starboard engine and thrusters tripped following water transfer, while the hose remained connected. The flash identifies fuel-oil pump seal failure and weather-side working contrary to procedures, and highlights simultaneous-operations risk assessment and planned maintenance.
- 201726 Jul
Sinking of vivier creel boat Louisa with loss of 3 lives
Investigation of Louisa’s fatal foundering at anchor in Mingulay Bay examines probable hold flooding from a deck wash hose, disabled bilge warning and crew fatigue. Wreck examination and modelling accompany analysis of liferaft inflation failure, lifejacket performance, equipment servicing and delays in the distress-alert and rescue response.
- 201725 Jul
Parting of hawser and bulk cargo hose during tandem mooring
During tandem bunkering at sea, a mooring rope parted under intermittent jerking as both vessels yawed. Fuel transfer had not begun because the receiving vessel’s pump would not start. The empty hose subsequently parted during tugger-winch retrieval after becoming entangled. The flash discusses postponing operations pending pump readiness or improved weather.
- 201729 Jun
Grounding and evacuation of domestic passenger vessel Surprise
Investigation of Surprise’s grounding at Western Rocks, Isles of Scilly, and the safe evacuation of 48 passengers. The report examines inadequate passage planning, visual navigation in an intertidal area, outdated electronic charts and subsequent flooding. It identifies gaps in emergency procedures, safety management and local licensing assessments.
- 201725 May
Grounding of passenger vessel Royal Iris of the Mersey
The investigation examines a passenger ferry grounding on a submerged derelict dolphin near Eastham locks. Visual navigation, attention to a departing dredger and a changed approach reduced the safety margin. It reviews position monitoring, chart inaccuracies that did not contribute, effective flood containment and passenger evacuation, and subsequent navigational improvements.
- 201720 Apr
AirGas Facility Fatal Explosion
CSB investigates the fatal nitrous oxide explosion at Airgas in Cantonment, Florida, on 28 August 2016. Probable initiation involved transfer-pump heating during trailer loading, although the initiating event remains uncertain. Analysis examines flame arrestors, interlock design, pump changes and process safety management, alongside earlier explosions and recommendations for inherently safer design.
- 20176 Apr
Contact made by passenger ferry Uriah Heep with Hythe Pier
Investigation of Uriah Heep’s collision with Hythe Pier during berthing examines water jet propulsion controls, hydraulic failure modes and restricted manoeuvring space. The precise fault remained unidentified, although hydraulic mechanical failure was considered almost certain. Seated passengers received warning before impact; no recommendations followed the actions taken.
- 201721 Mar
Near miss: Emergency fire pump could not be started from the bridge
During a vessel fire drill, an emergency fire pump could not be started from the bridge because its switch was set to local control. Switching to bridge remote restored operation. The flash discusses missed checks, unused stop-work authority and communication failures, emphasising genuine testing and thorough recorded handovers.
- 201622 Dec
Collision between general cargo vessel Daroja and oil bunker barge Erin Wood
Investigation of the collision between Daroja and Erin Wood south-east of Peterhead on 29 August 2015. It examines absent lookouts, lone watchkeeping, unused navigational aids, crew competence and safety-management shortcomings. Collision damage and open weathertight doors caused flooding; the report also analyses emergency pumping, fuel leakage and regulatory oversight.
- 201616 Dec
Offshore crane safety systems
This flash summarises two crane boom failures involving ineffective upper hoist limits. One involved a missing pneumatic valve blanking plug and a hydraulic pump actuator fault; the other involved a defeated operational limit and incorrectly set ultimate limit. It recommends robust inspection and functional testing against manufacturers’ specified boom angles.
- 201627 Jul
Flooding and sinking of wooden potter Majestic
Investigation of Majestic’s flooding and sinking off Shetland on 21 January 2016. The precise ingress source remained unknown, but seawater-system failure was considered probable. Analysis examines unheard wheelhouse bilge alarms, unused pumping capacity, emergency drills and lifejacket use. Both crew abandoned into a liferaft and were rescued without injury.
- 201620 Apr
Capsize and sinking of cement carrier Cemfjord with loss of 8 lives
Investigation of Cemfjord’s rapid capsize in the Pentland Firth and subsequent sinking, with eight crew assumed lost. AIS, radar, environmental modelling and underwater surveys inform analysis of violent seas, passage planning, cargo stability and probable fatigue. The report also examines rescue-boat incompatibility, bilge pumping deficiencies and ineffective regulatory assurance.
- 20168 Mar
Capsize and sinking of twin-rig prawn trawler Kairos
Investigation of Kairos’s capsize and sinking while recovering a lost prawn trawl in very rough seas west of the Isles of Scilly. Computer-based stability analysis examines creeper-wire loading, deck swamping and probable downflooding through vents. The report also considers skipper decision-making, abandonment and the successful recovery of all five crew.
- 2016Feb
Mechrecovery Man
User manual for a browser-based calculator estimating advancing skimming systems’ oil recovery potential for planning, rather than actual spill performance. It explains encounter, recovery and storage inputs, decanting and offloading assumptions, continuous and batch spill scenarios, worked comparisons and equations, including limits imposed by maximum effective swath.
- 201627 Jan
Lost time injury (LTI): Stored pressure release – Crewman lost an eye
A crewman lost his left eye while installing an emitter protection tube in an offshore vessel’s freshwater UV disinfection unit. Water pressure expelled the glass tube after apparent inadvertent valve opening. The flash identifies valve design, restricted ergonomics, incomplete isolation, absent work authorisation and failure to wear required safety glasses.
- 201523 Nov
An error with fire flaps led to engine space flooding, causing costly damage
A crew transfer vessel suffered engine-space flooding after an incorrectly positioned retaining pin allowed a fire flap to close in moderate seas. Engine suction loosened a toilet overboard pipe. Bilge pump failures complicated containment, and seawater damage required substantial engine repairs and off-hire time. No injuries or risk to life were reported.
- 201529 Oct
Fire in engine room on ro-ro passenger ferry Pride of Canterbury
Investigation of Pride of Canterbury’s engine room fire while berthing in Calais. A jammed back pressure valve caused hydraulic overpressure and joint rupture, releasing oil onto hot exhaust uptakes. The report examines valve testing, joint shielding, pressure safeguards and hi-fog firefighting. The engine room sustained significant damage, but nobody was injured.
- 201510 Aug
Lost time injury (LTI) and restricted workday case (RWC) following failure of diving bell door system
A diving bell door fell after its hydraulic ram failed, trapping one diver’s feet. A second diver injured his hand during the attempted release using recovery equipment. The flash examines hydraulic pressure, missing maintenance and door securing arrangements, and highlights secondary closure-prevention systems and planned maintenance.
- 2015Jul
2015-002 ST 220 Investigation of Loss of Well Control and Fire, Gulf of Mexico, July 23, 2013, South Timbalier Area Block 220, Well No. A-3 OCS-G 24980
BSEE investigates the South Timbalier A-3 blowout and subsequent fire during well completion on Hercules 265. It examines temperature-dependent brine density, seepage losses, kick recognition, shut-in procedures and unsuccessful BOP sealing. The report documents evacuation, depletion-relief drilling, regulatory findings and recommendations; the ignition source remains unknown.
- 201524 Jun
Flooding and abandonment of general cargo ship Sea Breeze
This investigation examines Sea Breeze’s flooding during ballast-pump removal and subsequent abandonment. An incompletely closed isolation valve allowed seawater into the engine room. The report analyses worn actuator gearing, missing maintenance and work controls, ineffective emergency preparedness, and an open watertight door that allowed flooding to spread into accommodation.
- 201511 Feb
Fire and sinking of passenger transfer catamaran ECC Topaz during engine trials
Investigation of the fire and subsequent sinking of ECC Topaz near Lowestoft. It examines two plausible heater-exhaust ignition mechanisms, unauthorised modifications, temperature-rating discrepancies and absent heater-space smoke detection. The report discusses maintenance shortcomings, crew abandonment and helicopter rescue, with recommendations addressing exhaust specifications and manufacturer approval of modifications.
- 201410 Dec
Controlled Helicopter Ditching Following Main Gearbox Lubrication Warnings
This interim AAIB bulletin examines the controlled ditching of G-REDW following main gearbox lubrication warnings. It reports fatigue fracture of the bevel gear vertical shaft, corrosion and manufacturing inspection findings, and continuing investigation of the emergency lubrication warning. Fracture examination, dimensional measurements, fatigue testing and vibration monitoring inform the ongoing work.
- 201410 Dec
EC225 Emergency Gearbox Lubrication Continued Despite Failure Warning During Testing
This tentative AAIB investigation bulletin examines the EC225 LP emergency gearbox lubrication system following G-REDW’s ditching. Component tests indicated that lubrication continued despite a failure warning. Analysis identified a possible pressure-sensor tolerance issue, and the bulletin recommends a design review to ensure accurate crew indications.
- 201410 Dec
Two EC225 LP Helicopter Ditchings in the North Sea
Combined investigation of two EC225 LP helicopter ditchings in the North Sea in 2012. Corrosion-pit initiated fatigue failures interrupted gearbox oil-pump drive. The report examines stress modelling, welding residual stresses, condition monitoring, misleading emergency lubrication warnings, evacuation and liferaft deployment, and records corrective actions and safety recommendations.
- 201410 Dec
EC225 Ditched in North Sea Following Gearbox Lubrication Warnings
Preliminary AAIB findings describe the controlled North Sea ditching of an EC225 following gearbox lubrication warnings. A circumferential crack near a weld in the bevel gear vertical shaft stopped both mechanical oil pumps being driven. The bulletin outlines emergency lubrication, recorded vibration data, evacuation and continuing investigation.
- 201410 Dec
EC225 Controlled Ditching Following Gearbox Lubrication Warnings
This preliminary AAIB investigation describes the controlled ditching of G-CHCN following gearbox lubrication warnings. Examination identified a circumferential shaft crack that interrupted oil pump drive. Recorded vibration indicators had exceeded alert thresholds on earlier flights. Occupants were rescued without injury, and airworthiness monitoring requirements were under review.
- 2014Dec
Sinking/abandonment of DUKW amphibious passenger vehicle Wacker Quacker 1 and fire/abandonment of DUKW Cleopatra
Investigates Wacker Quacker 1’s sinking in Liverpool and Cleopatra’s fire on the River Thames in 2013. Examines propeller fouling, corroded hull plating, buoyancy foam installation and probable ignition at an overheating universal joint. Practical flooding trials and laboratory examinations inform findings on damaged survivability, regulatory oversight and passenger abandonment.
- 20143 Oct
Near-miss: Engine room flooding
A ballasting near-miss flooded a vessel’s engine room after rapid valve closure created a pressure shock that displaced a sea-strainer cover. Inadequate communication and departure from the manufacturer’s procedure worsened events. Lessons include vessel-specific procedures, clearer valve displays and interlocks preventing simultaneous pump and valve operation.
- 2014Oct
Contact by stern trawler Shalimar with quay and subsequent sinking of vessel
Shalimar struck a quay while shifting berths at Scrabster after its gearbox control cable mounting detached. The investigation examines cable securing, engine stopping arrangements, pumping capacity and non-watertight bulkheads. Rapid flooding led to foundering; all crew escaped uninjured. Liferaft and beacon release limitations in shallow water are also analysed.
- 2014Oct
MAIB Safety Digest 2/2014
A collection of marine accident accounts and preventive lessons covering merchant vessels, fishing boats and small craft. Cases examine groundings, collisions, fires, flooding, mooring injuries and rescue difficulties. Discussions address navigation equipment, watchkeeping fatigue, crew coordination, emergency drills and equipment readiness, with an appended bulletin on oxygen depletion and unsafe rescue attempts.
- 201414 Jul
Engine room fire
A tug engine-room fire caused extensive localised damage without injuries. Investigation identified worsening hydraulic power-pack leakage, exposed exhaust-manifold hot surfaces and missed firefighting actions. Lessons cover prompt defect rectification, insulation and oil-line condition, serviceable fire flaps, regular emergency shutdown testing and monthly crew fire drills.
- 2014May
MAIB Safety Digest 2014 — Fishing edition
A fishing-focused collection of accident accounts and practical lessons covering overboard emergencies, entanglement, flooding, stability, navigation and equipment integrity. Cases examine trawl wires, winches, enclosed-space pump exhaust and vessel alarms, alongside recovery arrangements, flotation equipment, inspection, fire drills and first-aid training.
- 20144 Apr
Oil spill incident
A vessel’s fuel delivery hose parted during transfer to a shore-side road tanker, spilling diesel onto the deck and into the sea. Investigators believed a closed receiving valve caused pressure to rise. Lessons address receiving-party readiness, connection certification and inspection, deck-opening protection and an operational remote pump stop.
- 2014Apr
Collision between tug Christos XXII and its tow, former fisheries protection vessel Emsstrom which later sank
Investigation of a tug–tow collision off Hope’s Nose during anchoring to investigate Emsstrom’s list. The report examines overlooked tidal effects, limited company crisis support and flooding aboard Christos XXII, including pumping and evacuation. Emsstrom subsequently sank; the cause of its list remained unknown. A company crisis response cell is recommended.
- 2014Apr
Grounding and sinking of large private motor yacht Isamar
This simplified investigation examines Isamar’s grounding off Corsica and subsequent sinking. It identifies reliance on outdated electronic charts at an unsuitable scale and the absence of appropriate passage planning. Unclosed watertight openings and ineffective pumping accelerated flooding; passengers and crew abandoned the yacht without injury.
- 2014Feb
Grounding of twin-rig stern trawler Prospect and subsequent sinking while under tow
Investigation of Prospect’s grounding at Skibby Baas and subsequent foundering during towage at Lerwick Harbour. It examines inadequate passage planning and monitoring, telephone distraction, possible alcohol effects, flooding and uncertain stability. Recommendations address navigation refresher training, compliant electronic charts, watchkeeping practices and monthly emergency drills. No injuries or pollution occurred.
- 201413 Jan
Safety Alert 21 - Pollution from Production Operations Due to Improper Diversion of Production Flow and Rupture Disc Failure
This alert describes an offshore production spill involving diverted flare-header flow and a failed rupture disc. More than 35 barrels of oil entered the ocean, mostly recovered. Alarm failures and continued pump operation worsened the incident. Recommendations address change management, rupture-disc inspection, alarm reliability and training; the initial process-upset cause remained undetermined.
- 2014Jan
Flooding and sinking of potter Achieve with loss of 1 life
This investigation examines Achieve’s foundering near Taransay and a crew member’s death from hypothermia. Flooding most likely followed a sprung hull plank, but its cause remained uncertain. The report analyses disconnected bilge alarms, pumping capacity, unused automatic distress systems, delayed rescue and liferaft survival.