Topic
Fatigue
Reduced human alertness or performance associated with tiredness.
Newest 100 Documents
All 115 in search- 202613 Aug
Grounding and subsequent loss of the fishing vessel Silver Cloud II (WK 80)
Investigation of Silver Cloud II’s grounding and subsequent loss near Lochinver. The skipper fell asleep during a lone navigational watch, very likely through acute fatigue exacerbated by illness and inadequate rest. Analysis examines watch alarm limitations and crew abandonment; regular safety drills likely helped the three crew escape without injury.
- 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.
- 20267 May
Grounding and subsequent loss of the fishing vessel Crystal Stream (LH 147)
MAIB investigates Crystal Stream’s grounding and subsequent loss near Barmore Island, Scotland. The lone watchkeeper fell asleep; severe fatigue from accumulated sleep debt was highly likely. The report examines flooding, ineffective watchkeeping, delayed liferaft evacuation and inadequate safety management, recommending improved watchkeeping procedures and fleetwide fatigue management.
- 202521 Aug
Avoiding fatigue guidance note
Guidance for offshore petroleum duty holders on preventing and managing workforce fatigue within the regulatory framework. It examines sleep debt, circadian rhythms and interacting organisational factors, outlining layered fatigue risk management through staffing, roster design, sleep opportunities, screening and training. It also addresses handovers, interrupted sleep, incident investigation and monitoring of barrier performance.
- 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.
- 2025Apr
CHIRP Superyacht FEEDBACK 9 (April 2025)
This superyacht incident digest examines a post-dry-dock fire, unsuitable crew accommodation during repairs, drug use, inadequate provision for working aloft, a falling crane hook, fatigued anchoring and unrecognised enclosed spaces. Commentary addresses safety culture, equipment readiness, familiarisation, design feedback and atmospheric testing.
- 202424 Oct
Grounding and subsequent loss of stern trawler Ocean Maid
Investigation of Ocean Maid’s grounding at Cairnbulg Point and subsequent loss. It examines unattended watchkeeping, reliance on past tracks across two chart plotters, impaired night vision and likely effects of insufficient sleep. The report analyses navigation competence, risk assessment and the prompt abandonment and rescue of all four crew.
- 202425 Jul
Grounding and subsequent loss of commercial swim event support vessel Channel Queen
Investigation of Channel Queen’s grounding on the Varvassi wreck during an Isle of Wight relay swim on 20 July 2023. It examines inadequate passage planning, ineffective navigation equipment use, the qualified skipper’s departure and divided attention at the helm. Recommendations address qualified crewing and chart-based passage planning; flooding led to beaching and abandonment.
- 202418 Jul
Contact with Oikos Jetty 2 by chemical tanker Ali Ka
Investigation of Ali Ka’s contact with Oikos Jetty 2 during departure from Canvey Island without tug assistance. It examines passage planning, bridge-team coordination, propulsion orders, tidal effects and ECDIS settings. Pilot fatigue was assessed as highly likely to have contributed; recommendations address fatigue management, training, tug provision and challenge resolution.
- 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.
- 2024
CHIRP Maritime FEEDBACK 76 (Autumn 2024)
This maritime digest examines unauthorised enclosed-space entry, tug propulsion failure during LNG berthing, suspected officer fatigue, rotating-shaft hazards, inadequate provisions, deficient dynamic-positioning capability and departure in strong winds. Case commentary contrasts effective teamwork and stop-work intervention with commercial pressure and weak safety culture, highlighting entry permits, towing configuration and position-reference requirements.
- 202313 Nov
Vehicle incident – driver tiredness
A company vehicle returning from a project site struck a stationary police vehicle after its tired driver continued towards a scheduled rest stop. A passenger suffered arm and nose injuries when the airbag deployed. The flash highlights driver changes, fatigue awareness, journey management, passenger vigilance and securing luggage and laptops.
- 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.
- 2023
CHIRP Annual Digest 2023
An annual compilation of confidential maritime incident reports and analytical articles covering shipping, commercial fishing, ports and superyachts. Case commentaries examine navigation, mooring, lifting, equipment failures and enclosed-space entry. Wider discussions address safety culture, communication, seafarer wellbeing and fatigue, including an indicative watchkeeper fatigue assessment tool.
- 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.
- 202226 Sep
American P&I Club: Vessel grounding – fatigue was a factor
A towing vessel pulling a deck barge grounded on a shoal after the Mate fell asleep on watch. The flash discusses disrupted rest, inaccurate work/rest records and unused ECDIS alarms. Lessons emphasise adequate rest, honest recording of working hours, assistance when struggling to remain alert and correct alarm settings.
- 2022Aug
Guidance on the provision of accommodation on offshore installations
HSE guidance explains offshore accommodation requirements, covering bed design, cabin space, privacy and overcrowding. It sets conditions for temporary 2+1 occupancy and welfare impact assessments, alongside safety-case changes and workforce consultation. Separate provisions address accommodation support vessels and planned or unplanned overnight stays on normally unattended installations.
- 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.
- 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.
- 202126 Mar
The Offshore Management of Human Factors Inspection Guide
Inspection guidance for assessing human factors management in UKCS offshore oil and gas operations. It sets success criteria for critical task analysis, procedures, competence, fatigue, handovers, staffing, organisational change, interfaces and alarms. Qualitative analysis underpins quantitative assessment, while inspection scoring accounts for the scope inspected and cumulative risk gaps.
- 202119 Feb
MAIB: Fatal accident during cargo operations on Karina C
This flash summarises MAIB findings on a fatal crushing aboard Karina C involving a moving gantry crane and hatch covers. It highlights inadequate supervision, poor communication, weak safety culture and unenforced alcohol policy. Alcohol probably impaired judgement; tiredness might also have influenced actions. Reporting followed postmortem findings and CCTV examination.
- 2021
CHIRP Annual Digest 2021
This annual maritime digest combines confidential incident reports with specialist insights into human performance and seafarer wellbeing. Cases examine pilot boarding, mooring, propulsion failures, fires and maintenance. Commentary discusses fatigue management, risk assessment and communication, alongside trauma-informed interviewing and confidential reporting arrangements.
- 202031 Jul
Safety performance in the offshore renewable energy industry
An IMCA safety flash relays HSE concerns about stalled or potentially declining safety performance in offshore renewable energy. It highlights statutory equipment inspections, training and supervision for newcomers, performance monitoring, realistic scheduling, tested emergency arrangements, fatigue monitoring, and reporting and investigation to prevent recurrence.
- 202021 May
Personnel resourcing information paper
This information paper examines how personnel resourcing affects human reliability, particularly through fatigue and time pressure. It discusses emergency response staffing, maintenance scheduling and independent checks, and supervisory workload. Drawing on SPAR-H, it outlines approaches organisations may consider to reduce error and support effective risk management.
- 202020 Mar
Grounding and loss of fishing vessel Coelleira
Investigation of Coelleira’s grounding at Ve Skerries, Shetland, and subsequent loss following unsuccessful salvage. It examines inadequate passage planning, ineffective lookout and position monitoring, electronic navigation limitations and possible fatigue. All 15 crew were evacuated without injury. Recommendations address future watchkeeping, rest requirements and electronic chart coverage and updating.
- 20192 Oct
Grounding of general cargo vessel Priscilla
Investigation of Priscilla’s grounding on Pentland Skerries examines uncorrected track deviation, an unsafe alternative route, distracted watchkeeping and inadequate navigational warnings. It analyses passage planning, ECDIS settings, lookout arrangements and coastguard intervention, using AIS reconstruction and bridge simulation. Significant hull damage occurred, without pollution or injury; periodic sleep remained possible rather than established.
- 201911 Jul
EC175B Nose Landing Gear Collapsed on Landing
An EC175B helicopter’s nose landing gear collapsed on landing at Aberdeen Airport after a pintle pin failed. Investigation found that a bushing had been omitted during A-frame replacement. The report examines maintenance instructions, independent inspection, staffing and fatigue, and describes procedural changes and manufacturer inspection requirements.
- 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
Safety Alert 351 - BSEE Identifies Rig Operations Hazards during Risk Based Inspections
BSEE summarises performance-based risk inspections of 11 Gulf of Mexico rigs following a review of 2016–2018 compliance and incident data. Findings address contractor communication, emergency drills, short-service employees, fitness for duty, safe zones, fall protection, grounding and man riding. Recommendations focus on reviewing procedures and strengthening equipment integrity arrangements.
- 20183 May
Managing offshore shift work and fatigue risk
This information sheet addresses fatigue risks from offshore shift patterns, tour lengths and overtime. It outlines risk-based scheduling, working-hours policies, supervisory decisions and monitoring within safety management systems. It discusses uncertainty about regular 21-day tours, relevant legal duties, and questions for assessing rest arrangements and fatigue indicators.
- 201825 Apr
Collision between bulk carrier Huayang Endeavour and oil tanker Seafrontier
Investigation of the collision between Huayang Endeavour and Seafrontier in the Dover Strait. It examines inadequate long-range scanning, conflicting plans following VHF communication, omitted sound signals and the very likely effects of fatigue and mental loading on Seafrontier’s master. Neither injuries nor pollution occurred; completed remedial actions included retraining and rest-hours monitoring.
- 2018Mar
How to Prevent Fatigued Driving at Work - Oil & Gas Employer Fact 2018
This employer fact sheet addresses fatigued driving in oil and gas extraction. It outlines alertness risks and illustrates a fatal truck crash. Recommended measures include fatigue policies, journey planning, limits on work and driving hours, rest and sleep opportunities, rested transport drivers, worker education and protection for stop-work decisions.
- 2018Mar
How to Prevent Fatigued Driving at Work - Oil & Gas Workers Fact 2018
This fact sheet explains fatigued driving risks for oil and gas extraction workers, including long journeys, extended shifts, body-clock effects and medications. It describes warning signs and a fatal crash, then outlines sleep, travel planning, rest breaks and stop-work measures, distinguishing temporary caffeine use from adequate sleep.
- 201719 Oct
Grounding of bulk carrier Muros
Investigation of Muros’s grounding on Haisborough Sand examines an unapproved revised passage plan, electronic chart scale, disabled warning functions and reduced watchkeeper alertness. ECDIS replay and simulations explored route checking and safety-contour alarm behaviour. Rudder damage required towing for repair; no injuries or pollution occurred.
- 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.
- 20166 Oct
Man overboard from twin rig trawler Aquarius with loss of 1 life
Investigates a fatal overboard accident east of Aberdeen during trawl-warp marking aboard Aquarius. A fibre-rope stopper failed, causing the warp to tighten and throw a crewman into the sea. Analysis examines stoppering practice, absent flotation protection, inadequate recovery preparation, fragmented rest, risk assessment shortcomings and poor onboard safety culture.
- 201630 Jun
Grounding and flooding of scallop dredger St Apollo
Investigation of St Apollo’s grounding in the Sound of Mull and subsequent flooding during a falling tide. The report examines position monitoring, autopilot heading inputs, watchkeeper competence and alertness, abandonment and watertight closures. The reported loss of heading control remained unresolved; the vessel was salvaged but declared a constructive total loss.
- 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.
- 2016Apr
MAIB Safety Digest 1/2016
Marine accident case studies cover merchant vessels, commercial fishing and recreational craft, examining navigation, fatigue, flooding, fires, machinery entanglement and overboard emergencies. Lessons address risk assessment, training, maintenance and emergency preparation. A reproduced bulletin examines premature failure of jacketed synthetic mooring ropes and limitations of internal condition assessment.
- 20168 Mar
Collision between stern trawlers Good Intent and Silver Dee resulting in Silver Dee sinking
Investigation of an Irish Sea collision between wooden stern trawlers Silver Dee and Good Intent. Ineffective lookout and probable watchkeeper fatigue contributed to the accident. Silver Dee flooded rapidly without watertight subdivision and sank after its crew transferred safely. The report examines navigation practices, abandonment and construction standards, recommending improved watchkeeping.
- 20159 Jul
Collision between chemical tanker Orakai and beam trawler Margriet
Investigation of a North Sea collision between chemical tanker Orakai and beam trawler Margriet. It examines ineffective lookout, the tanker officer’s absence from the bridge, radar monitoring and possible fatigue. Margriet suffered serious damage; no injuries occurred. Recommendations address navigational watchkeeping and relief arrangements for officers leaving the bridge.
- 201520 Mar
Diver fainted
A tired diver fainted after receiving permission to enter the bell wearing his chemical oversuit. He regained consciousness and the bell was recovered normally. The flash discusses procedural failures, contributory factors identified by the member, and reviews of diving checklists, contamination drills and guidance on precautionary decompression following health issues.
- 2014Jun
Carbon monoxide poisoning on scallop dredger Eshcol, used as overnight accommodation, with loss of 2 lives
Investigates two fatal carbon monoxide poisonings aboard Eshcol at Whitby. A butane cooker grill used for overnight heating emitted high levels of gas, primarily through corrosion-related incomplete combustion. The report examines inadequate ventilation, absent carbon monoxide detection, defective heating, fatigue, appliance servicing and shortcomings in fishing-vessel guidance and training.
- 2014Jun
Person overboard from motor tug Endurance while crossing to unmanned motor cruiser Sirius M with loss of 1 life
Investigates a fatal fall into the sea during an attempted transfer from Endurance to unmanned cruiser Sirius M after towline failure. Examines towline chafe, towing practice, unsuccessful recovery, flotation protection, likely fatigue effects and qualification deficiencies, alongside shortcomings in vessel surveys, certification scrutiny and port oversight.
- 2014Apr
Grounding of general cargo vessel Danio
Investigation of Danio’s grounding off Longstone on 16 March 2013 after its lone bridge watchkeeper fell asleep. The report examines cumulative fatigue, falsified rest records, absent lookouts, a disabled watch alarm and over-reliance on electronic charts. It addresses safe manning and auditing of actual onboard practice; no pollution occurred.
- 2014Jan
Grounding of general cargo vessel Douwent
Investigation of Douwent’s grounding on Haisborough Sand examines incorrect waypoint selection, reliance on GPS, inadequate position monitoring and probable sleep during a lone bridge watch. The rudder was lost during refloating attempts. The report analyses emergency checklist failures and concealment of events, recommending improved onboard safety culture and watchkeeping.
- 2013Dec
Grounding of general cargo vessel Fri Ocean
Investigation of Fri Ocean’s grounding south of Tobermory on 14 June 2013 after the lone watchkeeper fell asleep. It examines bridge design, unstimulating navigation, possible fatigue, absent lookout provision and ineffective alarm safeguards. Recommendations address watchkeeping, crew rest, navigational instructions and verification of the manager’s policy.
- 2013Nov
Contact made by passenger/ro-ro cargo ferry Finnarrow with berth and its subsequent flooding
Finnarrow’s deployed port fin stabiliser struck a berth at Holyhead, puncturing the hull and flooding the pump room. The investigation examines ineffective arrival checks, stabiliser indications, possible fatigue and inadequate crew familiarisation. It analyses bilge pumping and damage control, recommending stronger arrival procedures and regular flooding drills.
- 2013Jun
Collision between container vessels Hyundai Discovery and ACX Hibiscus
Investigation of a container-ship collision in restricted visibility near the Singapore Strait. It examines watchkeeping, radar and AIS use, emergency manoeuvring, and compliance with collision regulations. Bridge simulation assesses avoiding options, while unavailable evidence limits underlying-cause analysis. Recommendations address training, safety-management arrangements and investigation cooperation.
- 2013Jun
Grounding of dry cargo vessel Beaumont
Beaumont grounded at Cabo Negro, Spain, after its chief officer fell asleep while alone on watch. The investigation identifies insufficient stimulation and probable fatigue, alongside ineffective use of navigational alarms and lookouts. It examines work and rest arrangements, bridge safeguards and subsequent changes to the manager’s safety management system.
- 2012Oct
Collision between refrigerated cargo vessel Spring Bok and liquid petroleum gas tanker Gas Arctic
Investigation of a collision between Spring Bok and Gas Arctic south of Dungeness in restricted visibility. Both vessels sustained structural damage without injuries or pollution. Analysis examines lookout failures, radar monitoring, bridge distractions, blind sectors and probable fatigue, with recommendations addressing watch routines and compliance with navigation procedures.
- 2012May
Grounding of container vessel Karin Schepers
Investigation of Karin Schepers’ grounding near Pendeen examines the master falling asleep, fatigue, probable alcohol contribution, absent lookout and unused bridge watch alarm. It analyses refloating decisions, coastguard intervention powers, emergency checklists and safety-management audits. Recovered voyage data recorder information supplied the accident’s complete record; the vessel refloated without damage.
- 2012Mar
Grounding of scallop dredger Golden Promise
This investigation examines Golden Promise’s grounding on Stroma after the skipper fell asleep and missed a course alteration. It analyses probable fatigue, working routines, passage planning and an ineffective watch alarm. Recommendations address watchkeeping practices, fitness for duty and mandatory safety training. The crew were rescued uninjured; the vessel became a constructive total loss.
- 2012
OSHA Fatal Facts, Oil Patch No. 1-2012
An oilfield crew’s pickup overturned on a wet road at night after approaching a curve at unsafe speed, killing two occupants who were ejected. The alert recommends seat-belt use, company vehicle safety programmes, speed adjustment for adverse conditions, fatigue-related driving restrictions and proper vehicle maintenance.
- 2011Sep
Collision between container vessel Boxford and twin beam trawler Admiral Blake
MAIB investigates the collision between container ship Boxford and trawler Admiral Blake in the English Channel. It analyses ineffective visual and radar lookout, misinterpreted vessel movements, probable master fatigue and receive-only AIS use. Two men were recovered from the sea. Recommendations address watchkeeping, crew-change workloads and AIS transmission.
- 2011Aug
Grounding of stern trawler Jack Abry II
Investigation of Jack Abry II’s grounding on the Isle of Rum during passage from Lochinver. The skipper fell asleep and missed a course alteration. Analysis examines probable fatigue, watchkeeping, unused alarms, chart plotter limitations and company oversight. All 14 crew were rescued; the vessel became a constructive total loss and pollution occurred.
- 2011Jul
Shift Work — Process Safety Beacon, July 2011
This bulletin explains how rotating shifts and disrupted sleep can impair alertness in continuous process operations. Aviation events and major night-time process incidents illustrate the importance of vigilance. It discusses management’s scheduling role and practical fatigue-reduction measures, including quality daytime sleep, pre-shift naps, activity and avoiding demanding tasks when most tired.
- 2010Oct
Grounding and subsequent sinking of crabber Kerloch
Investigation of Kerloch’s grounding at Crow Rock off Wales and subsequent sinking after the skipper fell asleep. Examines fatigue, passage planning, ineffective watch alarms, emergency equipment and drills, watertight subdivision, and Jersey regulatory oversight. All four crew were rescued; no injuries or pollution were reported.
- 2010Aug
Parting of trawl wire on converted scallop dredger Olivia Jean with 1 person injured
MAIB investigates a fisherman’s injury aboard Olivia Jean off Beachy Head when a trawl wire parted during gear recovery and bridle chains fell onto him. The failure mechanism remained uncertain because wire ends were discarded. The report examines equipment maintenance, vessel modifications and stability, crew rest, medical assistance and regulatory oversight.
- 2010May
MAIB Safety Digest 2010 — Fishing edition
This fishing safety digest examines separate casualties involving grounding, flooding, fire, capsize and crew overboard, alongside fatigue and gear-handling injuries. Lessons address navigation, watertight integrity, emergency drills, lifejacket servicing and safe winch arrangements. Cases distinguish uncertain flooding origins and alternative fire causes from established equipment deficiencies.
- 2010Apr
MAIB Safety Digest 1/2010
This digest presents lessons from merchant shipping, commercial fishing and small-craft accidents. Cases examine watchkeeping fatigue, groundings, collisions, machinery and propulsion-control failures, fires, hazardous cargo vapours and waterborne casualties. Discussions address navigation aids, respiratory protection, emergency drills, communication and adequate rest, with findings qualified as tentative.
- 2009Apr
MAIB Safety Digest 1/2009
A collection of merchant-vessel, fishing and small-craft accident lessons examines fires, groundings, collisions, flooding and injuries. Cases address bridge teamwork, fatigue, evacuation-system defects, chemical spill response and electrical isolation. Preventive lessons emphasise equipment maintenance, navigational competence, work permits and timely communication with emergency services.
- 2007Apr
MAIB Safety Digest 1/2007
This digest presents lessons from accidents involving merchant ships, fishing vessels and leisure craft. Cases examine groundings, collisions, fires, machinery failures and people falling overboard. Discussions cover bridge teamwork, fatigue, passage planning, pilot ladders, emergency steering, fire response, lifejacket use and recovery from the water.
- 2006Jul
MAIB Safety Digest 2/2006
This marine accident digest presents cases involving merchant ships, fishing vessels and leisure craft. Lessons examine lookout, passage planning, fatigue, firefighting, lifting injuries, lifeboat failures, flooding and capsize. Case analyses emphasise suitable training, clear briefings, risk assessment and emergency arrangements. Appendices list examinations, investigations and issued reports.
- 2006Apr
MAIB Safety Digest 1/2006
This digest examines accidents involving merchant ships, fishing vessels and leisure craft. Cases address cargo shift, grounding, flooding, fire, fatigue, lifting injuries and lifeboat release testing. Preventive lessons discuss passage planning, watertight integrity, emergency equipment, maintenance, risk assessment and crew preparedness, while retaining uncertainty where causes remain unresolved.
- 2006
Managing shift work - Health and safety guidance
Guidance for employers on assessing and managing shift-work risks, particularly fatigue and disrupted sleep. It addresses working-time duties, consultation, schedule rotation, shift length, breaks and night-worker health assessments. Practical advice for workers accompanies methods for monitoring arrangements and evaluating changes using HSE’s Fatigue and Risk Index Tool.
- 2005Jun
Collision between general cargo vessel Scot Explorer and side trawler Dorthe Dalsoe
Investigation of the Kattegat collision between Scot Explorer and Dorthe Dalsoe examines inadequate lookout arrangements, inaccurate radar assessment of passing distance and misleading navigation lights. It considers possible fatigue of the fishing vessel’s skipper and analyses safe manning, rest requirements and the use of radar tracking and guard facilities.
- 2005Mar
Grounding of general cargo vessel Jackie Moon
Investigation of Jackie Moon’s grounding off Dunoon in September 2004. The chief officer almost certainly fell asleep through fatigue and alcohol consumption. Analysis examines solitary night watchkeeping, unused bridge alarms, inaccurate rest records, familiarisation and management shortcomings, alongside employment-contract concerns explicitly distinguished from contributory accident factors.
- 2005
MAIB Safety Digest 1/2005
Marine accident lessons span merchant shipping, fishing vessels and leisure craft. A watchkeeping study combines investigation-file analysis with fatigue modelling. Cases examine navigation, stability, fire, machinery entanglement and falls, highlighting rest arrangements, risk assessment, isolation, emergency training and the limitations of protective equipment.
- 2002Nov
Crush incident involving power operated watertight door on passenger cruise ship Royal Princess with 1 person injured
Investigates an engineer’s arm injury involving a closing hydraulic watertight door aboard Royal Princess, subsequently requiring amputation. The report examines uncertain passage circumstances, inconsistent instructions, control mechanisms, escape-door interlocks and possible fatigue. Recommendations address practical operating rules, watchkeeping changes and risk assessment of escape-door operation.
- 2002Nov
Safety warning after watchkeeper falls asleep resulting in grounding of beam trawler
This safety bulletin describes Jacoba grounding after its sole watchkeeper fell asleep while returning from fishing grounds, causing heavy vessel damage. It recommends that fishing vessel owners and skippers ensure any fitted watch alarm is sufficiently loud and has secondary backup to alert other crew if the initial alarm remains uncancelled.
- 2002Oct
Grounding of motor pleasure yacht Choice
Investigation of Choice’s grounding on Blyth Sands in the Thames on 9 August 2001 during a team-building voyage. It examines position monitoring, passage planning, fatigue, student supervision and communication of concerns. Navigation aids and evacuation are discussed, with recommendations addressing watchkeeper rest, planning and wheelhouse training arrangements.
- 2002Apr
Collision between aggregates dredger Sand Heron and trawler Celtit
MAIB investigates the collision between aggregates dredger Sand Heron and fishing vessel Celtit in the Dover traffic separation scheme. The report examines radar monitoring, lookout, fatigue and delayed avoiding action, finding that neither vessel correctly applied collision regulations. Recommendations address navigational awareness and discussion of the second officer’s actions.
- 2002Feb
Grounding of stern trawler Lomur
This investigation examines Lomur’s grounding on Hoe Skerry while returning to Scalloway on 14 June 2001. The skipper fell asleep on watch after inadequate rest. Analysis addresses inshore fishing routines, crew numbers, visual navigation, autopilot reliance and watch-alarm arrangements. Recommendations concern manning, risk assessment, wheelhouse practices and alarm-reset positioning.
- 2002
MAIB Safety Digest 1/2002
A multi-case marine safety digest examines merchant, fishing and leisure vessel accidents and near misses. Lessons address lookout practice, radar limitations, fatigue, maintenance, enclosed-space entry, fire response and survival preparation. Detailed cases discuss lifeboat failures, hydraulic overpressure and heavy-weather yacht evacuation, with practical emphasis on checks, communication and training.
- 2001Apr
Collision between offshore supply and standby vessel Highland Pioneer and DA jack-up rig
Investigation of Highland Pioneer’s collision with the Douglas installation’s DA jack-up rig in Liverpool Bay. It examines unmonitored approach, mistaken belief that speed had reduced, lone watchkeeping and ambiguous traffic-monitoring responsibilities. Radar records establish approach speed; the report discusses possible fatigue and operators’ subsequent procedural changes.
- 2000
MAIB Safety Digest 1/2000
A collection of marine accident accounts and lessons covering merchant vessels, fishing vessels and leisure craft. Cases examine passage planning, machinery failures, lifting, pressure testing, fatigue, flooding and stability. Discussions address communication, watertight closures, rest arrangements and casualty recovery, while retaining uncertainty where investigations could not establish mechanisms.
- 2000
MAIB Safety Digest 2000 — Fishing edition
A special fishing safety digest brings together accident lessons on flooding, capsize, deck injuries, overboard emergencies, navigation and machinery maintenance. Cases examine bilge systems, watertight subdivision, lifejackets, retrieval arrangements and vessel modifications. It stresses testing, servicing and stability assessment, while qualifying findings where incident evidence remains uncertain.
- 1999
Reducing error and influencing behaviour
Guidance on reducing human error through ergonomic design, usable procedures and organisational improvements. It distinguishes errors from violations, examines fatigue, shift handovers and safety culture, and explains human reliability assessment. Eighteen intervention case studies demonstrate practical changes, emphasising workforce participation and controls beyond reliance on individual behaviour.
- 1997
MAIB Safety Digest 2/1997
Marine casualty summaries examine merchant shipping, fishing vessels and leisure craft, with lessons on navigation cross-checks, watchkeeping, fatigue, cargo work and rescue. Cases discuss equipment failures, collisions, groundings, galley incidents, capsizing and flooding. Appendices describe investigation levels and list investigations commenced during a specified 1997 period.
- 1996
MAIB Safety Digest 1/1996
A collection of maritime casualty accounts examines towing failures, engine-room fires, fatigue-related groundings, machinery injuries and fatal tank exposure. Cases discuss lifeboat winch clutches, fuel-system fittings, oxygen hoses and fishing-vessel flooding. Commentary addresses operating instructions, atmospheric testing, watchkeeper rest, fire suppression and lifesaving arrangements, retaining uncertainty where causes were not established.
- 1991
Grounding of ro-ro passenger ferry Earl Granville
Investigation of Earl Granville’s grounding near Cherbourg examines an easterly approach, changing tidal currents and delayed calling of the master. It assesses extensive hull damage, flooding, stability concerns and inadequate emergency arrangements. Recommendations address navigation aids, officers’ rest, revised stability information and practical emergency exercises.
- Undated
Gas Release During Valve Removal on Production Platform
Investigation of a gas release during valve removal on a production platform. Inadequate isolation allowed pipeline gas to escape through open-ended coalescer piping. The report identifies check-valve malfunction, rushed decisions, deficient procedures, poor communication and fatigue, and recommends lockout and tagout, stop-work processes and coordination of simultaneous operations.
- Undated
Detached Pressurised Hydraulic Hose Struck Floorman
An investigation into injuries on the Vantage Titanium Explorer found that incorrect hydraulic fittings allowed a pressurised hose to detach, striking a floorman with hose and fluid. The report identifies absent task risk assessment, poor housekeeping and possible fatigue following a short crew change, and describes medical evacuation.
- Undated
Oil Discharge from Platform Vent Boom
BSEE investigates an oil discharge from West Delta 73 C’s vent boom. Later calculations suggested closer to 111 gallons, revising an initial 660-gallon estimate. Findings identify a defective water-skimmer float and a high-level safety device that did not operate as designed, with operator fatigue contributing. Bypass could not be established.
- Undated
Fitter Fell onto Flange Bolt During Cable-Pulling Preparations
An investigation examines a fitter’s lower-leg injury during cable-pulling preparations on the Brutus tension-leg platform. His trousers snagged a pipe support bracket, causing a forward fall onto a flange bolt. Findings identify unmarked piping obstructions and inadequate task hazard analysis; fatigue may have contributed. Medical evacuation followed.
- Undated
Wireline Helper Sustained Finger Injuries During Wireline Operations
BSEE investigates two finger-injury episodes involving a wireline helper aboard Macy Lyn. After an earlier wrench injury, he entered a restricted area and adjusted wire with the unit running, fracturing his finger. Findings address omitted task hazards, missing wireline training, excessive working hours, reporting failures and inadequate supervision.
- Undated
Dry Tortugas Allision with Offshore Platform During Autopilot Navigation
BSEE investigates the Dry Tortugas allision with Viosca Knoll 817 A on 16 August 2025. The captain fell asleep while navigating on autopilot. Excessive workload may have contributed; missing watch alarms and inadequate fatigue training were identified. Platform damage prompted emergency shutdown and de-manning, with minor first-aid injuries and no pollution reported.
- Undated
Worker Injured Knee After Missing Stair While Responding to Production Alarm
An investigation records a worker’s knee injury after missing the final stair while responding to a production alarm. It identifies poor visual distinction between the step and deck, with fatigue and darkness among possible contributing factors. Delayed reporting prevented an onsite investigation and resulted in a non-compliance notice.
- Undated
Vessel Allision with Production Platform During Passenger Transport
BSEE investigates the Jacob Gerald’s allision with a West Delta production platform during passenger transport. The report identifies the captain falling asleep as the probable cause, while noting that impact speed remains unknown. It describes structural damage, a first-aid case, restricted access and engineering assessment supporting conditional continued operation.
- Undated
Four Pollution Events on Offshore Production Platform
Investigation of four pollution events at SP 49-A platform during November and December 2006. The report describes treatment-system upsets, an unattended pig-trap valve and bypassed emergency shutdown safeguards. It identifies training, supervision, unsafe practices and fatigue as probable and contributing causes, and recommends an audit emphasising facility-specific operator training.
- Undated
Close-quarters situation between general cargo vessel Hoo Finch and bulk carrier Front Viewer
Investigation synopsis of a near collision between Hoo Finch and Front Viewer north of the Humber deep water anchorage. It examines delayed avoiding action, fatigue associated with accumulated sleep debt and disrupted rest, lone watchkeeping and missed communications. Recommendations concern passage planning, fatigue, manning, lookouts and VHF radio functioning.
- Undated
Collision between container vessels Lykes Voyager and Washington Senator
Investigation of a container-ship collision in fog in the Taiwan Strait. It examines mistaken vessel identification during VHF exchanges, delayed avoiding action, passage speeds, possible fatigue and unused AIS information. Recommendations address radio identification, safe-speed guidance and monitoring, and clearer integration of AIS with other navigational information.
- Undated
Collision between oil tanker British Trent and bulk carrier Western Winner resulting in fire on British Trent with loss of 9 lives
Investigation of British Trent’s collision with Western Winner near SW Akkaert Buoy in fog, followed by a cargo fire and nine deaths. The report examines collision-rule compliance, radar use, vessel traffic services and possible fatigue, alongside inaccessible fire-pump controls, lifeboat launching limitations and rescue by pilot launches.
- Undated
Contact made by aggregates dredger Donald Redford with pier
An investigation synopsis describes Donald Redford’s collision with Hythe Pier in Southampton Water, substantially damaging the pier without injuries. It examines alcohol consumption, probable fatigue effects, possible prescribed-drug effects, lone bridge manning and delayed vessel traffic service intervention, alongside recommendations concerning alcohol misuse, working hours and medication.
- Undated
Contact made by general cargo vessel Orade with light beacon
Orade struck the Apex Light tower and grounded at the Ouse–Trent confluence during pilotage. The investigation identified poor master–pilot communication, probable selection of autopilot instead of riverpilot, inadequate monitoring and awkward bridge controls. Probable master fatigue was also identified; recommendations addressed fatigue, bridge team management and ergonomics.
- Undated
Contact made by tank barge Bruce Stone with berthed and discharging ro-ro cargo vessel Loverval
Investigation synopsis of the ballast tank barge Bruce Stone striking Loverval at Purfleet while the latter discharged cargo. The mate fell asleep on watch; fatigue, inadequate rest, alcohol and watchkeeping deficiencies contributed. No injuries or pollution occurred. Recommendations address work and rest arrangements and consideration of additional watchkeepers and watch alarms.
- Undated
Epidemiology Perspective
This presentation examines US oil and gas extraction fatality trends and motor vehicle risks. It outlines journey and fatigue management measures, considers in-vehicle monitoring and fatigue detection technologies, and explains the FOG database’s scope and sources. Industry collaboration supports targeted surveillance and responses to emerging hazards.
- Undated
Fall from yard on fore mast on sail training ship TS Royalist with loss of 1 life
These annexes provide example risk assessments and an internal review of cadet safety aloft aboard TS Royalist, rather than an investigation of the fatal incident. The review examines supervised mast climbing, staged instruction, clipping-on procedures and alternative harness arrangements, with recommendations concerning parental information, training records and feedback.