Sector
Marine Industry
Shipping and marine service industry applicability.
Newest 100 Documents
All 2,166 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.
- 202614 May
High Potential Near Miss: Dropped object due to contact with crane sheave
A vessel crane near miss involved a DP beacon striking sheave protection bars, detaching with its holder and falling to the deck. Nobody was injured. The flash examines wire-mounted attachment, absent secondary retention, unconsidered management of change and inadequate access controls, highlighting crane limits and third-party equipment coordination.
- 202614 May
Machinery damaged through improper maintenance technique
An offshore vessel audit identified a fuel oil purifier that failed to self-discharge. Investigation found incompatible component swaps and bowl damage from improper dismantling without specified tools. The flash highlights adherence to manufacturer instructions, compatible genuine parts, planned maintenance intervals, repair records and stop-work authority.
- 202614 May
MSF: Fast Rescue craft (FRC) washed overboard and lost at sea
An unexpected wave washed a vessel’s fast rescue craft overboard after driving it upwards against its davit. Worn, under-dimensioned lashings tore apart, and the hook arrangement suffered impact-related deformation. The flash describes subsequent recovery, enhanced securing inspections, possible additional heavy-weather lashings and planned replacement of lashing straps.
- 202614 May
Shifting cargo and deck spill during heavy weather
During heavy-weather transit, a brine storage tank shifted approximately 0.5 m, struck a crash rail and damaged its manifold valve, spilling brine onto the deck. The flash identifies slackening lashing chains and inadequate securing, and recommends redundant lashings, impact protection for vulnerable fittings and review of weather risk assessments.
- 20266 May
Catastrophic engine failure and subsequent fire on board the site investigation vessel Kommandor Susan
Investigates a diesel generator failure and engine-room fire aboard Kommandor Susan during sea trials in the Firth of Forth. The report links premature bearing wear to substitute components and inappropriate extended service intervals, examines contractor oversight, and describes successful firefighting alongside emergency anchoring difficulties caused by dependence on electrical power.
- 202628 Apr
Diver entanglement – umbilical caught around an anode
A diver’s umbilical snagged on a conductor-shaft anode at 18 msw after tidal current pushed it towards the structure. Slack allowed in-water decompression to continue while a stand-by diver freed the line. Planned diving time was not exceeded. The flash highlights attention to local environmental conditions and situational awareness.
- 202628 Apr
Failure of moonpool railing system caused man overboard situation in moonpool
A degraded removable railing post failed when a crew member lost balance beside a moonpool. They caught a guidewire and were rescued with a boathook, sustaining a dislocated shoulder. The flash examines inspection omissions, unclear responsibilities and ineffective hazard follow-up, recommending secured barriers, preventive maintenance and pre-task assessment of barrier failure.
- 202628 Apr
Heaving line snap-back causes injury
A tensioned heaving line broke during berthing, causing quayside workers to fall. One suffered a head impact after an unsecured helmet chin strap allowed the helmet to shift. The flash identifies missing inspections, congestion and inadequate supervision, and recommends line checks, safer positioning and stopping unsafe work.
- 202615 Apr
Death of seafarer due to fall from crane cabin
A seafarer cleaning a cargo crane cabin on an anchored vessel fell 12 m to the deck and died. The investigation identified probable window seal failure following removal of protective grating. Possible corrosion and glass weakening are discussed, alongside lessons on barrier integrity, structural inspection, routine-task risk assessment and warning signage.
- 202615 Apr
LTI – crew member squeezed between buoy and cargo rail
An anchor-handling crew member was trapped against a cargo rail when releasing a remaining lashing allowed a partly interconnected buoy to spring back. The flash describes crane positioning, rescue using a tugger line and aft capstan, and helicopter evacuation. Lessons emphasise checking residual securing and stored energy before moving complex loads.
- 202615 Apr
Unauthorised boarding and theft from vessel at anchor
This safety flash describes theft from crew cabins after unauthorised night-time boarding of an anchored vessel. It identifies inadequate vigilance, unsecured accommodation access and insufficient deck monitoring. Lessons address watchkeeping, locked non-emergency doors, security rounds, Ship Security Plan compliance, crew briefings and security drills.
- 202626 Mar
Fatal accident to a crew member on board the roll-on/roll-off cargo vessel Laureline
Investigates a crew member’s fatal crushing between a reversing trailer and Laureline’s structure during cargo operations at Purfleet. CCTV review and scene inspection informed analysis of driver–crew communication, danger-zone definitions, training and supervision. The report examines procedural weaknesses, subsequent safety actions and recommendations for an industry vehicle-deck code of practice.
- 202624 Mar
Dropped object – strop parted over sharp edge
During a yard stay, an 8.6-ton crane cylinder fell through a vessel’s deck after sharp edges cut a soft sling despite firehose protection. No personnel were injured, but painters were nearby. The flash discusses hard rigging, conditional sling-capacity reduction, risk reassessment and permits addressing conflicting work.
- 202624 Mar
MAIB: Sinking of tug Biter with loss of two lives
This safety flash summarises MAIB findings on Biter’s fatal girting and capsize during passenger-vessel towage off Greenock. It highlights incomplete operational exchanges, inadequate pilot training, speed-related line loading, ineffective gob-rope protection and an open hatch. Recommendations address risk assessments, gob-rope rigging, manoeuvring speeds and tug-master and pilot training.
- 202624 Mar
MSF: High potential near miss during FRC maintenance
During sling replacement aboard a vessel, a fast rescue craft slipped from its davit cradle. Two crew members jumped into the sea and were recovered unharmed. The flash describes inadequate securing, a failed bowsing-line carabiner and gaps in work planning, including missing procedures, risk assessment and permit authorisation.
- 202617 Mar
Battery power bank explodes in cabin
A power bank exploded during overnight charging in a vessel cabin. Its owner extinguished the fire with a wet towel, with minor damage to cabin fittings and furniture reported. The flash highlights restrictions on unattended charging and recommends certified charging equipment from reputable suppliers.
- 202617 Mar
Failure of A-frame fold-down platform
A hinged A-frame platform failed during sheave-block load checks aboard a vessel alongside for mobilisation, leaving a crew member suspended in their harness with minor injuries. The flash identifies missing cotter pins, hinge design flaws and galvanic corrosion, alongside omitted change management, scheduled maintenance and platform inspections.
- 202617 Mar
MSF: Unsecured bulk hose near miss
An unsecured bulk hose slipped off a platform supply vessel’s deck during transfer in challenging weather, narrowly missing a crew member. The flash identifies communication problems, insufficient hose length and heavy weather as contributing factors, and stresses confirmed communications, radio maintenance and securing suitable equipment before operations.
- 202617 Mar
Unsafe handling of gas cylinders
A Chief Mate identified unsecured compressed gas cylinders on the quayside before planned gas cutting and welding during vessel maintenance. The flash discusses contractor awareness, perceived time pressure and unavailable securing arrangements, highlighting approved racks, restraint, contractor coordination and crew confidence to stop unsafe work.
- 202611 Mar
Loss of propulsion in heavy weather experienced by the passenger vessel Spirit of Discovery, leading to over 100 injuries and one fatality
Investigation of Spirit of Discovery’s repeated propulsion losses in heavy weather in the Bay of Biscay. It examines pod overspeed protection, automatic pod parking, weather routing, furniture securing and medical response. Violent vessel motion injured 115 passengers; one passenger sustained a spinal injury and died four days later.
- 20263 Mar
Cook temporarily trapped in freezer
A vessel’s cook became trapped in a walk-in freezer when the unsecured door closed during adverse weather and the internal release button was inoperable following moisture ingress. Crew opened the door externally without injury. Actions included weekly maintenance inspections, greasing the release mechanism, revised entry procedures and crew training.
- 20263 Mar
Dropped object: falling shim plate while lowering A-frame
A shim plate fell 15 m onto a crane cabin roof while a vessel’s A-frame was being lowered. The unsecured plates had remained in place through dirt and corrosion. The flash examines earlier modification and maintenance, missing hazard analyses, subsequent securing, and checks for components affected by changing crane inclination.
- 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.
- 20263 Mar
W2W gangway bumper damaged during demonstration
A walk-to-work gangway bumper broke off during an emergency-retraction demonstration while connected to an offshore wind turbine transition piece. Vessel movement during an approximately one-second uncompensated delay overloaded the bolts. Nobody was harmed. Actions included crew refamiliarisation, revised demonstration procedures and manufacturer evaluation of a possible software revision requiring class approval.
- 202613 Feb
Fall from height during mooring due to rope tension reaction
A tanker’s propeller caught a mooring rope, loading a jetty dolphin platform until the line parted. The platform recoiled and a kneeling worker fell onto a lower platform about 1.8 metres below, sustaining minor scratches. The flash examines barrier design, body positioning, communication and keeping clear of tensioned lines.
- 202613 Feb
Missing protection – progressive wear on hydraulic hoses causes damage
An inspection identified hydraulic and fuel hoses rubbing against surrounding surfaces and sharp edges, with abrasion and missing insulation. The flash discusses routing clearance, securing, protective sleeves and routine inspection to address progressive wear and potential leaks, fire and machinery failure. It also highlights unsecured deck plates.
- 202613 Feb
Positive: damage to Fast Rescue Craft davit wire rope caught before failure
Routine checks revealed a fracture at the socket termination of a fast rescue craft davit wire rope before failure occurred. An authorised service provider inspected and repaired the rope. The flash emphasises monthly maintenance, checks before every use, attention to load-bearing components and discussion of defects during crew safety meetings.
- 202613 Feb
Small engine room fire – flammable object ignited
A small flammable foreign object ignited during post-drydock engine load testing. The crew stopped the engine, isolated fuel and extinguished the fire; nobody was injured. The flash identifies poor housekeeping and absent post-maintenance checks, emphasising machinery-space cleanliness, checks before load testing and regular emergency drills.
- 202612 Feb
Girting and capsize of tug Biter with the loss of two lives while assisting passenger vessel Hebridean Princess
Investigation of Biter’s fatal girting and capsize while assisting Hebridean Princess on the River Clyde. It examines towing speed, bridle loading, gob-rope securing, watertight integrity, operational exchanges and training. The precise reason for gob-rope rendering remained unresolved; post-salvage testing found the towing-hook release mechanism functional.
- 202612 Feb
Safety warning (video) issued following the capsize and sinking of the tug Biter while assisting the passenger vessel Hebridean Princess with the loss of two lives
This MAIB bulletin announces a video sharing lessons from the fatal capsize and sinking of Biter while assisting Hebridean Princess. It places the investigation within a series of conventional tug capsizes and recommends that named shipping, harbour, pilotage, tug and workboat associations distribute the video to their members.
- 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
CHIRP Superyacht FEEDBACK 11 (February 2026)
Six superyacht reports examine an unpermitted hull repair, a close-quarters encounter, grounding on uncharted coral, fuel-handling failure, hazardous acetone use in a bilge sump and premature anchor release. Commentary addresses reporting culture, collision avoidance, passage planning, fuel purification, respiratory protection limitations and confined-space precautions, emphasising communication and challenges to unsafe decisions.
- 202622 Jan
Dropped GRP cover during subsea lifting
A GRP manifold cover detached during subsea relocation and dropped approximately 7 m, without injury or damage to the manifold or bottom structure. Findings identified excessive loading during a crane mode transition and erroneous lifting-rod calculations. Revised lift planning removed the mode switch and used deployment lifting points; keeping divers clear prevented potential serious injury.
- 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.
- 202622 Jan
Mechanic got burns due to fire in portable generator
A marine mechanic sustained minor right-arm burns after spilled petrol ignited during portable-generator refuelling at a dock workshop. Dragging the generator produced a friction spark. The flash identifies missing rubber bushings, absent procedures and risk assessment, inadequate maintenance and housekeeping, and difficult access to fire extinguishers.
- 202622 Jan
Petrol driven equipment left stored in an emergency generator room
A vessel safety round identified a petrol-containing snowblower stored in the emergency generator room, creating fire and explosion risks and obstructing access to critical equipment. The equipment was relocated. The flash recommends designated storage for flammables and keeping machinery spaces clear, with storage procedures and inspections identified for review.
- 202622 Jan
Some positive findings and good practices
This flash presents four positive marine safety observations: thorough safety-zone entry checks on a PSV, a fabricated mesh guard protecting an open mud-tank hatch during ventilation, simulator-based officer training in Papua New Guinea, and crew-led deck upkeep. It reinforces procedural discipline, hatch protection, competence development and maintenance beyond dry-dock schedules.
- 202612 Jan
LTI – back injury
An Able Seaman suffered a lower-back injury while lowering a crew transfer vessel’s gangway onto the quay. The flash examines lone manual handling, crane-position constraints, uncertain gangway weight and inadequate procedural risk controls. Lessons include ideally using two people when mechanical aids cannot be used, reviewing assessments and verifying gangway weights.
- 202612 Jan
NTSB: Engine room fire – put things back properly after maintenance
An IMCA flash summarises a fatal engine-room fire aboard a dredging vessel. NTSB attributed the probable cause to lubricating oil spraying from a generator and igniting off a nearby running engine after a plug was not reinstated. Lessons emphasise post-maintenance inspection, correct reassembly and local test starts where appropriate and practical.
- 202612 Jan
Spontaneous explosion of a plastic ruler
A plastic ruler spontaneously fractured in a vessel’s office drawer, ejecting fragments across the floor without injury. The flash discusses likely stored tension and brittle material behaviour, highlighting potential eye injuries and cuts. Recommendations include replacing acrylic rulers, discarding damaged ones and avoiding tightly packed drawers or solvent exposure.
- 2026
CHIRP Maritime FEEDBACK 82 (Spring 2026)
Maritime reports examine solvent use in bilges, navigation audit findings, refused fuel-tank entry, twin-lanyard misuse and obstructed pilot access. Further cases address partial power loss linked to an unannounced software update and pressure over navigation decisions. Commentary emphasises equipment limitations, safe attachment, supplier communication and supportive bridge leadership.
- 202522 Dec
Vessel facilities subject to external hydrocarbon hazards guidance note
Guidance on safety cases for vessel facilities exposed to external hydrocarbon hazards. It addresses facility descriptions, formal safety assessment, ignition prevention, gas detection, emergency shutdown and evacuation arrangements. Supporting analyses examine fire, explosion and emergency-system survivability, while the Montara case illustrates shortcomings in preparedness and external-hazard assessment.
- 202518 Dec
BSEE: Anchor-handling causes damage to subsea equipment and triggers gas release
An anchor wire snagged a subsea well during recovery by a dive support vessel, subsequently detaching an annulus valve and releasing gas. The flash summarises BSEE findings on inadequate planning, coordination and emergency preparation, with recommendations for consideration covering readiness checks, change management, communication and current-aware anchor-handling plans.
- 202518 Dec
Dropped object – Bailout cylinder inside diving bell
During saturation diving preparations aboard a vessel, an unsecured bailout set fell approximately 2.5 metres through the bell opening, striking the Transfer Under Pressure door. Nobody was injured; the cylinder was damaged. The flash identifies deficient securing and checks, and records replacement of S-hooks, formal instructions, revised hazard analyses and retraining.
- 202518 Dec
Man overboard in port: Seaman falls from quay access ladder
A seaman climbing a damaged quay access ladder became distracted by moving mooring lines, lost balance and fell onto the gunwale before entering the water. Recovery was achieved without serious injury. The flash highlights continued use of defective access, concentration, stop-work intervention and consideration of quayside conditions in task planning.
- 202518 Dec
Two Walk-to-Work gangway incidents
Two related Walk-to-Work gangway incidents occurred during offshore wind personnel transfers. Hydraulic stiction caused uncontrolled slewing and a collision with the vessel crane. Subsequent modifications introduced an automation logic error that prevented retraction during connection preparation. The flash describes hydraulic adjustments, revised operating procedures and manufacturer testing; neither incident caused injury.
- 20254 Dec
Dropped pallet during cargo transfer
A plastic pallet carrying lubricant drums tipped and fell during a barge-to-vessel lift at an anchorage, rupturing drums and spilling oil on deck without injury or structural damage. The flash examines inadequate securing, procedural non-compliance and crew coordination, and describes improved load checks, secondary securing, toolbox meetings and supervision.
- 20254 Dec
Fire hazard: missing splash tapes on fuel hose connections
This safety flash describes missing splash tapes on engine fuel hose connections in newly delivered and older vessels. It explains their role in preventing fuel spray reaching hot surfaces, identifies commissioning omissions and failures to reinstall tapes after maintenance, and stresses acceptance checks and restoration of safety details.
- 20254 Dec
Fire in the engine room – fuel spray fire
Fuel sprayed onto hot surfaces of a starboard main engine after maintenance left return-pipe bolts missing and protective barriers absent. Crew extinguished the fire without injuries or pollution, but water mist failed and shutdown actions were delayed. Lessons emphasise post-maintenance checks, splash protection and familiarity with emergency equipment.
- 20254 Dec
Positive – Enhancing safety communication through digital monitors
This positive safety flash describes digital monitors installed across a member’s vessels and offices to provide continuous access to lessons, policies and HSE updates in local languages. It highlights improved awareness and engagement, multilingual inclusion, stronger safety culture and reduced dependence on printed materials.
- 20254 Dec
Vessel ran aground
A vessel grounded in a narrow channel at low tide during a short voyage, then refloated without damage, injury or pollution. The flash examines shortcomings in passage planning and watchkeeping, including bridge distractions and overconfidence in familiar waters. Lessons emphasise approved passage plans, briefings, tidal knowledge and under-keel clearance.
- 2025Dec
CHIRP Superyacht FEEDBACK 8 (December 2025)
Superyacht incident reports examine a failed mooring attachment, captain harassment, generator starter battery explosions, collision at anchor, unsafe pilot boarding arrangements, unprotected work aloft and defective life rafts. Commentary discusses battery capacity and ventilation, engineering handovers, equipment servicing and testing, reporting concerns and organisational safety culture.
- 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 Nov
Condensation Hazard on Electrical Panel (440V)
An inspection found condensation dripping onto a 440V electrical panel in a vessel’s engine room. The flash explains how chilled surfaces above the panel and absent protective measures allowed water contact. It highlights potential electrical consequences, preventive design measures and regular checks beyond scheduled inspections.
- 202517 Nov
Slipped on stairs, broken finger
A worker slipped while descending stairs and fractured the tip of his right ring finger when his supporting hand was trapped beneath his weight. The flash describes onboard first aid and same-day treatment arrangements, and stresses handrail use and three points of contact on stairs.
- 202517 Nov
Stay in the right place – the importance of personal positioning
Two events illustrate unsafe personal positioning: a seafarer approached a deck edge during berthing to improve visibility, and workers pushed a suspended load during lifting alongside. The flash discusses communication, barriers, hands-free lifting tools, keeping outside load impact zones, clear decks and stopping unsafe work.
- 20257 Nov
ATSB: Undocumented modification contributed to steam burns
An oil tanker maintenance team suffered burns when hot condensate escaped during steam valve bonnet removal. The ATSB found insufficient cooling time and an undocumented drain-line modification that likely weakened isolation. The flash highlights formal management of change, recording and assessing changes, adequate cooling and visual confirmation of isolation.
- 20257 Nov
Bunker hose obstructing emergency exit
A bunker hose on an offshore vessel prevented a stern emergency hatch from opening, potentially blocking escape. The flash discusses hose routing, crew supervision and incorporating engine-room escape into bunkering risk assessments and toolbox talks. It stresses keeping exits clear and asks whether barriers or signage could prevent obstruction.
- 20257 Nov
Hull crack arising from vibration
An aluminium vessel continued operating despite propeller vibration, later developing a skeg crack and water ingress into the steering room. Crew fitted a cement box, and management required repairs. The flash highlights aluminium’s susceptibility to repetitive stress and urges investigation of changed or increased vibration.
- 20257 Nov
Smoke in the battery room
A vessel alongside experienced smoke from overheated nickel-cadmium batteries supplying a DP-system UPS. Crews isolated circuits and removed batteries for cooling, without injury or escalation. The flash examines uncertain causes, restricted cabinet access and incomplete records, highlighting battery inventories, detection, emergency training and installation improvements.
- 20257 Nov
Watertight door and emergency hatch found open at sea
An offshore audit found engine-room watertight doors and an emergency hatch open at sea, compromising protection against flooding. The flash discusses possible heat-related shortcuts and gaps in crew awareness of closure requirements. It calls for closed barriers at sea, regular training refreshers and proper ventilation rather than opening safety closures.
- 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.
- 202527 Oct
Injury after fall from vertical ladder
A crew member carrying a fire patrol device lost grip while climbing a vertical ladder and suffered a minor eyebrow cut after striking a steel bund. The flash examines inadequate ladder design and routine-task risk awareness, identifying possible ladder extensions, anti-slip paint, carrying aids and pre-task discussions.
- 202527 Oct
Japan Transport Safety Board: two confined space fatalities
An IMCA flash summarises a Japanese bulk-carrier incident in which two stevedores collapsed during unloading; one died and one was seriously injured. Low oxygen and elevated carbon dioxide were likely linked to palm kernel shell fermentation. It highlights absent atmospheric testing, inadequate work controls and recommendations for training and cargo risk profiling.
- 202527 Oct
LTI: serious injury to thumb when pipe fell during maintenance
A vessel engineer sustained partial thumb amputation when a grey water pipe fell about 1.4 m during dismantling, trapping his thumb against a supporting clamp plate. The flash examines inadequate securing and hand positioning, recommending primary and secondary retention and a workplace culture that enables staff to challenge unsafe practices.
- 202527 Oct
MSF: Burn to arm from contact with tumble dryer
A crew member sustained a minor lower-arm burn after opening a tumble dryer mid-cycle and touching its metal door frame before cooling was complete. Follow-up tests examined frame temperatures and cooling time. The flash highlights waiting for programme completion and asks whether a temperature-dependent door interlock would improve safety.
- 202527 Oct
On a more positive note…
Fleet visits identified positive safety practices, including an engaging bridge toolbox talk reinforcing stop-work authority before entry into a 500m zone. The flash highlights well-organised inspection and maintenance of life-saving equipment, advance preparation of firefighting clothing and boots, and the importance of regular drills and crew training for emergency readiness.
- 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
Crane cab access platform collapsed
A vessel crane’s cab access platform collapsed as the operator climbed the ladder, causing a fall partially mitigated by its enclosure without injury. Hidden weld cracking and corrosion caused the failure. The flash questions inspection access, alternative testing and contractor oversight, and stresses surface preparation before repainting.
- 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.
- 20252 Oct
Positive: Worn mooring lines spotted and replaced before they parted
Hourly inspections aboard a vessel alongside during strong winds identified a mooring rope close to breaking. The crew replaced it and placed wooden boards beneath ropes rubbing against a bridge structure. The flash highlights vigilance during adverse weather and proposes jetty protection to reduce rope friction.
- 20252 Oct
USCG: Lithium-Ion battery system installations
Summarises USCG advice following a lithium-ion battery bank fire on a passenger vessel caused by overheated, loosely crimped lugs. Discusses thermal runaway, toxic off-gases and suppression difficulties, alongside engineering review, battery management, condition inspections, maintenance, crew competence and fire drills. No injuries and minimal vessel damage were reported.
- 20252 Oct
Worker suffered eye injuries in electric arc incident
A vessel electro-technical officer suffered light eye burns from an electrical arc while disconnecting a shore power cable that appeared still energised. Initial findings identified inadequate vessel–quayside communication and documentation. The flash emphasises voltage testing, isolation, improved communication, risk assessments and toolbox talks.
- 202530 Sep
BSEE Safety Alert 508 -Review anchor-handling plans now Incident damages subsea equipment triggers gas release
A diver support vessel recovering bow anchors snagged a subsea well with an anchor wire. Attempts to free it detached the annulus valve, releasing gas. The alert identifies deficient planning, contractor coordination and emergency readiness, and recommends that operators and contractors consider stronger pre-mobilisation checks, SIMOPS arrangements and anchor-handling plans.
- 202525 Sep
Collision between the tender to Isabell Princess of the Sea and the RIB Vega, resulting in one fatality
Investigation of a fatal collision between a yacht tender and the drifting RIB Vega in Göcek harbour. It examines unsafe speed, night visibility, unused chart-plotter information, possible alcohol impairment and unclear command authority. The passenger died from collision injuries and drowning; subsequent actions addressed tender operations, authority and navigation-light compliance.
- 202518 Sep
Auxiliary engine room fire on board the ro-ro cargo ship Finnmaster
Investigation of Finnmaster’s auxiliary engine room fire during departure from Hull. Partial fuel injection pump coupling failure and leaking hot exhaust preceded fuel hose failure and ignition. The report examines defective emergency power, incomplete carbon dioxide suppression, maintenance and supplier assurance, system testing and crew response. No injuries were reported.
- 202517 Sep
Handling alarms on the bridge – a DP incident
During scrap-metal recovery, a DPO inadvertently selected an adjacent command while trying to silence an alarm, leaving the vessel in manual mode with 10 metres of uncontrolled movement. The flash examines alarm overload, a frozen panel and inconsistent silencing arrangements, emphasising interface design, procedural reinforcement and openness within a no-blame culture.
- 202517 Sep
SWL plate dropped from crane block
A safety flash describes a 0.9 kg SWL plate falling from an auxiliary hook block onto a vessel’s main deck, with its fall height unconfirmed. Suspected galvanic corrosion caused rivet failure. It highlights missed inspection hazards, undocumented fittings, checks of other plates and a brought-forward third-party DROPS inspection.
- 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.
- 202517 Sep
Unsafe Lifting practices during dry dock
This safety flash describes a stopped attempt to lift 14 empty oil drums with only a web sling during dry-dock vessel repairs. It identifies inadequate contractor oversight, absent task-specific risk assessment and communication, and underestimated falling-load hazards. Lessons emphasise closer supervision, lifting training, toolbox talks and stop-work authority.
- 20254 Sep
MSF: Watertight door fatality
Reports a fatality involving an individual found between a sliding hydraulic watertight door and its frame at a marine worksite. Causes remained under investigation. The flash explains watertight door functions and operating arrangements, and prompts crews to reflect on equipment risks and the adequacy of safeguards.
- 20254 Sep
Two hand injuries caused during mooring
Two mooring incidents involved a hand trapped by a tightening line during rough weather and a finger crushed between a rope and handrail, requiring amputation. Lessons address dedicated fender mooring points, task risk assessment, supervisory roles, stopping unsafe work and considering postponement when weather causes vessel movement.
- 202521 Aug
Serious injury to a passenger on the sea safari rigid inflatable boat Lundy Explorer
Investigates a passenger’s permanent spinal injury during wave-induced slamming aboard Lundy Explorer at Ilfracombe. Examines forward jockey seating, passenger bracing, safety briefings, sea-condition decisions and regulatory gaps. Records restrictions on forward-seat use and recommends improved operating procedures and risk assessments within a safety management system.
- 202514 Aug
Shore-side crane boom collides with vessel mast
A dock crane boom struck a vessel mast during shipyard lifting, dislodging wind and GPS sensors onto the deck. The flash describes poor visibility, ineffective banksman positioning and crane movement without signals. Discussion actions emphasise banksman roles, clear communication and providing dockyard management with vessel layout and dimensions before operations.
- 202531 Jul
Diver sustains laceration to right hand
A diver retrieving tooling during air/nitrox diving at 18 m suffered a deep right-thumb laceration when vessel movement parted a weak link and drew his hand towards a snatch block. The flash describes downline slack, hand positioning, full recovery, and changes to the downline arrangement and tool bag to reduce line-of-fire exposure.
- 202531 Jul
Positive – vigilant watch practices
This safety flash highlights a member’s positive observation of bridge watchkeeping during a complex operation close to five fixed offshore platforms. Over three days and nights, officers of the watch and bridge crew refrained from using mobile devices while on bridge duty.
- 20253 Jul
LTI: Hand injury during capstan maintenance
A crew member suffered a serious hand injury while greasing a vessel capstan when rotation trapped his hand between an underside wire clamp and the deck. The flash examines difficult access and grease-gun design, describing grease-point extensions, clamp removal, revised maintenance procedures and wider inspections for line-of-fire hazards.
- 20253 Jul
Near miss: worker suffers electric shock
A vessel crew member received an electric shock during oil clean-up on a crane pedestal after brushing an exposed, energised cable. The worker was unharmed. Failed assurance following yard work left disconnected cables live. Actions address electrical commissioning oversight, preferably assigning work to company electricians rather than third-party contractors.
- 20253 Jul
Unsafe use of electrical equipment in cabins
Crew aboard a vessel used two-pin chargers directly in three-pin accommodation sockets without suitable adaptors. This flash explains potential socket damage, loose connections, arcing, overheating and fire. It recommends compatible adaptors, crew guidance on plug compatibility, regular socket checks, appliance testing and tagging, and easier reporting of concerns.
- 2025Jul
CHIRP Superyacht FEEDBACK 10
Six superyacht reports examine dismissed safety concerns, inconsistent fall protection, unsafe pilot boarding, crew abandonment, a mooring-line injury and chemical burns. Commentary addresses leadership, reporting protection, procedural compliance and task risk assessment. An appended flag-state flyer reinforces safe working at height, equipment training and intervention in unsafe work.
- 202518 Jun
Dropped object hazard: access hatch to the communication dome
A scheduled mast inspection identified a detached communication-dome hatch. Its primary securing mechanism had failed, while an undersized secondary lanyard used adhesive pads that detached. The flash recommends mechanically fixed, appropriately rated secondary retention, anti-loosening measures, planned maintenance and procedural double checks after work.
- 202518 Jun
Lock out/Tag out and unauthorised electrical connections/disconnections
This flash describes missing electrical and mechanical lockouts identified during a vessel engine-room audit, alongside unauthorised electrical disconnections and bypasses. It emphasises suitable lockout devices, documented approval of temporary modifications, restoration checks and clear handovers. Possible links to dynamic positioning trials are presented as assumptions rather than established causes.
- 202518 Jun
MAIB: Is your Lead-Acid battery safe?
A barge crew member escaped injury when four lead-acid batteries exploded during generator starting. The steel locker contained the explosion. Investigation identified batteries unsuitable for continuous float charging. The flash highlights documented maintenance and replacement records, ventilated battery stowage and corrosion-resistant, flame/explosion-proof compartment lighting.
- 202518 Jun
NTSB: Vessel crane contact with shore-side crane
This safety flash summarises an NTSB investigation into a crane barge contacting a dockside crane while being pushed at North Charleston Terminal. The probable cause was failure to identify the overhead hazard. Lessons highlight projecting dockside cranes, vessel air draft and bridge crews’ knowledge of vessel dimensions.
- 20254 Jun
Injury to thumb during lifting operations
During vessel demobilisation alongside, a crew member injured his thumb when a crane-held load was lowered onto a flatbed trailer while he repositioned a wooden block. The flash identifies unclear signalling and possible perceived pressure, and recommends lift planning, toolbox talks, agreed communication protocols and safe positioning around loads.
- 20254 Jun
LTI: Back injury in Confined Space (Tank Entry)
A worker injured their lower back after losing hand grip while exiting a confined compartment feet-first through a lightening hole during planned maintenance. The flash examines access ergonomics and gaps in risk assessment, describing additional grab handles, possible platforms under investigation and a review of confined-space entry procedures.
- 20254 Jun
MAIB: LTI – fingers lost during mooring operations
A crew member suffered severe finger injuries while resecuring a tender’s mooring rope during a river transfer. Unequal freeboards produced a steep rope angle, and passing-boat wash moved the tender. The flash highlights entrapment risks and conditional assessment of cleat design and fitting for routine operations.
- 202516 May
MSF: Multiple LTIs - Vessel gangway fell from quay causing injuries
Five workers were injured when a container vessel’s gangway moved off the quay; one fell into the water. Tidal movement had positioned the gangway partly over a ladder void. The flash identifies absent supervision, slack hoist wires and faded markings, and presents suggestions on positioning, procedures, checks, signage and correct PPE use.