Fatal Accident Caused by Lack of Watchkeeper Attention and Lookout Negligence

The UK Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) has published a report on a collision between a cargo vessel and a barge that resulted in the deaths of two crew members. The incident occurred in the Bornholmsgat traffic separation scheme off Sweden in December 2021. The report identified several safety issues, including the cargo vessel’s watchkeeper changing course without ensuring it was safe to do so, the lack of reaction or action from the watchkeepers on both vessels, the absence of lookouts on either vessel, and the distraction of the cargo vessel’s watchkeeper by a personal tablet computer. There is also a suggestion that the watchkeeper may have been influenced by alcohol. The Chief Inspector of Marine Accidents emphasized the importance of having an additional lookout on the bridge and the need for seafarers to act professionally and avoid distractions. The report recommends that the Maritime and Coastguard Agency clarify the requirement for an additional lookout on UK ships and all ships in UK waters.

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