Synopsis:Crewmembers sustain an excessive amount of injuries during lifeboat launches on cargo ships, according to Container Ship Safety Forum (CSSF). While lifeboats have met the required safety standards, CSSF says poor boat design and maintenance budgets are likely to be the cause of crewmember injuries. It is demanding safer equipment be installed on all new cargo ships to reduce future risk of lifeboat accidents. |
The Container Ship Safety Forum has stated that crew members on board cargo ships sustain a significant number of injuries during lifeboat launches, despite progress in the development of lifesaving equipment. The industry body is calling for the reinvention of lifeboats to improve crew safety.
While lifeboats meet safety standards, launching them can be a dangerous job. The British Chamber of Shipping reported 60 fatalities during lifeboat testing over a ten-year period and suggested that simulation training could improve safety. A similar report from Britain’s P&I Club a decade ago identified launching-related incidents.
Aslak Ross, Chair of the CSSF, said that while simulation and technology have advantages, lowering a lifeboat is too dangerous. The CSSF recommends that alternative designs already in use on offshore installations and for passenger evacuation should be made available to cargo ships and new vessels.
The CSSF is pushing for industry, classification societies, flag states, and suppliers to innovate for safer technology.
Source: News Network
5MTEW
Share it now
More Stories
US Coast Guard Students Demand $130 Million for Alleged Sexual Assault
Fuel Cell and CCS Study Aims to Reduce Maritime Emissions
BC Ferries Struggles with Aging Fleet After Propeller Loss of Iconic Vessel