Over the past 20 months, three accidents involving British citizens aboard Egyptian submersibles in the Red Sea have caught the attention of the UK’s Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB). These incidents, including capsizing and a fatal fire, have raised concerns about the safety of submersible operations and the need for stricter regulations.
A crew member aboard the Equinox Seas tragically lost his life after falling into an open ventilation shaft during maintenance at the ONEX Syros Shipyards in Syros, Greece. The incident highlights the dangers of ship maintenance and serves as a reminder of the importance of safety protocols to prevent such accidents in the future.
It is crucial for owners, operators, and masters of fishing vessels with side doors to conduct a comprehensive risk assessment to prevent water ingress. Addressing safety concerns and promptly implementing corrective actions, especially focusing on the door retention mechanism, is vital. Mitigating flooding risks and maintaining open communication are essential for safety.
On July 12, 2024, the crew of the fishing vessel “Kingfisher” faced a dangerous situation when one of their sailors was pulled overboard while setting traps. Thanks to his personal flotation device and the quick response of his colleagues, the sailor was successfully rescued. This incident emphasizes the importance of safety and preparedness at sea.
