As AMSA informs, a volunteer marine rescue vessel was towing a recreational yacht when changing weather conditions caused the bowsprit of the yacht to smash through the starboard window of the rescue vessel causing serious injuries to the master.
What happened
A volunteer marine rescue vessel was undertaking routine operations along a bayside coast when the passengers of a grounded recreational yacht requested assistance.
The rescue vessel crew set up a tow line to the bow of the yacht. The rescue vessel moved upwind, in front of the yacht. A gust of wind then pushed the rescue vessel sideways onto the bowsprit of the yacht.
The master of the rescue vessel was seated on the side impacted by the yacht. He attempted to fend the yacht off with his arm causing serious injuries to his arm. The tow was abandoned, and the rescue vessel headed to the nearest pier, where an ambulance attended to the injured master.
Investigation findings
While the crew acted with good intentions, the yacht crew were not in any imminent danger when they sought a tow. As such, the rescue vessel was attempting to salvage the yacht rather than perform a search and rescue service.
The towage operation was not conducted in accordance with the Safety Management System procedures. The master of the rescue vessel did not ensure that the Safety Management System procedures were implemented and did not have adequate situational awareness of the sea and weather conditions when the decision was made to tow the yacht. Inadequate account of for the prevailing wind and weather conditions resulted in the collision and injury.
Safety message
Towing is a complex operation, and crew involved in towing operations must be appropriately qualified and trained. Owners and masters must ensure the safety of crew, vessels and the operation of the vessel as part of their General Safety Duties.
It is critical that towage is conducted in accordance with the procedures and risk assessments, both before and during the operation. The risk assessment must ensure all aspects of the tow are considered. Monitoring the tow and the environment for changing conditions ensures situational awareness. Effective situational awareness will indicate if and when it is no longer safe to continue towing operations.
