Transport Malta has issued safety investigation report on MV SALUZI fall over board of a pilot boat deckhand on21 July 2015.
On 21 July 2015, Saluzi passenger ship was embarking a pilot in moderate to rough seas. Before the pilot had stepped on the pilot ladder, the pilot boat dropped into the trough of the sea and beneath the ship’s round hull. As the boat came up, the pilot and the deckhand got caught between the pilot boat and the ship’s hull. Seriously injured, both collapsed on the deck of the pilot boat. The pilot was able to hold on board but the deckhand fell into the rough sea. By the time the search and rescue operations by Saluzi were called off at 1721, the deckhand remained missing.
The Marine Safety Investigation Unit established that on account of the hull design, the pilot boarding arrangement provided by Saluzi was not compliant with the relevant SOLAS requirements.
Actions Taken
- A specific risk assessment was carried out for pilot transfer arrangement;
- In view of the inherent hazards in the use of the pilot ladder because of the specific shape of the hull, a permanent standing order has been issued by the master requiring that pilots only embark by the accommodation ladder. New arrival and departure checklists have been prepared;
- New instructions on the saving of voyage data have been issued and posted in close proximity of the VDR.
Recommendations The MSIU has issued five recommendations to the Company and Haiphong Port Authority aimed to address man overboard situations and safe pilot transfer. Further details may be found in the investigation report below Source & Image credit: Transport Malta
14/2016_R1 ensure that crew members are thoroughly familiar with man overboard drills.
14/2016_R2 fit DSC distress alert on board its pilot boats;
14/2016_R3 provide appropriate safety harnesses for use by deck hands;
14/2016_R4 ensure that pilot boat crew appreciates the importance of using the outboard route to access the pilot ladder;
14/2016_R5 promulgate procedures and action to initiate prompt search and rescue operations. 
