UK MAIB has published the first Safety Digest of 2025 drawing the attention of the marine community to some of the lessons arising from investigations into recent accidents and incidents.
The Digest is published to inform the merchant and fishing industries, the recreational craft community, and the public about marine accidents and the lessons to be learned. The sole purpose of the safety digest is to prevent similar accidents.
Over the last few years, the MAIB has investigated more than its fair share of collisions. Anyone who says that merchant vessel collisions just result in some bent metal needs to think again.
… said Andrew Moll OBE, Chief Inspector of Marine Accidents in the Safety Digest, bringing attention to a recent collision between the container vessel Solong and the tanker Stena Immaculate as a case in point, which he described as yet another preventable incident.
Importance of maintaining a proper lookout to avoid collisions
Moll emphasized the need to maintain a proper lookout to prevent collisions, citing the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) Rule 5. He also highlighted that stand-on vessels should not rely solely on the give-way vessel to act, and must be ready to take avoiding action when required, as per Rule 17.
The necessity of safety guidelines and communication in maritime operations
Meanwhile, Gary Doyle, Group Harbour Master at Peel Ports Group, underscored in the Safety Digest that adhering to safety guidelines is non-negotiable, and that effective communication is crucial to ensuring the workforce is fully aware and able to enforce safety protocols. He stressed that halting operations or delaying arrivals might be necessary, especially under significant commercial pressure, and that dynamic risk assessments should be conducted in a controlled manner.
The role of teamwork and communication in preventing accidents
Doyle highlighted that safety depends not only on individual actions but also on group efforts, with awareness and teamwork playing a vital role. Reflecting on past incidents, he noted that improved communication and resource utilization could have prevented tragic outcomes.
The consequences of dockside incidents during berthing and unberthing
Moreover, Doyle drew attention to the catastrophic consequences of incidents on the dockside, particularly during berthing and unberthing operations. He raised the critical question of who is monitoring the team to prevent dangerous situations or improper actions by the ship’s crew.
The importance of preparation, training, and staff investment for safety
The Group Harbour Master argued that preparation and training are key to enhancing safety. Investing in marine staff, providing appropriate training, and conducting regular emergency drills helps staff gain the confidence to act when necessary.
Mechanical breakdowns and evolving challenges in maritime safety
Reviewing incident statistics, Doyle noted that mechanical breakdowns on vessels remain a significant issue. He pointed to recent incidents like the Dali and Evergiven as reminders of the evolving challenges in maritime safety.
The significance of mental resilience in maintaining safety
Lastly, Doyle emphasized that safety involves not just physical precautions but also mental resilience. Managing stress, fatigue, and isolation is essential to ensuring sound decision-making in difficult situations. He concluded by urging a mindset shift, where caution and awareness become integral to daily operations.
