The MAIB has published its report into the tragic fatal accident on the ro-ro vessel Seatruck Pace when a crewman sadly fell through a vehicle ramp hatch on 17 December 2018.
The report identifies the following safety issues but makes no recommendations due to the actions now taken by the ship's manager:
- the crewman crossed a safety barrier protecting an open hatch
- the risk of falling was accepted having probably taken similar risks in the past
- work practices indicated that adherence to the vessel’s safety procedures was based on routine rather than of understanding and conviction
Shortly after 0820 on 17 December 2018, the assistant bosun on board the ro-ro freight ferry Seatruck Pace was found on the ramp between the main vehicle deck and the lower hold, having apparently fallen 4.5m, along with a heavy metal trestle. Several crew heard the sound of the trestle landing, but there were no witnesses. The assistant bosun was treated at the scene by the ferry’s crew and paramedics and then taken to hospital. He died 3 days later.
https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/5d161ad440f0b609ccf7e4c8/MAIBInvReport9_2019.pdf