Published on: 27 May 2021
The Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) has been conducting an ongoing investigation into a fatal accident that happened between a high-speed passenger RIB, Seadogz and a navigation buoy on the 22 August 2020 in Southampton Water.
The MAIB has produced an interim report highlighting a number of safety lessons that were identified within the investigation, in an effort to reduce the possibility of a recurrence this summer.
The report was made available to the general public on the 20 May 2021 and can be found here.
The 2021 Seadogz interim report covers:
- Background of the Seadogz RIB charter boat
- Narrative of what happened during the incident at different stages
- Injuries and damage sustained to the passengers and the boat
It also discusses:
- Initial findings of the accident
- The Passenger Safety on Small Commercial High-Speed Craft & Experience Rides voluntary Code of Practice
- Urgent Safety consideration
- Recommendations (which can be found below)
A recommendation (2021/109M) has been made to ALL UK operators of small commercial high-speed craft such as RIBs (Rigid Inflatable Boats), sports boats and other vessels engaged in carrying passengers on trips and charters to:
Review the risk assessments for the operations of their vessels and take measures, as appropriate, to ensure that they comply with the safe working practices and standards contained in the Passenger Safety on Small Commercial High-Speed Craft & Experience Rides voluntary Code of Practice. Where an operator cannot comply with the provisions outlined in the Code of Practice, steps should be taken to mitigate against risk, and details of those measures included in the relevant operating procedures.
British Marine urges all members who are involved with extreme RIB experiences, and any other small commercial high-speed craft experiences to read through this report and take the necessary actions and/or implement suitable risk management procedures.
The British Marine technical team is on hand to assist members with further queries, and can be contacted via technical@britishmarine.co.uk.
