Report on the investigation of the falling of a lifeboat into the sea during a launching exercise on board the polar research vessel RRS Sir David Attenborough on Loch Buie, Isle of Mull, Scotland on 4 March 2021
Summary:
On the 4 March 2021, the port lifeboat from the Royal Research Ship Sir David Attenborough, fell into the water while the crew were practising lifeboat drills. The MAIB safety investigation found that a critical interlock device on the lifeboat davits had heavily corroded due to lack of maintenance. The interlock failed to operate correctly and subsequently caused the lifeboat to fall from the davit and into the sea with three crew on board. The investigation also found that the installation of the lifeboat davits was not in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and did not meet international regulations.
The key safety issues identified were:
- The safety equipment survey failed to identify that the davit installation was not in accordance with SOLAS regulation.
- The ship’s crew had not been trained in the operation of the davit and were unfamiliar with the correct operating procedure.
- The ship’s operator had suspended maintenance of critical equipment.
Safety recommendations:
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency is recommended to:
- Review its processes for delegating Safety Equipment Surveys to Recognised Organisations and ensure that feedback mechanisms are in place to provide the necessary assurance that the surveys have been carried out effectively and in compliance with SOLAS regulations.
- Review its policy for delegation to consider whether it is appropriate to delegate initial safety equipment surveys for newbuild vessels or those joining the UK register.
