Safety warning about crushing injuries in stowage spaces after the loss of 1 life on ro-ro ferry Clipper Pennant

Initial findings of the investigation into a fatal accident to a crewman while working on an upper vehicle deck.

From:
Marine Accident Investigation Branch
Published
4 November 2021
Vessel type:
Merchant vessel 100 gross tons or over
Report type:
Safety bulletin
Date of occurrence:
20 July 2021

Safety Bulletin 2/2021

Read our safety bulletin 2/2021: Clipper Pennant

Clipper Pennant semi-trailer parking arrangement

Summary

On 20 July 2021, the bosun of the roll-on roll-off cargo ferry Clipper Pennant suffered fatal crushing injuries during cargo loading operations. The bosun was marshalling tractor unit drivers who were loading semi-trailers when he was crushed between a moving trailer and the vessel’s structure.

Safety Issues

  • where tractor units are being used to position semi-trailers, there is an extreme risk of crushing injuries, particularly where the semi-trailer is manoeuvring close to the ship’s structure, with limited means of escape for crew on deck

Recommendations

Safety recommendations may be made after all aspects of the accident have been investigated and if applicable, will be published in the MAIB’s final report.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s Code of Safe Working Practices (COSWP).

Published 4 November 2021