Safety bulletin 3/2023 published
Warning issued to owners and operators of small commercial passenger vessels following a serious passenger injury during a rigid inflatable boat (RIB) ride.
Today, we have issued a safety bulletin urging the review of operations, risk assessments and pre-departure briefings in line with current guidance to ensure passenger safety.
Chief Inspector of Marine Accidents, Andrew Moll OBE, said:
Passenger excursions on RIBs should be a pleasurable experience. This safety bulletin, prompted by a serious spinal injury to a passenger on a sea safari, highlights the risks to passengers seated toward the front of boats.
Owners and operators of passenger excursions, especially on RIBs, should review their operations against established codes of practice and other guidance referred to in the safety bulletin. There should be specific mitigation measures in place to prevent injury to passengers seated in the front third of a boat’s length.
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