Deaths prompt tiredness warning – Fishupdate.com
Deaths prompt tiredness warning Published: 31 January, 2007
It is thought that fatigue lead to the grounding of Brothers BF138 Copyright Davie Tait
THE Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) has today alerted fishermen to the dangers of tiredness while working. In a move aimed at improving safety at sea the MAIB has issued a flyer urging fishermen to take fatigue seriously.
The warning has been issued following the publication of the MAIBs report into the stern trawler Brothers BF138, which grounded and sank off the north coast of the Isle of Skye on June 1 last year. The accident resulted in the death of the two crew members.
The investigation discovered that the vessel probably grounded due to one of the crew falling asleep in the wheelhouse. This meant that the vessel continued on autopilot past the prawn fishing grounds and ran aground on the rocky shore.
Stephen Meyer, Chief Inspector of Marine Accidents said: Prawn fishing is generally done during good weather and fishermen will work very long hours to make the most of it. This accident clearly shows the importance of being alert at work and ensuring that fisherman have regular and substantial breaks.
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