A tragic accident claimed the life of a deckhand from the fishing vessel Kingfisher (DH 110) after he was pulled overboard during creel fishing operations about 30 nautical miles east-north-east of Wick, Scotland, on 12 July 2024.

According to the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB), the crew had been manually shooting a string of creels when the deckhand became entangled in a leg rope. His personal flotation device (PFD) inflated after immersion, but the weight of the gear dragged him underwater. The crew managed to haul the gear back and recover him on board within seven minutes, but despite their efforts, he could not be revived.

Investigators identified several safety issues. The deckhand had accidentally threaded the creel toggle through the PFD’s safety loop, which created a snagging hazard. This risk had not been previously identified, and the vessel’s risk assessments had not considered whether the lifejacket was appropriate for the work being carried out.

As part of the inquiry, an urgent safety recommendation (S2024/129M) was made to the Home and Dry Safety Forum. It called on members to immediately ensure fishing crews review their deck work risk assessments, particularly the dangers of entrapment in running ropes, and to check that PFDs used are suitable for creel fishing operations.

The recommendation also stressed the importance of sharing information about new hazards, such as loose lifting strops on PFDs, and sourcing safer alternatives quickly.

Browse Brothers Fisheries Limited, which operates the Kingfisher, has been advised to review the guidance in Marine Guidance Note 588 (F) Amendment 2. The company has also been urged to reassess the compatibility of PFDs with onboard working practices, strengthen its risk assessment methods, and confirm that all crew have completed mandatory training.

Chief Inspector of Marine Accidents Andrew Moll said PFDs can save lives in the water but cannot stop crew from being dragged overboard by gear. He added in the MAIB report that safety harnesses and tethers may sometimes be needed to prevent such accidents.

For the full report, click MAIB investigation report

Reference: MAIB

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