GovWire

Today, we have published our fatal accident investigation report into the accidental discharge of condensed aerosol particles during installation work in the engine room of the UK registered fishing vessel Resurgam (PZ1001) on 15 November 2019.

Chief Inspector of Marine Accidents, Andrew MollOBE, said:

The investigation into this deeply tragic accident in which a young apprentice lost his life has involved a considerable amount of in depth investigation work, including the extensive research and testing of the FirePro system at HSEs Science and Research Centre, Buxton. The investigation report builds on the earlier MAIB safety bulletin issued shortly after the accident, which highlighted the danger to human health of inhaling the condensed aerosol produced by the FirePro system.

As well as the additional safety recommendations made today, it is worth reinforcing the safety lessons from that bulletin and reminding vessel operators, owners and those working with condensed aerosol fire-extinguishing systems that safety measures must be put in place to ensure personnel are not exposed to this hazard. These measures can include alarms and checks before intentional activation and taking precautions during installation and maintenance.

Our investigation also brought to the attention of the fishing industry the dangers of working in an enclosed space and, from 14 May 2023, the change in regulations to include fishing vessels.

A safety flyer to the fishing industry has also been produced with this report.