Report Issued Regarding Fatality on Dredge Cherry Sand

by | May 29, 2020 | Maritime Law, Wrongful Death

The UK Marine Accident Investigation Branch has released its final report regarding the fatality that occurred on the dredge Cherry Sand. On February 28, 2019, the master of the dredge was crushed between the vessel and a jetty while attempted to help berth the vessel.  In order to reach that position on board, the master stepped over the bulwark and on to the rubbing bank.  The master was rescued, but ultimately succumbed to his injures.  The report found fault with the owner’s procedures:

The Safe System of Work for mooring acknowledged that, in certain circumstances, the crew would need to cross over the bulwark, but no means had been established for them to achieve this safely.

Additionally, there were no suitable footholds to be used, which should have been identified during a risk assessment before the operation occurred:

Cherry Sand did not have any gates in the bulwarks nor any mechanism for safely crossing the bulwark. Once outboard, there were no suitable footplates that crew could stand on safely prior to stepping ashore. These were significant material deficiencies that should have been identified during risk assessment.

Our attorneys have extensive experience in maritime accident litigation in courts across the country and the skills needed to represent the families of loved ones who have lost their lives as a result of the negligence of another party, or been seriously injured.  The experienced maritime attorneys at Spagnoletti Law Firm can help you understand your rights if you or a loved one was a victim of a boat accident. Please contact us online or call 713-804-9306 or 877-678-5864 to learn more about your legal rights.