Failures in following the SMS led to fatal accident

The MAIB has published the report into the Karina C accident which has found several contributing factors to the second officer’s death.

Ultimately it outlines the importance for shipping companies of ensuring all their vessels are compliant with their Safety Management System (SMS) at all times. It was found that there was a weak safety culture on board and that company procedures were not being followed, including the company’s drug and alcohol policy.

This is a pertinent reminder for all ship operators to ensure their SMS procedures are reviewed on a regular basis. It also outlines the importance of having an efficient employee confidential reporting system to enable crew to confidentially report problems on board and avoid the potential issues that may arise in the future.