An investigation has identified an “industry-wide” issue of lorry drivers ignoring international regulations and putting lives at risk by staying in their cabs at sea.
The probe was sparked after nine HGVs toppled over and 22 vehicles were damaged during high winds on board the P&O European Causeway service between Larne, Northern Ireland, and Cairnryan, on December 18, 2018.
At least six drivers had remained in their cabs on the vehicle decks during the crossing, four were in vehicles that had overturned and one had to be freed by the emergency services at the Dumfries and Galloway port.
The Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) said drivers remaining in their vehicles during the ferry’s passage, in contravention of international regulations and company policy, was not uncommon and was an “industry-wide” issue.
Andrew Moll, chief inspector of marine accidents, said: “The MAIB investigation identified that the forecast weather conditions had not been sufficiently considered when setting the course of the ship, nor when applying lashings to freight vehicles loaded aboard.
“The investigation further highlighted the problem of freight drivers remaining in their cabs on the vehicle deck when the ferry is at sea.
“Drivers remaining in their vehicles not only put themselves at risk, but they also place at risk other passengers and anyone who may have to rescue them.
“Perhaps, most importantly, crucial emergency responses, such as to a fire, can be delayed until all passengers are accounted for.
“I have written to the senior management of the ferry companies operating around the United Kingdom to further highlight the dangers posed by freight drivers remaining on vehicle decks, and to encourage them to take a collective approach to eliminate this dangerous practice.”
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