VASQUES CALAFATE - Very Serious Maritime Casualty
Vessel: VASQUES CALAFATE
GAMA reference: 2015-214
Data da ocorrência acidental: 12-03-2015
Circulated on: 11-01-2016
Published on: 04-01-2024
Casualty Event: Fall overboard
Summary
On 3 December 2015, VASQUES CALAFATE was hauling bottom-set trammel nets off Viana do Castelo when a crew member moved from the bow to work alone aft. The crew member’s absence was detected at 0738.
The Master stopped fishing and returned to the likely position of the fall. The casualty was located unconscious in the water and recovered aboard. Basic life support initially produced signs of response, but the casualty later lost consciousness again and subsequently died in hospital
Safety recommendations
Lessons learned
Lifejackets should be worn during fishing operations and whenever crew members remain on exposed decks while the vessel is under way. Work organisation should avoid isolated deck work where a fall overboard may remain undetected. Effective monitoring and immediate flotation assistance preserve recovery time