VIRGÍLIO MIGUEL - Very Serious Maritime Casualty
Vessel: VIRGÍLIO MIGUEL
GAMA reference: 2022-472
Data da ocorrência acidental: 10-11-2022
Circulated on: 13-03-2023
Published on: 10-04-2023
Casualty Event: Fall overboard
Summary
On 10 November 2022, VIRGÍLIO MIGUEL was proceeding south with 16 persons on board when a crew member fell overboard off Furadouro. The crew member had left the accommodation and stepped onto a fish box positioned beside the port-side deck access. The box was approximately level with the guardrail, preventing it from providing effective fall protection. The casualty was briefly seen unresponsive in the water but disappeared before recovery and remains missing.
Safety recommendations
SR01-2022/472, to the owner of VIRGÍLIO MIGUEL: Assess ensuring that deck areas adjacent to access points leading into the vessel remain unobstructed. The recommendation was accepted.
SR02-2022/472, to the owner of VIRGÍLIO MIGUEL: Assess instructing crew members to wear lifejackets whenever they are on the exterior decks, regardless of geographical position or weather and sea conditions. The recommendation was accepted.
Lessons learned
Deck access routes and areas beside the ship’s side should remain clear. Stowed equipment must not create elevated surfaces that defeat guardrail protection. Lifejackets should be worn on exposed decks, regardless of distance from the coast or apparently favourable conditions.