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<p>The Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) undertakes rigorous investigations
into accidents and incidents to ensure that the causes can be understood and lessons
learned.</p><p> </p><p>There have been a number of accidents involving fatalities,
and multiple fatalities, within the maritime sector. MAIB has issued a number of Safety
Bulletins following these incidents (2/2008, 3/2014 and 4/2018) highlighting the risks.</p><p>
</p><p>The reasons for these accidents have generally been attributed to:</p><ul><li>complacency
leading to lapses in procedure;</li><li>lack of knowledge</li><li>potentially dangerous
spaces not being identified; and</li><li>would-be rescuers acting on instinct and
emotion rather than knowledge and training (rushing into enclosed spaces without assessing
the dangers).</li></ul><p>As a result of MAIB recommendations a paper was submitted
to the International Maritime Organization to raise awareness of enclosed space entry
accidents. This has led to changes in the guidance issued at international level by
the International Maritime Organization.</p><p> </p><p>The Maritime and Coastguard
Agency publishes comprehensive guidance which reflect these findings and best practice
including the Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seafarers (COSWP), which
it is mandatory for all merchant ships to carry a copy of, the Fisherman’s Safety
Guide and Marine Guidance Notes.</p>
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