MAIB Accident Investigation Report

Saffier

Published 10 May 2012

Key issues:

• The main propulsion control system malfunctioned while Saffier was berthing because the system had not been correctly adjusted after major repairs were carried out a few months before the accident.
• When half astern was demanded, the propulsion system supplied full astern propeller pitch.
• The master was unable to respond to the situation effectively because he was not familiar with the use of the emergency back up controls
• A recommendation has been made for classification societies to require more comprehensive tests of astern propulsion controls.

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MAIB Accident Investigation Report

Morfil and Sun Clipper

Published 18 April 2012

Key issues:

• The driver of a RIB which collided with a passenger ship on the River Thames was over the alcohol limit for motorists.
• The RIB was exceeding the recommended 12 knot speed limit and her driver had little time to take successful avoiding action.
• Neither the RIB driver nor his passenger was wearing lifejackets; both were thrown into the water on impact.
• The driver of the RIB was not wearing a kill-cord and he and his passenger were fortunate not to be seriously injured as the RIB circled close by at speed before grounding.

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