Fatality Assessment and Control Evaluation (FACE) Report for Alaska: Commercial Fisherman Presumed Drowned After Fishing Vessel Capsized.

摘要

The case of a 30 year old commercial fisherman who presumably drowned after the vessel on which he was working capsized was reviewed. The vessel and the three men on board had been crabbing for 9 days. The victim was a shareholding crewman who had fished commercially for over 6 years. The victim pivoted the boom of the deck crane to port in an effort to correct a 5 degree starboard list. This move resulted in a 20 degree port list and within 3 seconds the vessel was on its side, later completely capsizing. The other two crewmembers partially donned immersion suits, and were rescued from the water about 1.5 hours later; the victim was not found, and is presumed to have drowned. An upper cabin had been added to the vessel, which raised the center of gravity and provided more wind surface area. It was recommended that masters of the ships be certain that their vessels comply with applicable stability requirements; that they ensure that persons on board are properly trained in the donning of immersion suits; that on board emergency instruction drills and safety orientation are conducted as needed; and that their vessels have appropriate lifesaving equipment, properly maintained and stowed, and that each item is readily accessible at all times.