Focus on maritime safety is vital to UK industry says HSE legal expert

The importance of safety in UK waters has never been higher, says leading Aberdeen health and safety legal expert Bruce Craig.

The Pinsent Masons’ partner said support for Maritime Safety Week (1-5 July) was crucial following a number of high profile cases which led to the loss of life at home and abroad.

Mr Craig was speaking just weeks after more than 25 people died when a tour boat on the River Danube was hit by a cruise ship, and in Venice tourists and locals had a lucky escape when a massive cruise liner rammed in to a boat and dockside.

Closer to home, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency have been asked to provide new legislation on the stability of fishing vessels following a Marine Accident Investigation Branch probe in to the sinking of the Nancy Glen with the loss of two lives in Loch Fyne in 2018.

Mr Craig said: “The UK has one of the best maritime safety regimes in the world but there is no room for complacency and we can always find new ways to improve the working environment of those working in the sector.

“Maritime Safety Week is an important initiative for raising awareness and promoting even higher standards and everyone associated with the maritime sector should support this laudable campaign.”

Maritime Minister Nusrat Ghani, MP, added: “The maritime industry is crucial to the UK economy. It is a simple truth that, if safety were not a priority for the sector, it would rapidly grind to a halt. It can be dangerous, however, and there is always more that can be done to keep people out of harm’s way.

“Maritime Safety Week aims ultimately to help reduce preventable maritime accidents. The week creates a focal point to recognise the fantastic and innovative work that is already being delivered and the strong partnership between government and the sector which is vital for further continuous improvement.”