20.04.2012

PLA welcome for MAIB report on ‘Morfil’ incident

The PLA has welcomed the publication of the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) report into the collision on the Thames between the Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB) ‘Morfil’ and a passenger vessel.

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 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

Commenting, the PLA said:

“This is a very good and thorough report into a serious accident which could easily have resulted in fatalities. The report highlights the dangers of speeding vessels in confined and congested waterways; and of alcohol consumption by those in charge of boats, which should be regarded no differently to drink-driving on the roads.
 
“In this very busy year for London this report goes to the heart of why safety is crucial for all river users at all times. 
 
“We welcome all the MAIB key recommendations and in particular continue to work with the Department for Transport to strengthen the PLA’s safety regulations and enforcement.”

The full text of the MAIB report into the accident can be viewed on the MAIB website here (opens in a new window):