The UK's Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) has issued a safety notice highlighting the dangers for crew sleeping on vessels not properly equipped for overnight accommodation, such as some fishing vessels, ferries, and dredgers. The warning follows several incidents where fatalities have occurred.
The agency stated it is concerned about incidents where safety systems intended for use at sea proved inadequate when a vessel was shut down in port on shore power, a state known as a "dead ship". These incidents have included fires, flooding, and the development of noxious atmospheres like carbon monoxide.
The MCA guidance stresses that vessel owners and masters must carry out a structured risk assessment for crew sleeping on board. It is recommended that vessels have fire, bilge, and noxious gas alarms fitted with at least two independent power sources to ensure they work on both the ship's and shore power supplies.
The notice provides detailed guidance on fire precautions, advising that unapproved or free-standing heaters should not be used in cabins. It also emphasizes that all escape routes must be kept clear of obstructions, be well lit, and be familiar to all crew members.
The detailed guidance may be accessed here.