Accident Risk Factors in Conventional and High Speed Ferry Ships in Spain

Abstract

[Abstract] Objective: studying the basic causes of marine casualties in conventional and high speed passenger ships over short distances (ferry ships). Identification of risk factors for most common accidents. Method: a study of working conditions and operational management of the ship in five conventional and high speed ferry ships. Analysis of the causes of accidents occurred in ten ferry ships, conventional and high speed ones. The interaction between these aforementioned studies is presented. Results: Relationship between risk factors for accidents due to lack of time and poor maintenance of ships and equipment, and causation of accidents at sea in such ships and lines. Conclusions: the poor implementation of the ISM Code, underlying cause of marine casualties in this type of vessels and lines, can lead to lack of time and poor maintenance as factors of risk of accidents; routine, typical in these trades can generate excess of confidence, another important risk factor for occupational accidents and maritime accidents, as well as it is noted the presence of other risk factors common to other ships and lines, such as fatigue and multifunctionality due to the reduction in crews and to a poor legislation.