354 Enclosed Space Accidents Since 1996 Put Seafarers At Risk From Repeated Procedure Failures

InterManager has urged improved safety standards on board ships after recording 354 incidents involving entry into enclosed spaces between 1996 and 2026.

The body noted that continued failure of safety procedure management, crew training, on-board leadership, and accident prevention is placing crews in danger.

The findings, published on October 19, 2026, include tankers, bulk carriers, general cargo vessels, passenger ships, containerships and other ship types.

The study, involving more than 900 seafarers, has revealed that safety procedures are sometimes inconsistent with the circumstances faced by crews aboard the vessels.

Crew members noted complications in terms of paperwork, shortage of time and staff, commercial pressures, and inadequate practical training. Some indicated an unwillingness to tackle the root cause of accidents.

InterManager stated that most inspections are aimed at compliance with procedures but not their effectiveness in reality.

According to Captain Kuba Szymanski, Secretary General of InterManager, there had been deaths of seafarers caused by accidents in enclosed spaces for many years. The industry was encouraged to consider the deficiencies in the safety system, not blaming seafarers.

The organisation stated that better procedures, training, onboard leadership, and accident prevention are required to avoid such accidents.

InterManager said seafarers need regular training, practical drills and refresher courses, rather than relying on one-off exercises. Crew members should also be able to show that they know how to follow safety procedures.

The organisation requires having an effective gas detection system and rescue plans which will correspond to the specific conditions of the vessel.

Also, the technology can help to decrease the number of cases where seafarers need to enter enclosed dangerous spaces. Such technologies include gas detection sensors in real time, wearable sensors, digital work permits, hands-free communications, and unmanned inspection.

Ship design can help decrease risks too, according to InterManager. More efficient placement of equipment, better coatings, and robust pipework will reduce the need for personnel to enter enclosed areas for inspection and maintenance.

It has also been concerned about poor information sharing regarding accidents. According to the organisation, inaccurate or missing information will impede other companies in learning from their experiences.

InterManager encourages seafarers’ participation in establishing safety regulations, ship design, and working arrangements.

In total, 354 accidents occurred in enclosed spaces in 30 years. A survey involving more than 900 seafarers revealed that crew members encounter difficulties in complying with safety regulations onboard.

According to Szymanski, a lot of the factors contributing to the occurrence of such accidents are well known; however, measures taken by the industry to avoid them are insufficient.

InterManager urges ship operators, managers, and training providers to enhance safety procedures and training.

References: maritimegazette, safety4sea