The NTSB has published its Safer Seas Digest 2015 including lessons learned 29 major marine casualty investigations investigated by the agency during the year. NTSB has determined the probable cause of the accidents and issued safety recommendations aimed at preventing future accidents. 

”The year 2015 brought us another grim reminder of the importance of safety in marine transportation. The loss of all 33 crewmembers in the sinking of the El Faro in Hurricane Joaquin on October 1 turned our thoughts once again to how unforgiving the sea can be and the respect it demands. Our investigation of the El Faro sinking is still ongoing, but its toll underscores the indisputable importance of safety at sea” stated Christopher A.Hart, Chairman, NTSB

Safer Seas Digest 2015 is the third edition of this publication. In this year’s edition, you will find accidents involving multiple vessels grouped together for easier reference as well as a “Vessel Particulars” table, to give the reader quick access to more information about each accident vessel. Following the accident summaries, you will also find an extended compilation of lessons learned from our many investigations. Finally, this edition includes “Acknowledgements” section at the end of the publication listing the Coast Guard units that partnered with the NTSB in each investigation.

• ”Indeed, safety culture begins at the top; the lessons of Safer Seas Digest should be of interest not only at sea, but also in C-suites. Safer Seas Digest 2015 represents our continuing commitment to sharing the lessons that we learn through our investigations. Many marine accidents can be prevented when crews know and respond to safety issues early and when crews work together effectively in the event of a crisis.” Christopher A.Hart, Chairman, NTSB commented.

The report may be downloaded at

http://www.ntsb.gov/investigations/AccidentReports/Reports/SPC1601.pdf