AN official investigation has found that a big French stern trawler grounded off the West of Scotland after her skipper fell asleep.
The Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) summary of the incident said that at about 2316 on January 31 this year, the stern trawler Jack Abry II grounded on the Isle of Rum in heavy weather, while on passage from Lochinver to her intended fishing grounds.
Mallaig’s all-weather lifeboat (ALB) and Stornoway coastguard helicopter were called out and the 14-strong crew were airlifted off the vessel. Some oil pollution resulted and the vessel was subsequently declared a constructive total loss. There were no injuries.
The MAIB investigation established that the skipper, who had been alone on watch in the wheelhouse, fell asleep and failed to make a course alteration. He had joined the vessel in Lochinver on the day of the accident after travelling from his home in France.
“ It is likely,” the report goes on, “ that the skipper became fatigued through a combination of personal stress, a prolonged period without sleep and poor quality rest before leaving his home. The wheelhouse watch alarm was not used, nor was best use made of the available navigational aids and crew. “
The report adds that a recommendation has been made to the owners of Jack Abry II designed to “enhance the safety management of its fleet” by the provision of operational instructions and guidance, to its crews.
The rescue was co-ordinated by Stornoway Coastguard .
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