InterManager has issued a critical call for urgent action regarding enclosed space safety in the maritime industry. This follows the organization’s recent research indicating a troubling trend of accidents related to enclosed spaces, with 354 recorded incidents spanning three decades from 1996 to 2026 across various vessel types including tankers, bulkers, general cargo ships, and passenger vessels.
The Safety Gap
The organization’s seafarer survey, which included over 900 respondents, reveals significant gaps between established safety procedures and the operational realities aboard vessels. Notably, respondents cited overly complex paperwork, inadequate time and manpower, and commercial pressures as major impediments to effective safety practices.
Furthermore, concerns have been raised regarding the industry’s inspection processes, which often emphasize superficial compliance rather than evaluating the actual effectiveness of safety measures in practice. This underscores a need for a more holistic approach to safety, one grounded in practicality and reality.
Advancing Training and Technology
InterManager emphasizes the importance of continuous professional development over one-off training exercises. Current training regimens for enclosed space entry often revolve around limited, initial exercises that fail to enhance ongoing competencies. This is especially critical as discussions are underway regarding the training requirements during the review of Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) regulations, led by the International Chamber of Shipping.
The organization advocates for the integration of modern technology such as real-time gas sensors, wearable devices, digital permits, hands-free communications, and unmanned inspection tools. These advancements can significantly reduce human exposure to hazardous situations, thereby enhancing overall safety.
InterManager’s Secretary General, Capt. Kuba Szymanski, has noted the dire necessity for substantial improvements, stating, “Enclosed spaces have been killing seafarers for decades. The industry does not need more paperwork for the sake of paperwork; it needs practical measures that work onboard.” This highlights the urgency for the industry to revisit its procedures and tailor them to the realities of operational constraints.
A webinar scheduled for October 27, 2026, in collaboration with The Nautical Institute, will delve deeper into these issues. Prominent figures, including Captain Pradeep Chawla and Captain Garry Hallett, will discuss the survey findings and propose actionable steps to enhance safety practices.
The Operational Read
The maritime sector faces critical operational challenges regarding enclosed space safety. With historical data indicating a persistent issue, stakeholders must prioritize practical training and engage seafarers directly in safety systems. The call for enhanced, realistic training solutions mirrors broader discussions on operational efficiency, emphasizing the need for ship designs that minimize enclosed space access. As industry leaders consider these recommendations, operators should monitor upcoming discussions and webinars closely, as they may reshape protocols that directly affect seafarer safety and operational integrity.
