EU Reaches Agreement On Modernizing Maritime Accident Investigations

• The European Parliament and Council have reached a political agreement to modernize maritime accident investigations, part of the ‘maritime safety’ legislative package.
• The key measures include bringing serious accidents involving smaller fishing vessels under the directive, enhancing protection and harmonizing investigations.
• The agreement involves collaboration with the European Maritime Safety Agency for operational support and training.
• The directive aligns EU law with international standards, ensuring consistency, and introduces a peer review process for Member State accident investigation authorities.

In a significant development, the European Parliament and the Council have reached a political agreement on the investigation of maritime accidents, marking a modernization of a 2009 Directive. The agreement, part of the ‘maritime safety’ legislative package, addresses the need for more efficient accident investigations in EU waters.

Key Measures for Enhanced Safety

The co-legislators agreed to bring the most serious accidents involving smaller fishing vessels (less than 15 meters) within the scope of the Directive. This inclusion aims to improve the protection of fishing vessels, their crews, and the environment, ensuring systematic and harmonized investigation of accidents involving fatalities and vessel losses.

Collaboration with EMSA for Operational Excellence

EMSA will provide operational support and training to national investigative authorities upon request, respecting their operational independence. This collaboration is expected to strengthen the investigative capabilities and expertise across Member States, contributing to more effective accident analyses and prevention strategies.

Alignment with International Standards for Consistency

The revised directive aligns EU law with the latest international provisions adopted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). This alignment ensures consistency and promotes adherence to global maritime safety standards. The directive also introduces a peer review process for Member State accident investigation authorities, fostering collaboration, learning, and improvement of procedures.

Did you subscribe to our daily Newsletter?

It’s Free! Click here to Subscribe

Source: Safety4sea

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
•