Tom Jenkins, Deputy Commissioner of Maritime Affairs of the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) Maritime Administrator (the “Administrator”), participated in the fourth Enclosed Space Entry – Joint Industry Workshop at Oil Companies International Marine Forum (OCIMF) in London at the end of March. Twenty-four leading maritime organizations, including flag States, classification societies, industry associations, and international shipping companies, gathered virtually and in person to tackle the ongoing issue of fatalities related to enclosed space entry that persist despite existing regulations and safety guidelines.
Previously the workshop reviewed past incidents and identified recurring factors such as operational, commercial, technical, and training issues contributing to enclosed space entry fatalities. The review also included an analysis of incidents to understand the relationship between vessel type, incident location on board, and the rank or role of the seafarers involved. In this latest meeting, the workshop emphasized that new procedures or guidelines are not necessary, but rather a deeper understanding of the human factors that influence performance and compliance.
“The Administrator’s internal investigations reveal that these incidents are not the result of a lack of procedures or regulations but are often the result of human factors. It is important that we continue to raise awareness of the risks enclosed spaces present on board, and encourage seafarers to follow the existing procedures,” said Tom, who oversees the Administrator’s Investigations team. The Administrator conducts investigations of marine casualties and incidents involving RMI-flagged vessels to support safe vessel operation. Investigation reports are published online to raise awareness of safety or environmental issues. The Administrator also publishes an Annual Report on Marine Safety Investigations, as well as Marine Safety Advisories, and Marine Safety Posters. Since 2020, 10 enclosed space entry incidents have occurred on RMI-flagged vessels, resulting in the loss of 16 lives. The most recent Marine Safety Advisory on Enclosed Space Entry can be found here.
The workshop identified key actions moving forward including developing a standardized ISO-recognized enclosed space symbol, advocating its adoption by the International Maritime Organization; publishing a booklet addressing human factors and dangers of enclosed spaces for maritime personnel; creating training videos for shore-side personnel to understand the pressures on seafarers; and inviting shore-side personnel to board ships to better understand the risks of entering enclosed spaces on vessels.
The working group will convene again in July 2025.
