Marine Accident Investigation Branch
Accident Investigation Report 1/2023
Read our marine accident investigation report, which includes what happened and actions taken:
Summary
On the morning of 12 January 2022, two men were found unconscious in the covered cockpit of the privately owned sports cruiser Emma Louise, which was moored in Port Hamble Marina. The men had left the boats petrol engine running during the previous evening, likely to maintain power to some of the boats systems. Exhaust gas had built up in the covered cockpit area, causing them to pass out and die due to carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.
Safety Issues
-
Exhaust gas, containing CO, had likely been funnelled into the cockpit between the boats transom and an inflatable water skiing ringo suspended from it. The cockpit was covered by a close-fitting canopy and the exhaust gas accumulated as there was little ventilation to enable the CO to disperse.
-
With no CO alarm fitted on board the men were not alerted to the danger of CO poisoning before they succumbed.
-
Further work by industry stakeholders to raise CO awareness among pleasure craft users is required to reduce the increasing number of fatalities caused by CO poisoning.
Statement from the Chief Inspector of Marine Accidents
Recommendations
In view of MAIB recommendations issued in 2017 following the Love for Lydia investigation, supported by our participation in the UK governments Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week in November 2022 and the safety flyer issued with this report, no further safety recommendations have been made.
Related publications
A safety flyer has been issued as part of this investigation highlighting the hazards posed by carbon monoxide to the recreational craft industry and pleasure craft users.
The accident investigation report involving CO poisoning on board the motor cruiser Love for Lydia in 2016, resulting in two fatalities.
Safety critical advice for boat users from Chief Inspector of Marine Accidents to mark the start of CO awareness week 2022, reminding them of the hazards posed by this poisonous gas, and an information video highlighting simple ways to keep you safe: