On the fifth anniversary of the Conception dive boat hearth that claimed 34 lives, Nationwide Transportation Security Board (NTSB) Chair Jennifer Homendy renewed requires the U.S. Coast Guard to mandate security administration techniques (SMS) for all U.S.-flagged passenger vessels.
Talking at a media occasion with victims’ households, Homendy emphasised the longstanding nature of this suggestion: “The NTSB first really helpful SMS within the marine mode 20 years in the past, and particularly known as for it on small passenger vessels since 2012. Moreover, Congress licensed the Coast Guard to mandate SMS in 2010. It’s 2024, and right here we’re, with no motion”.
The Conception, caught hearth early on September 2, 2019, whereas anchored off Santa Cruz Island, California, ensuing within the deaths of 33 passengers and one crew member who have been trapped within the berthing space. The NTSB concluded that an SMS might have helped establish and deal with unsafe practices and hearth dangers earlier than the incident occurred.
An SMS is described as a complete danger administration method, guaranteeing vessel operations align with laws, firm necessities, and greatest practices.
Following the investigation, the NTSB issued 10 new security suggestions and reiterated its 2005 suggestion for SMS implementation on all U.S.-flag passenger vessels.
Regardless of the Coast Guard issuing interim guidelines addressing many NTSB suggestions in December 2021, the SMS requirement stays unimplemented and progress has stalled.
The captain of the Conception was sentenced in Might to 4 years in jail after being convicted of “seaman’s manslaughter” over the tragedy in November 2023.
Homendy concluded by sending a letter to the Coast Guard commandant and the Secretary of Homeland Safety, urging quick motion on SMS necessities.
The NTSB’s push for SMS extends past marine vessels, with profitable implementation in industrial aviation credited for improved security information.
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