InterManager Calls for Urgent Action After 354 Enclosed Space Deaths

Ship management association InterManager called for urgent action from the maritime industry to improve enclosed space safety, after its latest research revealed persistent failures in procedures, training, leadership and accident prevention on board. The organization recorded 354 enclosed space accidents occurring between 1996 and 2026 on tankers, bulk carriers, general cargo ships, passenger vessels, containerships and other types of ships.

A survey conducted among more than 900 seafarers identified a recurring gap between safety procedures and operational reality on board. Respondents pointed to excessively complex paperwork, lack of time and manning, commercial pressure, and insufficient hands-on training. They also expressed concern that inspections often focus on formal compliance with regulations rather than verifying whether safety practices actually work.

Captain Kuba Szymanski, Secretary General of InterManager, stated that enclosed spaces have been killing seafarers for decades and that the industry does not need more paperwork, but practical measures that work on board. He added that if a procedure cannot realistically be completed with the time, personnel and equipment available, the system must be questioned rather than blaming the seafarer. Szymanski noted that many of the factors behind these accidents are already known, and what is missing is consistent action, with priorities on simpler procedures, better training, stronger leadership, improved ship design and greater sharing of accident data.

In June 2025, the International Maritime Organization adopted revised recommendations for entering enclosed spaces, addressing hazard identification, risk assessment and safe entry procedures. Enclosed space training is also under review as part of the IMO's broader review of the STCW Convention, a process in which the International Chamber of Shipping is leading the industry's input.

InterManager will address the survey findings and broader concerns about enclosed space safety during a webinar organized together with The Nautical Institute on October 27, 2026 at 10am GMT, featuring Captain Pradeep Chawla, CEO of Marie Pals; Captain Garry Hallett of InterManager, and human factors specialist Richard Cowburn, moderated by David Patrirko, Director of Projects at The Nautical Institute. The organization called for more drills and refresher training, reliable gas detection and effective rescue equipment, as well as greater use of real-time gas sensors, wearable technology, digital permits and uncrewed inspection equipment. It also called for improved ship design through better equipment placement, enhanced coatings and more durable piping to reduce the need for enclosed space entry.

InterManager also criticized the poor dissemination of accident data and inconsistencies in investigations across the industry, warning that lessons cannot be effectively learned if information arrives late, incomplete, or is not shared at all.