MOB – Wilaya MAIB Report

Operational Briefing: Man Overboard Incident – FV Wilaya

What Happened: The UK’s Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) are reviewing a tragic man overboard incident involving the fishing vessel Wilaya, a potting vessel. The incident, which occurred on the 1st of May 2025. It took place approximately 1 nautical mile north of Jack Sound, Pembrokeshire, Wales, and sadly resulted in the loss of one life.

Immediate Operational Checks: In light of this incident, all officers and independent mariners must immediately review their vessel’s man overboard procedures. Ensure that all crew members are familiar with the alarm, recovery methods, and the deployment of emergency equipment. Verify the readily available supply and proper stowage of lifejackets and other personal flotation devices (PFDs) and immersion suits.

Practice consistent use of lifejackets and cold water immersion protection, especially when working on deck or in adverse conditions. Conduct a rapid inventory and check the functionality of all man overboard recovery equipment, including scoops, poles, stretchers, ladders and dedicated recovery lifting gear. Confirm that emergency drills are regularly conducted and that all personnel, regardless of their role, are proficient in their actions during a man overboard emergency.

If the skipper falls overboard, can the remaining crew recover them? Does your stretcher actually reach the water? Do you have the ability to recover someone who is unconscious and cannot climb a ladder?

Lessons Learned:

• The critical importance of wearing appropriate Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) at all times when on deck, particularly in smaller vessels or during hazardous operations.
• Ensure Personal Location Beacons (PLBs) are fitted and functional. Test regularly.
• The necessity for well-rehearsed and effective man overboard (MOB) recovery procedures, ensuring all crew members are trained and capable of swift action.
• Regular maintenance and immediate accessibility of all safety and emergency equipment, including lifebuoys, smoke floats, floating lamps, and recovery systems.
• Ensure comprehensive risk assessments for all deck work, identifying potential hazards.
• Implement robust control measures to prevent persons from going overboard. 
• Ensuring adequate crew awareness and training regarding the dangers of working near the vessel’s side and the correct use of safety lines or harnesses where appropriate.

In addition to MOB training and drills, practice CPR training more frequently on smaller vessels. Studies show that refreshing CPR training every 3 months is necessary to maintain confidence and effectiveness. 

Tags: Man Overboard, Fishing Vessel, Fatality, Safety, CPR, LSA, PLB, LJ

Official Report

Read the full safety report here: Wilaya report and safety flyer published