A new report published by the InterManager ship management association reveals that between 1996 and 2026, 354 incidents in confined spaces on various types of vessels, including tankers, cargo ships, and passenger ships, have been recorded. This study, which includes over 900 seafarers, shows a significant gap between safety procedures and the realities of working on ships.
Challenges and Shortcomings
Despite long-standing efforts to improve safety, the problems faced by seafarers continue to recur. Seafarers in this study pointed to the excessive complexity of procedures, lack of time and manpower, commercial pressures, and inadequate practical training. Additionally, many respondents expressed concern that inspections focus more on paperwork and documentation rather than emphasizing the actual effectiveness of safety measures on ships.
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Need for Change in Procedures
Captain Kuba Szimanski, Secretary-General of InterManager, emphasized that "confined spaces have killed seafarers for decades" and stated, "The industry does not need more documentation, but rather practical measures that are effective on ships." He also added that if a procedure cannot be realistically implemented with the available time, manpower, and equipment, the system should be questioned, not the seafarer.
Based on its findings, InterManager stressed the need for regular practical training and announced that seafarers should have a greater role in developing the operational procedures they must follow. The association called for more drills, revised training, reliable gas detection equipment, and effective rescue arrangements.
Advancements in Ship Design
Ship design is also a topic that InterManager has highlighted. The association believes that by improving the placement of equipment, better coverings, and more resilient piping, the need for seafarers to enter hazardous spaces can be reduced.
The findings of this report come at a time when the International Maritime Organization is working to strengthen safety standards for seafarers. In June 2025, this organization approved new recommendations for entering confined spaces, which include hazard identification, risk assessment, and safety procedures. Additionally, the organization is conducting a more comprehensive review of the STCW Convention, with training in confined spaces being one of the issues under consideration.
InterManager also criticized the poor reporting of incidents and limited information in the industry. The association warned that delays or deficiencies in investigations make it harder for operators to learn from previous incidents and prevent similar occurrences. Szimanski stated, "We already know many of the factors behind these incidents. What is lacking is cohesive action." He emphasized the need to simplify procedures, improve training, strengthen leadership, and enhance ship design.
Ultimately, Szimanski noted, "Deaths from confined spaces are not inevitable. The industry has the knowledge to prevent them, so why is it not taking action now?"
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