TSB Releases Findings on the Capsizing and loss of life on board the FV Caledonian

The TSB released its findings into the capsizing of the fishing trawler Caledonian last September 2015 with the loss of 3 lives.

Read the full report here: http://www.bst-tsb.gc.ca/eng/rapports-reports/marine/2015/m15p0286/m15p0286.asp

Despite the loss of life, there was one survivor who was wearing his PFD when the incident occurred.  Once again, the TSB is reiterating the importance of PFD wear and is recommending that all commercial fishermen be required to wear a PFD while on the deck of a commercial fishing vessel.

Additionally, given that a loss of stability precipitated the capsizing of the vessel, the TSB is recommending that all commercial fishing vessels, large and small, be required to undergo a stability assessment appropriate for their size and operation and to ensure the assessment is kept current.  Although it met the applicable regulatory requirements, in the case of the Caledonian, the stability assessment and stability booklet were almost 40 years old at the time of the incident.