Working Conditions Aboard the Karina-C

A tragic incident on the 'Karina C' has claimed the life of the ship's second officer, Maciej Reszkiewicz, following an unfortunate accident involving a gantry crane. Reszkiewicz, who was Polish and turned 59 on May 24, 2019, lost his life just as the vessel was set to depart from Seville. The accident occurred when he attempted to navigate through a narrow space between hatch covers, inadvertently from the crane operator's view, leading to him being crushed as the crane moved and fell onto the deck while reversing. The Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) reported significant lapses in safe working protocols as well as violations of alcohol policies. Initially presumed to have suffered a heart attack, the incident wasn’t reported as an on-board accident until four months had passed. Subsequent post-mortem toxicology tests revealed a notable level of alcohol in Reszkiewicz's system. In response to this tragedy, Cowes-based Carisbrooke Shipping has strengthened their procedures regarding deck operations and gantry crane usage. The company has implemented rigorous training on the safe operation of all potentially hazardous equipment, raising awareness within the crew of the serious implications when safety protocols are not followed. Losses like these reverberate throughout the maritime community, highlighting the critical importance of adhering to safety standards.