The Sea-Shannon: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

On March 26, 2020, at approximately 11 a.m., the RFA 'Tideforce' responded to a distress signal from the cargo vessel 'Sea Shannon', which was on a journey from Teignmouth to Ghent. The emergency arose when a crew member accidentally inhaled noxious fumes while performing rust removal tasks in the ship's cargo hold. As the 'Sea Shannon' faced a critical reduction in oxygen levels necessary for treating the injured sailor, the 'Tideforce', engaged in aviation training off the coasts of Devon and Dorset, navigated towards the freighter, only a few miles away. Upon reaching the scene, the 'Tideforce' deployed its rescue boat, manned by a Medical Technician. Assessing the situation, he found the sailor in a challenging condition yet alert enough to respond. Although his injuries were not deemed life-threatening, immediate oxygen assistance was necessary; thus, the Medical Technician provided oxygen from the 'Tideforce's sickbay to stabilize the sailor until the arrival of the Coastguard helicopter, Rescue 175, from Lee-on-Solent. A paramedic from the helicopter was subsequently dropped onto the freighter, where they assisted in moving the sailor onto a stretcher and up to the deck. Following a swift and coordinated effort, the sailor was winched into the helicopter and transported to a hospital for further care. Remarkably, the entire rescue operation unfolded over a span of more than two and a half hours, showcasing the swift and efficient response of maritime rescue teams.