NJORD

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MAIB report into fatal capsize published

An MAIB investigation report into the fatal capsizing of the 'Njord (SH 90)' has highlighted vessel modifications, stability issues, and safety lessons. On March 6, 2022, the stern trawler capsized 150 nautical miles north-east of Peterhead, Scotland, while processing a large haul of fish. All eight crew members entered the water, and one drowned before he could be rescued. The investigation found that the net had been secured to the starboard trawl winch and the weight of the catch then acted on a handrail high up on the vessel’s starboard side. As the remaining fish in the net started to sink, along with the vessel’s hopper being overloaded, a substantial list developed to the point that downflooding could occur. A valve in a drain cut into the weathertight bulkhead on the vessel’s starboard working deck had been left open, which allowed downflooding into the internal spaces of Njord. The downflooding caused the starboard list to increase further, leading to the vessel capsizing. All eight crew abandoned to the upturned hull where they waited for almost 45 minutes before a rescue helicopter arrived. None of the crew were able to don personal flotation devices or lifejackets. Shortly after the rescue helicopter arrived on scene Njord sank and the crew entered the water. The investigation concluded that modifications made to Njord in 2021 reduced the safety margin of the vessel’s transverse stability and that this, coupled with the way the vessel was operated on the day, directly led to Njord capsizing. The deceased deckhand entered the cold water without the aid of a personal flotation device and drowned before he could be rescued. Full report: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/67ab14d7a270d8f9e7ed88c0/2025-2-Njord-Report.pdf