The majority of multi-fatality incidents in enclosed spaces involve at least one rescuer who perished after entering without proper precautions.
Many fatalities involve would-be rescuers – individuals who entered enclosed spaces to save others and became casualties themselves. According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), more than 60% of confined space deaths occur among rescuers.
At least 1,010 fatalities in enclosed spaces aboard vessels between 2000-2024
Lifeboats incidents: Key observations and lessons learned
Furthermore, IBTA’s analysis submitted to the IMO shows that between 2000 and 2024, there were 67 such fatalities on ships with 48 being crew members and 19 being shore workers.
Senior officers such as masters, chief officers, chief engineers are disproportionately represented among rescuer fatalities; for example, nearly half of the 23 masters who died in enclosed spaces lost their lives in rescue attempts.
Reasons for fatalities of would-be rescuers
There can be multiple reasons behind the deaths of would-be rescuers. Some highlight psychological aspects, such as the “rescuer syndrome,” submission to IMO where people feel a compulsive urge to react instantly and instinctively. Research by Pearn and Franklin (2012) describes “rescue altruism” as a blend of:
Ethos: Driven by the Good Samaritan or Golden Rule ethic.
Identity: Rescuer identifies with the victim, often due to a perceived duty-of-care.
Risk perception: Belief that there is a chance of success, even if the risk is high.
Courage: Personal bravery that often overrides rational risk assessment.
There are also other contributing factors behind the fatalities:
Holding breath: Some rescuers attempt to hold their breath, believing a quick entry is safe, as highlighted in MAIB Safety Bulletin 02/2008.
Improper equipment: Emergency Escape Breathing Devices (EEBDs), designed for escape only, are sometimes misused for rescue entry, despite clear warnings. There have also been instances where would-be rescuers have entered the space using an air hose.
Unrealistic drills: Practicing rescue in non-hazardous spaces or without full gear leaves crews unprepared for the realities of a true emergency.
Misinterpretation of collapse: Would-be rescuers may not realize the initial casualty collapsed from asphyxiation, assuming a slip, trip, or fall instead.
Delayed or uncoordinated response: Lack of immediate access to rescue equipment or poor coordination can delay effective rescue, reducing survival chances.
The challenge is twofold: ensuring that drills and training are robust and consistently implemented, while addressing the human factors that drive individuals to act impulsively, sometimes with tragic consequences.
What does a successful rescue entail?
A successful enclosed space rescue depends on replacing the impulse to rush in with disciplined, methodical action and strict adherence to emergency procedures.
Key requirements include:
- Proper equipment: Only trained personnel equipped with self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) should enter the space.
- Rescue equipment ready: Harnesses, lifelines, and communication devices must be available and set up at the entry point before any entry.
- Designated attendant: An attendant should remain outside the space to coordinate and monitor the rescue operation.
- Clear rescue plan: A well-communicated rescue plan with clearly defined roles for all involved is essential.
- Effective communication: Maintain constant communication between rescuers, attendants, and command throughout the operation.
- Realistic drills: Regular, realistic rescue drills ensure the crew can instinctively follow procedures under pressure.
- No impulsive entry: Unplanned or impulsive entry must never be allowed—always pause, assess, and follow the established rescue protocol.