InterManager has called for urgent industry action on enclosed space safety after its latest research highlighted persistent failures in procedures, training, leadership and accident prevention. The organisation has recorded 354 enclosed space accidents over the past 30 years, between 1996 and 2026, across tankers, bulkers, general cargo ships, passenger vessels, containerships and other vessel types.
Its latest seafarer survey identifies a recurring gap between safety procedures and operational reality onboard. Over 900 respondents highlighted overly complex paperwork, inadequate time and manpower, commercial pressure, insufficient practical training and a reluctance to address underlying causes.
The survey also highlights concerns that inspections can focus on superficial compliance rather than the effectiveness of actual safety practices. It also identifies opportunities to make greater use of real-time gas sensors, wearable technology, digital permits, hands-free communications and unmanned inspection tools to reduce human exposure.
The organisation says its latest seafarer research points to two clear priorities. The need for continuous professional development, rather than one-off training, and for seafarers to be more directly engaged in the systems, ships and resources they are expected to operate safely.
Current enclosed space training is often concentrated around a single exercise when people commence their careers. InterManager says this must now be enhanced to deliver competence, rather than just training, particularly as enclosed space entry training is being considered as part of the current review of STW requirements, with the International Chamber of Shipping leading industry input.
InterManager will explore the survey findings and wider enclosed space safety concerns during a webinar, run in conjunction with The Nautical Institute, on 27 October 2026 at 10am GMT. The webinar will bring together industry experts, Captain Pradeep Chawla, CEO of Marie Pals, Captain Garry Hallett from InterManager and Richard Cowburn, human factors specialist, to discuss where the industry stands now on enclosed space safety, how seafarers and shore-based stakeholders feel about current practice, and what practical action is needed next.
(Photo from InterManager)