A major dockyard incident at Imperial Dock, Leith, occurred on Wednesday, 22nd March, in which the large research vessel Petrel, was tipped over on dry dock by high winds. Emergency services and special operations teams were sent to the scene when the 3,000-tonne vessel became dislodged from its holdings. It is thought there were over fifty people on board at the time, and the incident has caused injuries ranging in severity to more than thirty people, several of whom have been hospitalised so far.
Pictures emerging on news sites and across social media platforms show the vast 250ft ship (owned by the US Navy) toppled onto its side at a 45-degree angle.
The US Consulate in Edinburgh said it was monitoring the situation and offering support to US citizens who were involved.
“We thank the emergency services for their prompt response. Our thoughts are with all those affected by this incident,” it added.
Read the full news story here.
Shipping and Dockyard Injury
Great Britain is now considered one of the safest places to work, and major incidents like this are thankfully rare. Over the years, dockyard companies and various sectors in the industry prone to injuries and workplace incidents have been increasing their efforts in safety measures and training their staff to the highest health and safety standards. However, thousands of employees are injured at work every year, and all construction, shipping, and dockyard industries must continue to ensure that safety remains a priority. Many of the activities in docks and shipyards can expose workers to various risks.
Investigations will likely be underway to ascertain the circumstances around this incident. Employees and any others injured in the accident may be entitled to compensation and damages for their injuries and loss of earnings.
Shipping and Dockyard Accidents Solicitors
Bridge McFarland LLP help clients locally and across the UK with shipping and dockyard accident claims with our expert teams of personal injury lawyers. We have offices in Lincoln, Louth, Hull, Market Rasen, Grimsby and Scarborough.
To speak to our friendly, professional, and experienced solicitors today about your personal injury claim, relating to a shipping and dockyard accident or otherwise, please call 0800 987 8800 or email enquiries@bmcf.co.uk. Alternatively, you can fill in our enquiry form.
