MAIB issues report after man was electrocuted on superyacht
Baton Rouge. Image courtesy of Nigel Burgess Limited.
The MAIB has published its accident investigation report into the fatal injuries sustained by the chief engineer on board the Isle of Man registered motor yacht Baton Rouge at Falmouth Harbour, Antigua on 23 February 2024.
On the morning of 23 February 2024, the chief engineer on Baton Rouge was electrocuted while working on the vessel’s engine room ventilation system, the report says.
According to reports at the time, chief engineer Roy Temme, 47, was replacing a damper actuator, which was situated in a ventilation overpressure duct compartment.
The MAIB report details that despite efforts to resuscitate him, the chief engineer’s heart could not be restarted, and he was pronounced dead later that morning.
According to the MAIB, a permit to work was not issued for the task and the associated hazards were not identified. The yacht’s safety management system definition of an enclosed space was incorrect and focused solely on toxic atmospheres.
Since the accident the yacht’s manager, Nigel Burgess Limited, has updated its permit to work guidance for electrical systems; revised the enclosed space definition in the safety management systems of vessels under its management; and promulgated fleet guidance on the changes to the enclosed space definition, permits to work and the need for on board risk controls, training and drills.
In view of the actions taken, no recommendations have been made by the MAIB.
