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Toxic Gases Claim Young Engineer's Life on Fishing Boat
18 Oct
Summary
- Apprentice engineer Conor Moseley died from toxic gases on a fishing trawler.
- A fire suppression system unexpectedly activated, filling the engine room with gas.
- The operating company was fined £100,000 for safety failings.
An apprentice engineer, 20-year-old Conor Moseley, tragically lost his life on November 15, 2019, while working aboard the fishing trawler Resurgam in Newlyn Harbour, Cornwall. The incident occurred when a newly installed fire suppression system unexpectedly activated within the cramped engine room, filling the space with hot, toxic gases and severely impairing visibility.
Conor was overcome by carbon monoxide and other toxic substances, preventing his escape from the confined area. Despite attempts by colleagues and a rescue by Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service, he could not be revived. Truro Crown Court heard of significant health and safety failings, including the absence of an evacuation plan and inadequate leadership.
Following the tragedy, W. Stevenson & Sons Limited, the owner and operator of the vessel, was fined £100,000 and ordered to pay £27,906 in costs. The Health and Safety Executive's investigation highlighted a failure to properly assess risks from multiple contractors working simultaneously in hazardous conditions, emphasizing the need for a permit-to-work system and a comprehensive written plan for shared responsibilities and emergency arrangements.
