Fatal Incident at Cairnryan Ferry Port
A port worker tragically died after becoming entangled in two ropes connected to a ferry's mooring lines at Cairnryan, according to a sheriff's report.
John Hamilton, aged 60, was handling the lines on a quayside while they were being winched aboard Stena's Superfast VII when he was lifted off his feet. He was pulled against a metal structure on the quay, struck the ship's hull, and subsequently fell into Loch Ryan.
Findings from Fatal Accident Inquiry
Following a fatal accident inquiry (FAI), Sheriff Garry Sutherland stated that Stena implemented "comprehensive precautions" after the accident, which occurred in July 2024.
Work Procedures and Safety Measures
The FAI revealed that Hamilton, a port services operative (PSO), was adhering to established work procedures when the entanglement occurred. Sheriff Sutherland noted that the accident could have been prevented if certain precautions had been in place.
These precautions included an immediate halt to the recovery of the mooring lines when the PSO entered the area where the work was being conducted. Additionally, the person responsible for bringing the lines onboard should have been positioned on the ferry in a location that provided a full overview of the quayside.
Sheriff's Determination and Reflections
Sheriff Sutherland concluded that he had no recommendations to make, as Stena had taken steps that "might realistically prevent other deaths in similar circumstances."
In his determination, the sheriff described Hamilton as well loved by his family and friends, and a respected and experienced PSO.
He further stated that neither Hamilton nor his colleagues perceived any unusual danger during the operation, and that an "unfortunate combination" of factors led to his death.
"Neither he nor any of his colleagues were at fault."
The sheriff also acknowledged the "selfless efforts" of one of Hamilton's long-time workmates, which unfortunately could not prevent the fatality.
Lessons Learned and Safety Improvements
Sheriff Sutherland emphasized that Stena learned important lessons from the accident and promptly implemented comprehensive measures aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future.
