The MAIB has this week published a safety warning video addressing the tragic capsize of the conventional tug Biter in February 2023, an incident that tragically resulted in the loss of two lives. The video, issued within the MAIB Safety Bulletin 1/2026, highlights critical lessons regarding towage planning, the impact of speed on towline forces, the correct rigging of gob ropes, and the vital importance of maintaining watertight integrity.
As part of our commitment to safety and the need to avoid future occurrences, the British Tugowners Association and the UK Chamber of Shipping have supported the development of the video and encourage members and industry to review, share widely, and heed the findings.
Read the Bulletin and watch the video in full here.
In particular the BTA supports and reinforces the safety critical issues identified by the MAIB, including the need for the vessel’s master, marine pilot and the tug crew to:
- have a detailed understanding of the plan for the employment of the tugs
- remember that a small increase in speed can result in a large increase in the force acting on the towlines, escalating the risk of something going wrong
- ensure that the tug’s gob rope is correctly rigged
- keep the tug’s doors and hatches closed during towing operations.
The BTA, UK Maritime Pilots’ Association and Workboat Association jointly published “Gog Ropes: Industry Advice” in November 2025, in direct response to the tragic incident and recommendations from the MAIB. The guidance aims to improve safety in conventional towage operations, through provides practical recommendations for the safe and effective use of gog rope systems, underscoring the shared commitment to reducing risk in high-consequence towage operations.
The BTA is working closely with other Associations in fully responding to the other recommendations set out by the MAIB in its investigation report, and will share these with industry once complete.
For any comments or queries, please contact BTA Secretary, Robert Merrylees, rmerrylees@ukchamberofshipping.com
