An inability to safely deploy lifeboats or life rafts was one of 31 failures discovered on a P&O Ferries vessel, according to a new report. Inspectors for the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) found that the "launching arrangements for survival craft" on European Causeway were "not as required".
The ship has two lifeboats and several life rafts for use in emergencies. Among other flaws identified by the MCA were an inflatable evacuation slide not properly maintained, inadequate fire prevention systems and crew having a lack of familiarity with radio equipment.
There were also problems with labour conditions, navigation and documentation. The Paris Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) - an alliance of 27 national maritime authorities, including the UK - listed the 31 safety deficiencies but did not provide further details.
