Delegates to the recent Marine Accident Investigators' International Forum (MAIIF) in Beijing recently raised concerns about the spate of marine accidents that occurred over the past year.

"We have again noted, and continue to be concerned about the number of collisions between ships resulting from the watch officer's fatigue, complacency, or disregard for the Colregs. We also discussed the seemingly increasing number of fatalities and injuries resulting from seafarers entering enclosed spaces without regard for proper procedures or personal safety," statement from MAIIF said.

The event, held by the Maritime Safety Authority of China, brought together more than 60 marine accident investigators representing 28 maritime administrations.