Regulation 6 Ordering of Investigation

Any accident may be investigated. Where an accident occurs, the Chief Inspector shall decide whether or not an investigation should be carried out and, where a report has been received under regulation 5(1) or (2), shall cause the master or owner to be notified of his decision. He may cause to be obtained such information concerning the accident as he considers necessary, and the owner or master of the ship concerned shall provide such information to the best of his ability and knowledge.

An investigation may be carried out by one or more inspectors of marine accidents appointed under section 33(1) of the Act, or additionally or alternatively by such other person or persons as the Chief Inspector may appoint specifically for the purpose in circumstances where there are not inspectors appointed under the said Act conveniently available or where such a person has special qualifications or experience. Such other person or persons shall have the powers conferred on an inspector by section 27 of the Merchant Shipping Act 1979.

The Chief Inspector may order that the investigation takes the form of an Inspector’s Inquiry.

Public notice that an Inspector’s Inquiry has been ordered shall be given in such manner as the Chief Inspector may think fit, and shall invite any persons who so desire to make representations to the Inspector in such a manner and within such a time as is specified in the notice.