On 7 May 2026, the Transport Accident and Incident Investigation Bureau (TNGIIB) organised training for representatives of the Coast Guard Service on actions to be taken in cases of marine accidents and incidents. The training was conducted by the Head of the Marine Accident Investigation Division of TNGIIB, CPT Aleksandrs Pavlovičs.
During the training, an overview of current trends in maritime safety was provided, assessing both global statistics and the situation in Latvia and the waters under its jurisdiction. Particular attention was devoted to notification procedures for marine accidents and incidents, as well as to the coordination of cooperation mechanisms between TNGIIB and the Coast Guard Service under various possible accident scenarios.
The training also addressed initial actions related to the preservation and collection of evidence, data acquisition, and the recording of other information essential for investigations. These issues are particularly important in situations where an accident occurs at sea and investigators are unable to immediately board the vessel. In such cases, the initial actions taken by the captain and crew are of significant importance, as the preservation of evidence and collection of information must begin immediately after an accident or incident has been identified.
The training also highlighted upcoming changes to the competence of TNGIIB. From the summer of 2027, the Bureau is expected to assume responsibility for the investigation of fishing vessel accidents, including accidents involving fishing vessels with a length of less than 12 metres. Consequently, the Coast Guard Service will also play an important role in the timely notification of such occurrences to TNGIIB.
TNGIIB highly values the opportunity to strengthen mutual cooperation with the Coast Guard Service. Regular exchange of information, a common understanding of actions to be taken in accident situations, and practical readiness to respond оперативно are essential prerequisites for effective marine accident investigations and for improving maritime safety in Latvian waters.