The Hidden Patterns Behind Maritime Accidents Revealed in New Industry Report by ShipIn Systems PBC and NorthStandard
New research from ShipIn Systems PBC and NorthStandard shows that vessel-based risk is not only concentrated among a smaller proportion of vessels, but can also be identified through measurable operational patterns, giving ship and shore teams the opportunity to intervene earlier, focus support where it is most needed and prevent emerging issues from becoming incidents. ...
ShipIn Systems PBC and NorthStandard have unveiled a new industry report that sheds light on the hidden patterns behind maritime accidents. The study reveals that vessel-based risk is not evenly distributed across fleets, but rather concentrated among a small number of vessels, accounting for nearly 70% of reported accidents. These risk-concentrated vessels exhibit measurable operational patterns well before an incident occurs, offering an opportunity for early intervention.
According to the Maritime Risk Report 2026, which combines Lloyd’s List Intelligence SeaSearcher casualty data with ShipIn’s FleetVision™ platform analysis, vessels with FleetVision scores below 75 recorded accident rates five and a half times higher than vessels scoring above 85. These lower-performing vessels also generated significantly more recurring deviations across various aspects of operation, including bridge operations, deck safety, mooring activity, and personal protective equipment (PPE) compliance.
The report emphasizes that safety should be measured before incidents occur, rather than after the fact. Osher Perry, Founder and CEO of ShipIn Systems, highlights that risk is visible early on, embedded in everyday operating patterns. Fleet managers can now act before accidents arise by identifying where risk is concentrating and directing attention accordingly.
Furthermore, the research shows that these risk patterns can change. In a separate cohort of 250 vessels monitored for 12 months, average operational deviations fell by 96%, from approximately 230 per vessel per month to just eight. This improvement was sustained across bridge, deck safety, and PPE activity.
Colin Gillespie, Global Head of Loss Prevention at NorthStandard, stresses that while operational data is abundant, turning it into actionable insights remains a challenge. The goal of the report is to help maritime stakeholders identify and address risk early, enabling ship and shore teams to work together and foster a proactive safety culture across the fleet.
The findings underscore a shift towards a more proactive model of maritime safety. By observing where risk is building, resolving issues before they escalate into accidents or losses, and adopting safer operating practices, fleets can enhance overall safety and reduce the occurrence of maritime accidents.
Written by urgent.news from Hellenic Shipping News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
