Accident statistics for the period 2000 to 2010 show marked tendencies.

The increase in shipping accidents is mainly due to a rise in the number of groundings and collisions. Colissions show a significant increase, up from 18 in 2006 to 50 in 2010. Other major accident categories are fires and explosions, in 2010 the third most common category of accident and one of the major reasons for total loss of vessels.

– We are concerned with the negative development in groundings and collisions, espescially where high speed passenger craft and offshore installations are involved. These accidents have high damage potential for human life and material values, comments Director General of Shipping and Navigation, Olav Akselsen.

The positive trend in occupational (work-related) accidents has been clear and continuous the entire 10 year period. The Norwegian Maritime Directorate views this as a result of a long-term, coordinated effort in the maritime community. The trend is marked in all vessel categories.

Read the full report (PDF)