- OceanGate did not conduct proper preventative maintenance on Titan following its 2022 expedition to the Titanic wreck.
- OceanGate did not properly store Titan during the extended off-season before its 2023 Titanic expedition, which likely contributed to the implosion.
The MBI report concludes that the implosion of Titan and the resulting loss of life were entirely preventable had OceanGate followed established engineering protocols and maintenance procedures. The report serves as a stark reminder of the importance of proper oversight, regulatory compliance, and workplace safety in the maritime industry.
As the investigation moves forward and recommendations are considered, the hope is that lessons learned from the tragic loss of Titan will lead to positive changes in the industry to prevent similar incidents in the future.
OceanGate’s mishandling of the data provided by the system has raised serious concerns about the safety and integrity of its operations. It failed to conduct a meaningful analysis of the data, leading to a series of incidents that compromised the hull and critical components of the submersible, known as Titan.
Despite experiencing mishaps that negatively impacted Titan’s hull during dives prior to the incident, OceanGate neglected to conduct a detailed investigation. The carbon fibre hull design and construction of Titan introduced flaws that weakened its structural integrity, yet preventative maintenance was not carried out.
Furthermore, OceanGate’s toxic workplace environment, characterized by the firing of senior staff members and the suppression of safety concerns, contributed to the overall failure in safety culture. The company’s CEO misrepresented Titan as indestructible, creating a false sense of security for passengers and regulators.
The investigation also highlighted the lack of comprehensive regulations for the oversight and operation of manned submersibles in the United States. Additionally, the absence of timely government intervention following a whistleblower complaint in 2018 missed an opportunity for regulatory compliance or halting OceanGate’s Titanic expeditions.
In light of these failures, OceanGate has suspended all activities, reflecting the gravity of the situation. The company’s disregard for safety protocols, combined with a flawed organizational culture, has jeopardized the safety of its operations and put the lives of passengers at risk.
Moving forward, it is imperative for OceanGate to address these systemic issues, conduct thorough investigations, and implement stringent safety measures to prevent future incidents. The company must prioritize safety over financial considerations and prioritize regulatory compliance to ensure the well-being of all involved in its operations.