Redningsselskapet report reveals safety failures after rescue worker death

An internal investigation by Redningsselskapet (RS) has revealed significant safety failures following the death of rescue worker Adrian Willyson Brask in Lofoten last September. Brask, 36, drowned while attempting to rescue an 11-year-old Swedish girl after a boat capsized in Nappstraumen.

The report from the RS investigation group (RUG) identified several critical deficiencies, including unclear and contradictory frameworks for diving operations. It noted that rescue dives were permitted even though RS divers lacked specific training. Furthermore, the report cited failures in safety barriers, equipment maintenance, training, and overall safety management.

Communication issues were also highlighted, as shore-based notification routines failed, meaning the emergency duty officer was only informed after the diver was already in distress. Janne Oddaker, Secretary General of Redningsselskapet, stated that the organization has not done enough to ensure the safety of employees and volunteers. The findings have been submitted to the Norwegian Safety Investigation Authority and the Norwegian Maritime Authority.