The Virgin Islands is taking steps to boost its maritime safety standards, with the recent participation of Chief Marine Accident Investigator of the Marine Safety Investigation and Reporting Authority MSIRA, Mr. Jerome Padmore, in an international conference in Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA.

Mr. Padmore joined other marine investigators, law enforcement officials, surveyors, marine fire investigators and maritime insurers from the United States and eleven other countries, for the four-day training seminar, from February 22-25, 2026. The training was facilitated by the International Association of Marine Investigators (IAMI). 

“The programme was both intensive and innovative, concentrating on enhancing investigative capabilities through improved inspection techniques, effective use of emerging technologies, and advanced interviewing skills,” he reported. “It also focused on modern tools that are transforming marine investigations, such as digital evidence capture, the latest data recovery methods, and vessel examination procedures designed to increase accuracy, efficiency, and the integrity of evidence.”

According to the Chief Marine Accident Investigator, equally valuable was the opportunity to engage with a wide range of industry vendors showcasing the latest innovations in marine investigative technology. He said these interactions provided insight into practical solutions that can enhance how to conduct investigations, preserve evidence, and deliver improved reports.

“In addition to acquiring valuable technical knowledge, the experience fostered strong professional relationships with marine investigators and safety experts around the world,” Mr. Padmore stated. He believes that collaboration at this level is crucial, as marine investigations continue to grow increasingly advanced in technology. “By strengthening these global networks, we improve our collective ability to learn from each other and enhance maritime safety standards for everyone.”

The International Association of Marine Investigators (IAMI) is a global non-profit organisation and is the premier authority on combating marine theft and fraud while setting international standards for accident reconstruction and vessel forensics to improve maritime safety worldwide.

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About:

The Marine Safety Investigation and Reporting Authority (MSIRA) operates under the Premier’s Office and is the official body responsible for the independent investigation of marine accidents and incidents within the territorial waters of The Virgin Islands. Guided by the Merchant Shipping (Accident Reporting and Investigation) Regulations, 2020 and the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Casualty Investigation Code, MSIRA's primary objective is to enhance maritime safety through fact-based investigations, the identification of safety issues, and the issuance of recommendations aimed at preventing future occurrences. MSIRA investigations do not seek to apportion blame or establish liability.