Recommendation 5: Those involved in maritime search and rescue should adopt formally the Mass Persons in the Water Triage procedure to govern the operational response to a maritime search and rescue incident when the number of people requiring rescue exceeds the capability of the search and rescue units on scene. The Multiple Persons in Water Triage Tool developed by HMCG has been adopted by the RNLI and vessels that are contracted by Border Security Command (BSC). Following international consultation and endorsement through the International Mass Rescue Federation (IMRF), the RNLI have now implemented the tool throughout the UK to all their lifeboat crews. In March 2026, HMCG shared the tool with all other SAR delivery partners, including independent lifeboats and Bristow Helicopters. The tool is also included in HMCG’s Mass Rescue Operations Plan, which is used by operational HMCG staff as a framework for how to best respond to a large-scale mass rescue operation. It outlines the roles within a response, how HMCG should respond and requirements to train, exercise and continuously develop.