IMO recommendation on triage tool
The Department for Transport must consider recommending to the International Maritime Organization that it consider incorporating an in-water mass casualty triage tool within its policies and procedures.
How was this evidence gathered?
Response
Accepted
Response
AcceptedGovernment agrees that the international sharing of best practice and knowledge is beneficial, including in the form of guidance where appropriate. The IMRF updated its Mass Rescue Operations Guidance in June 2025. This provides extensive information and guidance on planning for and executing mass rescue operations, including endorsement of the Multiple Persons in Water Triage Tool, which was developed in the UK and presented internationally by HMCG’s Medical Director and Head of Operational Procedures. The International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) current International Maritime and Aeronautical Search and Rescue (IAMSAR) Manual references this updated IMRF guidance in section 6.15.6. Given this, the Department considers that the intent of this recommendation has been fulfilled through this delivery route and does not plan to make a separate recommendation to the IMO.