Casualties and loss of life in bulk carriers from 1980 to 2010

► Bulk carrier and crew losses have fallen over time, but have increased in recent years since 2005. ► This is linked partly to the recent loss of several carriers that were carrying nickel ore cargoes. ► The strongest study predictors of foundering and fatalities were flag, cargo, location, weather and tonnage. ► Losses were often highest for new or rapidly expanding flags of convenience.