OceanGate CEO's reckless decisions led to Titan tragedy

In June 2023, the Titan submersible, operated by OceanGate, tragically imploded during a dive, resulting in the deaths of all five individuals aboard. The incident raised significant concerns about safety protocols and reckless management within the company. The documentary 'Titan: The OceanGate Submersible Disaster' sheds light on these unsafe practices, particularly emphasizing the behavior of Stockton Rush, the CEO of OceanGate, who disregarded safety regulations and the advice of experienced personnel. The documentary features accounts from key figures involved in the project, including former director of marine operations David Lochridge, who attempted to raise serious concerns regarding Titan's design and safety procedures. Lochridge's warnings about the vessel's carbon fiber hull and its potential risks were met with resistance from Rush, who insisted on implementing an experimental approach despite significant risks. This culminated in a particularly dangerous dive to the SS Andrea Doria wreck, where Lochridge's apprehensions were ignored, leading to tension between him and Rush. Ultimately, this situation illustrates a broader issue concerning the dismissal of critical safety regulations by individuals who adhere to the belief that rules do not apply to them. As the documentary unfolds, it critiques the implications of such beliefs when human lives are at stake, showcasing how the recklessness of a few can have devastating consequences for many. The tragic outcome of the Titan's 80th dive, which was marked by a loud noise on board before the implosion, serves as a chilling reminder of the need for stringent safety adherence in high-stakes undertakings and the importance of listening to experienced voices within any organization.