Safety issue

Sea-Tow did not provide adequate guidance for its tug masters with respect to anchoring a barge and leaving it unattended. Furthermore, the Sea-Tow safety management system did not provide procedures or guidance to disseminate safety information following accidents or incidents involving tugs or barges.

Safety Recommendation

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau acknowledges the safety action taken by Sea-Tow and recommends that the Sea-Tow takes further action to address this safety issue.