At the time of the fire, Baltimar Boreas did not have a dedicated lookout on the bridge during the hours of darkness. The high navigational risks that the ship was exposed to at night while navigating coastal waters were further increased when the second mate left the bridge unattended to investigate the fire alarm. This was inconsistent with sound bridge watch-keeping practice prescribed in the Seafarers Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Code and it was also in contravention of the international regulations for preventing collisions at sea.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau advises that ship owners, operators and masters should consider the safety implications of this safety issue and take action when considered appropriate. |
