Marine safety issues and actions
Safety management system guidance
| Issue number: | MO-2013-007-SI-05 |
|---|---|
| Who it affects: | All masters owners and operators of ships and small vessels |
| Issue owner: | Whyalla Launch Services |
| Transport function: | Marine: Shipboard operations |
| Background: | Investigation Report 300-MO-2013-007 |
| Issue release date: | 09 May 2014 |
| Current issue status: | Adequately addressed |
|---|
Safety issue description
Whyalla Launch Services’ safety management system did not provide effective guidance in relation to assessing a passenger’s ability to climb a pilot ladder or positioning of pilot launches while passengers were climbing and descending ladders. The system also referenced superseded SOLAS regulations and IMO resolutions relating to pilot ladders.
Proactive Action
| Action number: | MO-2013-007-NSA-011 |
|---|---|
| Action organisation: | Whyalla Launch Services |
| Date: | 09 May 2014 |
| Action status: | Closed |
Whyalla Launch Services has advised that the company’s safety management system has been updated as a result of the findings of this incident and an audit that was carried out in December 2013. Changes to the system include;
- A copy of the IMPA pilot ladder arrangement diagram has been placed in a prominent place in Switcher’s wheelhouse.
- The procedures now include a requirement for Switcher to be moved either ahead or astern once each person is on the pilot ladder so that the area is clear in the event of a fall. A man overboard recovery system will also be deployed in readiness for recovery from the sea if necessary.
- The procedures now require all persons to remain in the wheelhouse of the launch until the deckhand is ready for the impending transfer. The skipper then allows one passenger at a time to go on deck for their boarding.
- References to the most up-to-date SOLAS regulations and IMO resolutions have been included.
ATSB comment:
The ATSB considers that the actions taken by Whyalla Launch Services should address this safety issue.