The Australian Transport Safety Bureau has commenced an investigation into the grounding of the bulk carrier Hagen Oldendorff in Port Hedland, Western Australia, on 9 April 2022.
At 0140 WST on 9 April, the ship was outbound in the channel when it was reported to have had an issue with its steering due to faulty rudder indicators in its wheelhouse. The pilot conducting the ship called nearby tugs to assist and then took it to an anchorage outside the port, where it was subsequently reported to be taking water into two ballast tanks.
In late July and August, the ATSB was provided additional information that indicated that the ship had grounded on the western side of the channel and had moved along the edge of the channel for several hundred metres. After obtaining further information from the port authority and the pilot company, the ATSB decided to investigate the incident.
As part of the investigation, the ATSB will examine the circumstances leading to the grounding and determine contributing factors, including any safety issues. The investigation will include interviewing the pilot and other relevant persons, analysing recorded data for the incident and examining relevant records and documents.
Should a critical safety issue be identified at any time during the investigation, the ATSB will immediately notify operators and regulators so appropriate and timely safety action can be taken. A final report will be published at the conclusion of the investigation.