Safety issue
| Safety issue description |
Maritime Constructions did not adequately identify and control risks associated with the operation of tug and barge combinations within the port. This included controls such as providing clear guidance and procedures associated with the use of the pilotage exemption certificate system, and using available in-house bathymetric data for improved control of grounding risk. |
|---|---|
| Issue number | MO-2025-005-SI-01 |
| Issue owner | Maritime Constructions |
| Transport function | Marine: Shipboard operations |
| Issue status | Closed – Adequately addressed |
| Date issue released | 20/08/2026 |
| Issue status justification |
Maritime Constructions has updated its safety management system to strengthen its local knowledge training, passage planning and watchkeeping procedures, which should adequately address the safety issue. |
Safety action
| Action type | Proactive action |
|---|---|
| Action number | MO-2025-005-PSA-001 |
| Organisation | Maritime Constructions |
| Action description |
On 25 June 2026, Maritime Constructions advised that it had updated its safety management system (SMS) to strengthen its training, watchkeeping and passage planning procedures. Under the revised SMS, new masters must first serve as mates under the guidance of an experienced master with local knowledge before taking command, and training must include guidance on known shallow water areas. Additionally, the SMS provides that the company will undertake operation-specific risk assessments to identify crew competency requirements and, where required, arrange appropriate additional training. Updated watchkeeping procedures for tug and barge operations require the master to consider restricted visibility, tow configuration, blind sectors and reduced manoeuvrability when assigning crew to lookout duties. Further, the SMS now makes it a requirement that passage plans for every transit evaluate current bathymetric survey data, tidal heights, weather and any variables which may reduce vessel manoeuvrability. |
| Action status | Closed |