Pasha Bulker 243 - Independent investigation into the grounding of ...

MR20080019
The queue of 57 ships off Newcastle on 7 June 2007 increased the risk of collisions,
groundings and other difficulties in the subsequent heavy weather. Capacity
allocations systems have proved effective in reducing the queue in the past and,
consequently, reduced the risks to ships, the port and the environment. The
significant public benefit of enhanced safety that results from a reduced queue had
not been identified or recognised during the application process for the
authorisation of these allocation systems.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau recommends that Port Waratah Coal
Services, individually and as a member of the Hunter Valley Coal Chain Logistics
Team, take action to address this safety issue.
4.4
ATSB safety advisory notices
MS20080015
The safety management system on board Pasha Bulker did not provide the master
with specific guidance about safely putting to sea in adverse weather. Neither the
master’s standing orders nor the passage plan form prescribed in the safety
management system contained any guidance with regard to bridge resource or team
management or encouraged its use.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau advises that the owners, operators and
masters of ships should consider the safety implications of this safety issue and take
action when considered appropriate.
MS20080016
Water depths in parts of Newcastle anchorage make it difficult for sufficient length
of cable to be deployed to anchor a ship safely. On 7-8 June 2007, the masters of a
number of ships in the anchorage had not deployed the Admiralty recommended
minimum scope of anchor cable and fewer still had deployed the minimum
considered to be acceptable by the International Association of Classification
Societies.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau advises that the owners, operators and
masters of ships should consider the safety implications of this safety issue and take
action when considered appropriate.
MS20080017
On 8 June 2007, a number of ships off Newcastle were inappropriately ballasted for
the forecast weather and some took additional ballast after the onset of heavy
weather. These ships were exposed not only to the risk of manoeuvring difficulties
but also structural damage caused by the water ballast sloshing in partly filled cargo
holds while they were ballasting their holds in the heavy weather.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau advises that the owners, operators and
masters of ships should consider the safety implications of this safety issue and take
action when considered appropriate.
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