This report should be read in conjunction with Port arrival and berthing mishaps (1), (3) and (4)
Outline:
CHIRP has received several reports relating to port arrival and berthing. The following reports cover communication failings, maintenance issues, and operational concerns.
What the Reporter told us (2):
Sailed a car carrier this evening and noted a few issues for consideration.
- Bow thruster not available due to auxiliary engine issue. Master stated bow thruster could not be used without risk of blacking out the This was only mentioned when the pilot arrived on the bridge for departure. I called for a second tug.
- Unmooring was slow due to winch pumps requiring changing-over during the operations, both forward and I recall this from previous operations with this vessel.
- Elevator not working, fourteen decks from accommodation level to pilot embarkation deck, resulting in a slower than expected transit time through the vessel.
- Ships VHF radio communications broken at times, could be a handset issue?
CHIRP Comment:
The Maritime Advisory Board commented that many pilots do have the option to delay sailing, take the ship to anchor until faults are rectified, and to inform Port State inspectors (although the power to do so is unfortunately not universal). In this case there are several issues, all indicative of poor mooring equipment design, work preparation and maintenance failings – overall a non- effective safety management system. This is unfortunately not uncommon. Ship’s personnel often live and work with deficient equipment for such a long time that it becomes the standard, and is not regarded as being deficient.
Report Ends.
