Two separate breakaway incidents involving container ships at the Port of Brisbane have underscored the critical need for strong emergency and risk management procedures, as highlighted by an Australian Transport Safety Bureau investigation, reports Australian Transport Safety Bureau.
Addressing Risks
The May 2022 incidents, involving the breakaway of the container ships OOCL Brisbane and CMA CGM Bellini at the Port of Brisbane, occurred after heavy rainfall led to significant freshwater inflows and strong currents in the river.
These strong currents, combined with the interaction forces from nearby vessels, exceeded the mooring capacity of both ships. OOCL Brisbane lost all mooring lines and drifted into the river, while CMA CGM Bellini’s forward mooring lines parted, causing the ship to drift from the wharf.
The ATSB investigation revealed that Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) and Poseidon Sea Pilots (PSP) lacked a joint process to effectively identify and assess hazards and risks associated with abnormal environmental conditions, such as the strong currents experienced during the incident.
The ATSB Chief Commissioner emphasized the critical need for robust and clearly defined emergency and risk management arrangements to handle port shipping movements during such unusual conditions. Both incidents highlighted the importance of proactive measures to address potential risks associated with extreme weather events and their impact on port operations.
Collaboration With Stakeholders
Mr. Mitchell acknowledged the safety actions taken by both MSQ and PSP in response to these incidents, including a previous breakaway incident investigated by the ATSB.
PSP and MSQ have collaborated with various stakeholders to improve extreme weather event planning and response. They have established the Port of Brisbane Maritime Emergency Working Group and developed guidelines for its role in responding to port emergencies.
To enhance situational awareness, three additional current meters have been installed in the river, with further installations planned. Data from these meters will be shared with key stakeholders, including PSP. PSP has also contributed to revisions of MSQ’s standard port procedures, including the joint development of procedures for safe vessel movements under flood conditions, utilizing MSQ’s bridge/ship simulator.
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Source: Australian Transport Safety Bureau
