- During departure, a tanker collided with a jetty due to procedural lapses, fatigue, and miscommunication.
- The pilot’s unfamiliarity with updated port conditions and lack of mandatory tug assistance exacerbated the situation.
- Fatigue and a breakdown in Bridge Resource Management (BRM) significantly contributed to the accident.
A tanker collided with a jetty during departure due to procedural lapses, fatigue, and poor communication, highlighting the importance of robust maritime safety practices.
What Happened
The tanker’s stern collided with the jetty while navigating strong ebb tide conditions without a tug. Significant damage occurred before the vessel was re-berthed with tug assistance.
Why It Happened
- Fatigue: The pilot’s impaired judgment and reaction time were attributed to fatigue.
- Unfamiliarity: The pilot was unaware of berth extensions and navigational constraints.
- Communication Failures: Mandatory tug requirements were not communicated to the pilot, port duty officer, or VTS officer.
- Breakdown in BRM: The bridge team failed to provide structured support or assign clear roles during the maneuver.
Recommendations & Precautions
- Bridge Resource Management (BRM): Ensure clear communication, defined roles, and collaborative decision-making during critical operations.
- Master’s Authority: Prioritize safety over schedules; delay departures if necessary.
- Effective Information Dissemination: Establish robust systems to communicate mandatory safety requirements, such as tug use, to all stakeholders.
- Seaman-like Precautions: Employ additional safeguards, such as tugs, in challenging conditions even when not mandated.
This incident underscores the need for vigilance, teamwork, and proactive safety measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
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Source: Nautinst
