This report, issued by the Marine Safety Investigation Unit (MSIU), details a steering failure incident involving a container vessel in the Port of Melbourne on 25 May 2023. The event led to contact with a navigational beacon and prompted a safety investigation into steering system operation and crew proficiency.
What Happened
While departing the port under pilotage, the vessel experienced a loss of rudder response as speed increased. Despite helm orders, the rudder did not follow commands, causing the vessel to veer off track. Attempts to restore control failed, and the vessel’s stern contacted a navigational beacon, resulting in damage to the beacon and superficial paint damage to the vessel. Tug assistance stabilized the situation, and the vessel was safely berthed.
Why It Happened
A hydraulic pump bypass valve had been left open following earlier testing. While this condition allowed normal rudder checks at berth, it caused hydraulic leakage and loss of pressure under higher loads, leading to erratic steering at sea speed. Several officers lacked full proficiency in steering gear operation and changeover procedures. Ambiguity in procedural terminology—specifically the inconsistent use of “emergency steering” versus “steering gear failure”—led to unnecessary and incorrect reconfiguration of steering hydraulics. Fleetwide safety management procedures did not clearly define steering modes, increasing the risk of misconfiguration across the company’s vessels.
Actions Taken
- The operator circulated incident details fleetwide and reminded crews to follow the steering gear failure procedure.
- The fleetwide procedure was revised and retitled as “emergency steering procedure,” with clearer definitions and guidance for control transfer to the steering gear room. Fleetwide implementation is scheduled for March 2025.
- Ports Victoria updated harbour master’s directions to strengthen towage requirements for vessels transiting the Yarra River and issued additional guidance for vessels experiencing steering or engine failures.
Lessons Learned
- Always ensure steering gear valves are returned to normal configuration after testing or drills.
- Clear, unambiguous terminology in safety procedures is essential to prevent misinterpretation.
- Regular training and drills must emphasize practical proficiency in steering system operation, including changeover to local control.
- Pre-departure checks should not only confirm rudder movement visually but also consider system configuration integrity.
- Effective communication between the bridge and engine room teams is critical when troubleshooting steering anomalies.
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Source: MSIU
