Safety Issue
At the time of the fire, Baltimar Boreas did not have a
dedicated lookout on the bridge during the hours of darkness. The
high navigational risks that the ship was exposed to at night while
navigating coastal waters were further increased when the second
mate left the bridge unattended to investigate the fire alarm. This
was inconsistent with sound bridge watch-keeping practice
prescribed in the Seafarers Training, Certification and
Watchkeeping (STCW) Code and it was also in contravention of the
international regulations for preventing collisions at sea.
Safety Advisory Notice
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau advises that ship owners,
operators and masters should consider the safety implications of
this safety issue and take action when considered appropriate.