There has not been a comprehensive risk based approach to contingency planning for deep draught bulk carrier operations in Gladstone.
MSQ has advised the ATSB of increased vigilance on the part of pilots to gain better information about ships before their departure. The agency has also considered the use of escort tugs but has determined that their use would provide only a marginal risk reduction at a significant cost.
The analysis of trading ship operations in Gladstone that had been carried out by the relevant authorities had not appropriately considered all that could be done to prevent the grounding of a ship as a result of steering gear or main engine failure.
Action taken by Maritime Safety Queensland
Maritime Safety Queensland has advised that its pilots have worked with the Gladstone Port Corporation and terminal operators to improve ships' readiness for departure by implementing rigorous pre-departure checks and gaining improved intelligence on ships.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau recommends that Maritime Safety Queensland takes further action to address the issue of contingency planning for foreseeable events like the grounding of a deep draught ship as a result of steering gear or main engine failure.
This action does not address the unpredicted failure of steering gear. The authority has not reassesed its risk analysis.
