While the pilot provided limited advice to masters of ships visiting Christmas Island, the port operator did not provide the master of ships intending to berth using the buoys in Flying Fish Cove with any written or verbal guidance regarding berthing and unberthing arrangements and emergency contingencies.
The issuing of a handbook to all masters should be an effective mechanism for ensuring they are aware of the port operator’s requirements.
Patrick, as port operator, is in the process of enhancing the information made available to the pilot by preparing a Port Handbook. The handbook will be provided to the pilot to distribute to the master of each ship.
The draft version of the handbook will be provided to port users, including the stevedores and pilot, for review by the end of March 2013.
The ATSB is satisfied that the action taken adequately addresses this safety issue.
