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Safety management system guidance
Date issue released
Safety Issue Description

Whyalla Launch Services’ safety management system did not provide effective guidance in relation to assessing a passenger’s ability to climb a pilot ladder or positioning of pilot launches while passengers were climbing and descending ladders. The system also referenced superseded SOLAS regulations and IMO resolutions relating to pilot ladders.

Issue number
MO-2013-007-SI-05
Transport Function
Marine: Shipboard operations
Issue Owner
Whyalla Launch Services
Mode of Transport
Marine
Proactive action
Action number
MO-2013-007-NSA-011
Organisation
Whyalla Launch Services
Action date
Action Status
Closed
Action description

Whyalla Launch Services has advised that the company’s safety management system has been updated as a result of the findings of this incident and an audit that was carried out in December 2013. Changes to the system include;

  • A copy of the IMPA pilot ladder arrangement diagram has been placed in a prominent place in Switcher’s wheelhouse.
  • The procedures now include a requirement for Switcher to be moved either ahead or astern once each person is on the pilot ladder so that the area is clear in the event of a fall. A man overboard recovery system will also be deployed in readiness for recovery from the sea if necessary.
  • The procedures now require all persons to remain in the wheelhouse of the launch until the deckhand is ready for the impending transfer. The skipper then allows one passenger at a time to go on deck for their boarding.
  • References to the most up-to-date SOLAS regulations and IMO resolutions have been included.
ATSB Response

The ATSB considers that the actions taken by Whyalla Launch Services should address this safety issue.