Port Hedland’s emergency response teams did not use the ship’s international shore fire connection. As a result, Marigold’s fire main was not pressurised with water from ashore.
The Department of Fire & Emergency Services (DFES) advised the ATSB their internal procedures direct that a connection to the international shore coupling should be undertaken as soon as possible to ensure water supply maintained. Additionally, personnel attending the DFES Marine Fire Support and Marine Fire Assessment and Containment are trained in the use of international shore connections. DFES have worked with BHP Billiton (first responders) during drills subsequent to the fire. Additionally, DFES volunteers will also attend the site with fire caches containing international shore connections.
The ASTB has closed the safety issue as the safety action taken by DFES has reduced the risk to an acceptable level.
The ATSB recommends that the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) takes action to address the safety issue regarding the appropriate use of international shore connections to pressurise ship fire mains when responding to shipboard fires.
