Suitable atmospheric testing equipment was not available in Port Hedland to ensure safe entry to fire-affected spaces on board Marigold. Access to these areas was not controlled until 53 hours after the fire.
The ATSB acknowledges the safety action taken by the Department of Fire & Emergency Services (DFES) by purchasing additional photo ionisation detectors (PID). The additional PIDs will permit calibration and maintenance to be performed on an exchange basis. Therefore, a PID should be available in the Pilbara region for use whenever it is needed. Without undue delay, risk management of shipboard atmospheres can now be communicated and risk mitigation strategies implemented. The ASTB considers that the safety action taken has reduced the risk to an acceptable level.
