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Implementation of SMS procedures
Date issue released
Safety Issue Description

Cape Splendor’s safety management system (SMS) procedures for working over the side of the ship were not effectively implemented. As a result, the ship’s crew routinely did not take all the required safety precautions when working over the side. Further, they did not consider that any such precautions were necessary if going over the side when not working.

Issue number
MO-2014-011-SI-01
Transport Function
Marine: Shipboard operations
Issue Owner
U-Ming Marine Transport, Singapore
Mode of Transport
Marine
Issue Status Justification

The safety action taken should reduce the risk of a similar accident and assist in improving the safety culture on U-Ming Marine Transport ships. The action should better assist the effective implementation of the SMS procedures for working over the side and/or at heights, including safe practices during recreational activities.

Proactive action
Action number
MO-2014-011-NSA-025
Action date
Action Status
Closed
Action description

U-Ming Marine Transport has advised the ATSB that it has taken the following safety action to address this safety issue:

  • Prohibited fishing from accommodation ladders and posted warning signs adjacent to ladders.
  • Issued a fleet-wide training record form that includes safety precautions for working on the accommodation ladder, and establishing and enhancing shipboard safety culture.
  • Updated man overboard search and rescue procedures across the fleet.
  • Improved the curriculum for shore-based training courses to learn from this accident and enhance safety culture across the fleet.
  • Upgraded fleet-wide risk assessments and procedures for working aloft/over the side to emphasise the importance of permits to work, use of personal protective equipment and ensuring suitable supervision.
  • Documented compliance with procedures and safety precautions for tasks completed out of work hours across a range of documents.
  • Directed company auditors to pay particular attention to the use of procedures and permits to work, and assessing crewmember attitudes to safety at work and during leisure.