The Pilbara Ports Authority's port user guidelines and procedures did not reflect the best practice escort towage guidance detailed in the port's draft escort towage strategy and business continuity plan. The detail of these improved towage practices, designed to reduce the risk of channel blockages, were also not integrated into the Port Hedland Pilots' safety management system and were consequently, inconsistently applied by pilots.
The integration of the recommended towage allocation, practices and guidelines of the escort towage strategy into the port user guidelines and procedures document should adequately address this safety issue.
On 8 November 2022, the Pilbara Ports Authority (PPA) updated the port user guidelines and procedures document to include the towage allocation and tug retention guidelines and procedures as required by the escort towage strategy for outbound ships. Additionally, the document mandated that, unless deemed necessary by the pilot through a risk assessment, the forward escort tugs were to be kept fast until beacons 30-31.
On 28 November 2024, the PPA further advised that the port’s operational model enabled pilots to adapt their tug utilisation strategies in real time, based on variables such as tidal windows and other environmental constraints, and supported by the port’s vessel traffic services and other resources.
