Photo: Svitzer via ATSB
An Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) investigation into the February 2022 grounding of an oil tanker in the Brisbane River has revealed significant shortcomings in emergency and risk management procedures.
The incident, which occurred during severe weather conditions, underscores the need for improved safety measures in maritime operations.
On February 27, 2022, the Hong Kong-flagged tanker CSC Friendship broke free from its mooring at the Ampol products wharf in the Port of Brisbane. Carrying 32,000 tonnes of petroleum products, the vessel was swept across the channel and grounded 400 meters downstream, despite efforts to deploy its anchor and the assistance of two tugs.
ATSB marine investigation manager Captain Vik Chaudhri stated, “While weather conditions exceeded those initially forecast, the associated increased safety risk to shipping and the port was foreseeable.” He added, “Numerous warnings from the Bureau of Meteorology provided sufficient information to identify and assess the increased likelihood of a breakaway”.
The investigation revealed that Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ), responsible for emergency management in the Port of Brisbane, lacked structured risk management processes. This deficiency hindered their ability to adequately assess and respond to the hazardous river conditions.
In response to the incident, MSQ has implemented significant operational changes, including policy updates and the establishment of a dedicated Maritime Emergency Management team. However, the ATSB has issued a safety recommendation for further improvements.
The report also highlighted safety actions taken by the pilotage provider, Poseidon Sea Pilots, and the wharf operator, Ampol, to address identified risks and improve emergency response procedures.
Captain Chaudhri concluded, “With these processes established, coordinated and timely decisions can be made when risks increase during future events like this one. Defined trigger points, priority lists, and escalation and contingency plans and procedures will help drive effective emergency responses”.
You can find the ATSB report here.
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