Investigation Reveals Safety Protocol Failures in Brisbane River Oil Tanker Grounding

An investigation conducted by the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) into the grounding of an oil tanker in the Brisbane River in February 2022 has uncovered significant deficiencies in emergency and risk management protocols. The incident, which occurred during adverse weather conditions, has emphasized the urgent need for enhanced safety measures within the maritime industry. The Hong Kong-flagged tanker named CSC Friendship broke free from its moorings at the Ampol product wharf in the Port of Brisbane on 27th February, carrying 32,000 tonnes of petroleum products. Despite efforts to lift anchor and the assistance of two tugs, the vessel ran aground 400 metres downstream.

Captain Vik Chaudhri, who heads the ATSB’s Marine Investigation Branch, highlighted that while the weather conditions surpassed initial forecasts, the heightened safety risks to shipping and the port were predictable. Numerous warnings from the Bureau of Meteorology had provided ample information to identify and evaluate the likelihood of separation. Additionally, the investigation revealed that Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ), responsible for emergency management at the Port of Brisbane, lacked systematic risk management procedures, causing challenges in assessing and responding to hazardous river conditions.

In response to the incident, MSQ has implemented significant operational changes, including policy revisions and the establishment of a specialized maritime emergency management team. However, the ATSB has issued a safety advisory urging further enhancements. The report commended the safety measures implemented by pilotage provider Poseidon Sea Pilots and quay operator Ampol to address identified risks and enhance emergency procedures. Captain Chaudhri emphasized the importance of having structured processes in place to facilitate coordinated decision-making as risks escalate in future events, emphasizing the need for defined trigger points, priority lists, and contingency plans.

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