A number of accidents involving collisions with anchored barges
The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) issued a notice reminding seafarers, others involved in the operation of barges, and those engaged in operations in the vicinity of barges, of aspects of the COLREGS which relate to safe operations.
There have been a number of accidents and incidents, some fatal, involving collisions with anchored barges or barges being towed.
The purpose of this Marine Notice is therefore to remind seafarers, and all others involved with the operation of barges, or operations in the vicinity of
barges, of aspects of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (1972) – the “COLREGS” – which relate to safe operations.
The COLREGS have been carefully examined in the context of incidents involving barges and have been found to be adequate if properly adhered
to. The following extracts include elements of the COLREGS that AMSA believes are particularly relevant to navigation safety in the vicinity of
barges.
Masters, skippers or coxswains, and all deck watchkeepers need to thoroughly know and understand the full COLREGS and their
application in all situations.
For further information, click here.
Source: AMSA