【Port】 Port Hedland do not recommend using Chafe Protection

Pilbara Port Authority(PPA) issued 'Pilbara Ports Marine Safety Bulletin Port Hedland 04/2024' about using chafe protection.

While chafe protection aims to safeguard mooring lines from wear and tear, however PPA has decided not to recommend its use, its implementation has inadvertently introduced substantial risks, particularly regarding crew safety and operational efficiency.

On the other hand, PPA also recommends to enhance crew training, to provide port-specific training for crew members on safe mooring practices without the use of chafe protection, this can include tidal range, frequency of attending the mooring lines, monitoring the port schedule for passing vessel’s impact and application of correct winch brake render test and render set point.

PPA may accept some types of chafe protection that are not attached to the mooring lines and can be installed on or removed from mooring arrangements i.e. on a chock or fairleads which must be done well before a vessel enters the Port or after the vessel departs. These alternatives can mitigate the risks associated with handling chafe protection under tension and reduce operational delays.

Please refer attached document.