KIWIRAIL has declared that Interislander is implementing an “array of improvements” to ensure the successful future integration of new systems on its ferries, in the wake of the Aratere grounding in June.
The admission comes as New Zealand’s Transport Accident Investigation Commission (TAIC) yesterday (31 October) released an “interim factual report” on the 21 June incident.
According to Interislander executive general manager Duncan Roy, the improvements will be enacted especially in change and contractor management, affirming the safety of customers, the public, and company people is paramount.
“Our response to this incident reflects our commitment to learning from it and doing better,” Mr Roy said.
The New Zealand rail operator mentioned that the latest TAIC report does not include any findings or recommendations.
Rather, as TAIC stated, the report sets out the facts and circumstances established to this point in the Commission’s inquiry, which is ongoing.
KiwiRail said that immediately following the grounding, Interislander worked with Kongsberg, which provided the new steering system, to understand what had happened.
“Having identified the cause of the event, we issued new guidance on the use of the autopilot system and upgraded re-training of deck staff on the control system,” Mr Roy commented.
“This was followed by a full competency test and updated direction on best practice use.
“We are continuing to implement recommended actions based on lessons we have learned in our own investigation. We are focused on training, change management and bridge management, and are continuing to work with Kongsberg.”
Interislander has reportedly established a Technical Advisory Group (TAG) to regularly review asset performance, operational and technical standards and change management, and the group has worked with independent engineering consultants to review and enhance the company’s risk assessment processes.
KiwiRail pointed out that Aratere has made approximately 300 sailings since returning to service following the incident, and for the past two months its fleet has achieved 100 percent reliability and a 94 per cent on-time performance.
“On average each year, Interislander operates around 3400 crossings of Cook Strait, safely carrying more than 620,000 passengers, 230,000 cars and 73,000 commercial vehicles.”
Confusion from Aratere’s bridge team regarding onboard steering systems and the engagement of the vessel’s autopilot system were mentioned in the latest TAIC report on grounding.
