Damage by Understatement

 

An "understatement" has no place in an incident report.

 

How many times have you heard it, "That's an understatement!"?

 

An understatement is defined as the presentation of something being smaller or less important than it really is.

 

During World War I the British Navy engaged the German fleet at the Battle of Jutland on May 31, 1916. The British fleet was commanded by Admiral Sir David Beatty.

 

Admiral Beatty aggressively positioned his battle cruisers to engage with the German ships but was drawn into a trap.  During the fight, two of the Admirals' battle cruisers, the HMS Indefatigable and the HMS Queen Mary, exploded and quickly sank.  

 

The Admiral commented soon afterwards with the famous understatement, "There seems to be something wrong with our bloody ships today". 

 

In the end, the British lost three battle cruisers, three armored cruisers, eight destroyers, along with the lives of 6,094 sailors. 

 

Incident reports.

 

Incident reporting is the last place we want to find an understatement.   A thorough and well thought out incident report gives an accurate account of what happened without skimping on the uncomfortable details or leaving out important facts.  No one wants to report on damage they may have caused and human nature leads us to understate the reality of the matter.

 

Here is an example of an understatement from a recent Vessel Incident Report

 

Description of how incident occurred:

CAME OUT OF LOCKS INTO RIVER WENT TO MAKE TURN NOT (north) BOUND AND STEERING DIDNT RESPOND

 

Description of damage:

BUSTED ALL WIRES ON BARGES, AND CAUSED DAMAGE PILING ON ....................DOCK

 

In this report there is not much to go by here for:

• the Port Captain who has to determine what response action is needed.
• the Safety Department that may need to bring in a marine surveyor, has to deal with the dock owner and may need to work with the USCG.
• the Repair Department that has to fix any damages to Higman equipment.
• the Scheduling Group that has to contact the customer to explain the what happened and to work out contingencies.

In this case the lead barge was heavily damaged requiring a dry dock.  The damaged piling sighted was much more than a simple push-over and will require extensive repair with expensive dock delays.

 

Because of the understatement of damage, the USCG was not informed in a timely manner, exposing the company to possible fines.   

 

 

Write up an accurate and descriptive Incident Report.

 

Sergeant Joe Friday, the fictional LA detective in the 1950's radio show "Dragnet" is credited for saying, "Just the facts, Ma'am."  A good incident report documents the facts known at the time to the writer.

 

Start with the Incident Report form.

 

Unless the incident is simple and to the point, you may want to print out a blank incident report form to guide you through the process. If possible, use a word processor program to write up any statements.   It will look neater, and you'll be able to use spell check.  

(hint: when I write these articles, I dictate using the "notepad" function on my smart phone.  I then email to myself and then cut/paste into the article.  The spell check is done in "notepad")

 

Start the report as soon as possible after completing your initial investigation.  You may not have all the facts yet, but the report can be supplement later. 

 

Write the report using a first person narrative.   Always tell the truth.  Give accurate and precise information; don't speculate or give an opinion. Use short, to-the-point, fact-oriented sentences that don't leave room for interpretation.

  

Remember only to write up the what, when and where.

  

Damage details need to be accurate.

 

As much as possible, determine the scope of the damage.  It is amazing how often damage is understated.  If a dent in the side shell is six feet long and four inches deep, report it as so. 

 

Underestimating damage does not fix the problem and it may have implications in the future repair scheduling process.

 

Vessel Incident Reporting addition to SMS outlined.

 

In the next few weeks, a new vessel incident reporting procedure will be added to the SMS system.  Here is an outline of what is expected to be added:

 

Incident Handling:

1. Captain of vessel is to provide photo of any damage or areas struck by tow within 6 hours or if at night upon first clear daylight.
2. Safety Department and the Port Captain will review video.
3. Safety Department with the Port Captain will decide if the incident requires a full investigation and/or a marine surveyor.
4. Marine Surveyors are to always inspect the vessels as well as the structure when called out for surveys.
5. If damage to vessel, then the vessel's Barge Superintendent (if a barge) and/or assigned Mechanic will proceed to the vessel to investigate (non surveyor) and report.
6. If the damage warrants a marine surveyor or appears to require a full investigation, the Port Captain will attend at the minimum. 

Always consult with your Port Captain when doing an incident report.  

 

Yes, an incident may happen in your operation.  At that point, you cannot change the facts so get them right on the report. 

 

Safety & Vetting 

 

This newest section of the Training Newsletter will contain a tip or tidbit of information from your friends in Safety & Vetting -- Kyle, John, Ben, Andy, Cisco and Amy.

 

 

 

SIRE Inspection Tip:

 

We are all aware of the new electronic Safety Management System (SMS) that we published officially in April.  There are a few questions on a SIRE inspection surrounding the Safety Management System and we want to be sure you understand exactly what the inspectors are looking for.  The question states: Does the master review the "Safety Management System" and report to the operator on any deficiencies?  We have seen inspection reports return with an answer by the Wheelman that the review is part of the company Captain's Meetings.  This is an accurate answer, but the inspector is looking for some documentation of this. 

 

Here's the new process with the electronic SMS:  All vessel crew members are required to review the SMS and are tested to ensure competency via CBT courses.  A record of this review and training is maintained electronically in the CBT database and is available for viewing.

 

I know you are all working diligently to complete your first three SMS CBT courses.  Remember, once the entire crew has completed these courses, you can discard the paper copies currently on board (except the Vessel Response Plan which is not electronic yet but should be in the next month or so).

Good ideas need to be shared, refined and become "Best Practices". A "Best Practice" is defined as a method or technique which shows results superior to those achieved with other means, and that is used as a benchmark.  In addition, a "Best Practice" can evolve to become better as improvements are discovered.

  

When planning your vacations for spring please consider the date for the 2015 Wheelmen Seminars.  

 

The Seminars are scheduled for:

 

March 18-18

March 30-31

April 8-9

 

Invitations and updated information will follow. 

Houston MARSEC Drill

 

Tomorrow, June 12, 2014, the USCG- Houston/Galveston Sector will be conducting a MARSEC drill with all port partners. This drill will utilize the alert warning system.  If your tow is in the Houston/Galveston Sector, you may be asked to participate.

 

 

Mobile Ship Channel/ICW Rerouting

 

As of June 11, 2014 through July 25, the GIWW will be closed at the intersections of the GIWW and the Mobile Ship Channel due to the Exxon Mobil's pipeline work. The Intracoastal will be closed from MM 142 EHL, (light 147) to MM 129.5 EHL (Green Can Buoy "9").

 

To ensure safe tow passage all traffic will be routed up through the flats and enter or cross the Mobile Ship Channel at lights 33 and 34. See the chart below. This is the normal route that Higman tows take when you are headed North through Mobile Bay. Traffic through this area may be higher than usual since east/westbound vessels will be using this route as well.

 

Exxon Mobil will provide 24/7 presence of assist vessels to physically re-direct traffic at the east and west ends of where the re-route begins. A third vessel will also be on scene where their pipe laying barge is actively working (amber colored circle on the chart below).

 

The Coast Guard intends to mark shoals discovered on this temporary route during ongoing survey. Any changes and additional information will be reflected in the CG Sector Mobile MSSB. Ensure you check the MSSB when preparing a voyage that will transit this area!

 

USCG Rules of the Road Questions

 

 

INLAND ONLY.....Your vessel is proceeding down a channel, and can safely navigate only within the channel. Another vessel is crossing your bow from port to starboard, and you are in doubt as to her intentions. Which statement is TRUE?

 

a)  The sounding of the danger signal is optional.

 

b)  The sounding of the danger signal is mandatory.

 

c)  You should sound two short blasts.

 

d)  You should sound one prolonged and two short blasts

 

 

INLAND ONLY..... At night, a barge moored in a slip used primarily for mooring purposes shall __________.

  

a)  show a flashing yellow light at each corner

  

b)  show a white light at each corner

  

c)  show a red light at the bow and stern

  

d)  not be required to be lighted

 

 

INLAND ONLY..... You have made your vessel up to a tow and are moving from a pier out into the main channel. Your engines are turning ahead. What whistle signal should you sound?

 

a)  One prolonged and two short blasts

 

b)  Three long blasts

 

c)  One prolonged blast

 

d)  Five or more short rapid blasts

 

 

BOTH INTERNATIONAL & INLAND.....What is used to show the presence of a partly submerged object being towed?

 

a)  A diamond shape on the towed object

 

b)  An all-round light at each end of the towed object

 

c)  A searchlight from the towing vessel in the direction of the tow

 

 

 

BOTH INTERNATIONAL & INLAND..... Underway at night you see the red sidelight of a vessel well off your port bow. Which statement is TRUE?

 

a)  You are required to alter course to the right.

 

b)  You must stop engines.

 

c)  You are on a collision course with the other vessel.

 

d)  You may maintain course and speed.

 

 

Atlantic Hurricane Season - June 1 to November 30

 

 

 

  

Use the storm checklist below to be sure your vessel is ready.  At your boat's next safety meeting discuss these points and any other ways to prepare for the potential dangers of hurricanes coming your way.

 

 

 

 

Preparation on the Vessel

 

• Secure and clear all nonessential and loose gear.
• Remove all products from drip pans, etc. that can be exposed to weather.
• Mooring lines doubled up with due consideration given to the effects of predicted storm surge.
• Ensure all personnel are prepared and equipped to safely maintain the vessel during severe weather.
• Wear personal flotation devices when outside.
• Tend mooring lines and have spare lines readily available.
• Have fire fighting equipment ready and in good working order for immediate use.
• Ensure all side ports, hatches, portholes and other openings are closed and secured.
• Maintain a continuous radio watch and monitor severe weather activity.
• Prior to predicted landfall, plan with the Scheduling Dept. possible safe tie-up locations.
• Try to maintain contact with office personnel before, during and after the storm.
• Top off with fuel and water. Get permission from Scheduling before doing so.
• After storm passes be vigilant for debris, missing aids, high water and stronger currents.
• Monitor Coast Guard radio broadcasts.

 

Preparation at Home

 

Discuss plans with family members and neighbors.  

Here are four steps for preparation at home:

• Make a Plan
• Make a Kit
• Stay Informed
• Know Your Neighbors

    

 

Plan for you family in an emergency. Consider how to communicate and how to leave messages if you can't reach people.  If a loved one has special needs, there must be preparation ahead of time. 

 

Keep a list of important phone numbers by the phone and in your emergency kit. If family members are unable to communicate, designate meeting places. Pick one near your home for emergencies that happen at home, and another outside the area for an evacuation meeting location.  If you live in a hurricane evacuation zone, plan ahead for what needs to be on hand to be readily packed in the car.

 

Assemble an emergency kit.  Include food and water for 5-7 days at home.  Smaller kits can be made for work or vehicles. The following is an example list.  Review this list for your own family needs so you don't omit anything necessary.

 

Basic Supplies

• Water (Recommended one gallon/person/day for drinking and sanitation. Clean & fill bath tubs and sinks.)
• Non-perishable food
• Battery-powered. solar or hand-crank radio and tone-alert weather radio.  Extra batteries.
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• First Aid kit
• Rain gear
• Whistle to signal for help
• Filter mask or cotton t-shirt to help filter air
• Toilet paper, moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties for personal sanitation
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Manual can opener
• Plastic sheeting and duct tape
• Prescription medications, infant formula, and diapers
• Paper towels, disposable cups, plates, and utensils
• Cash or traveler's checks, change
• Fire extinguisher
• Matches in a waterproof container
• Disinfectant
• Copies of important family documents in a waterproof container (see lists below)
• Books, board games, and other non-electronic entertainment
• Pet food and one gallon of water per day per pet

 

 

Personal Papers

• Social Security numbers
• Important addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses
• Birth certificates or adoption papers
• Marriage certificate
• Citizenship documents, naturalization papers, and passports
• Drivers licenses and state IDs
• Vaccination records, medication lists, and blood types
• Court orders relating to divorce, child support, custody, alimony, or property division

Financial Information

• Wills (Last Will and Testament or Living Wills)
• Powers of attorney documentation
• Insurance policies, including policy numbers, coverage limits, and insurance agent contact information
• Bank accounts with account numbers and bank contact information
• Credit card account numbers with card company contact information
• Real estate documents (leases, deeds, mortgages, promissory notes, and closing papers)
• Vehicle titles
• Bonds, stock certificates, sales contracts, and financial agreements

Be sure to monitor information from your local government and media. If the Emergency Alert System is activated, tune to your local AM or FM station for broadcast messages and updates.

 

Click here for more information and preparation details provided by the Federal Government for hurricanes and other natural disasters:   

First Texas Navy Schooner BRUTUS.

 

A small schooner, similar to the BRUTUS.

  

In our April 30, 2014 issue of the Higman Training Newsletter, we discussed the First Texas Navy which was formed in 1836 after Texas proclaimed its independence from Mexico.  One of the four vessels that made up the Texas Navy was the schooner BRUTUS.  The BRUTUS was 90 ft long and displaced 160 tons.  She carried a crew of 40.

 

The Texan schooner BRUTUS was one of the four ships of the First Texas Navy (1836-1838) that wreaked havoc on towns along the coast of Mexico, blockaded Mexican ports, and captured ships bound for Mexico with goods and munitions of war during the Texas Revolution.

 

In August 1837, the BRUTUS ran aground on a sandbar while attempting to return to sea to assist another Texas Navy schooner, INVINCIBLE.  The INVINCIBLE was engaged in battle with two Mexican warships that had been pursuing the Texas Navy ships across the Gulf of Mexico.  The BRUTUS was never refloated and was destroyed by a hurricane that hit Galveston in October 1837.

 

The BRUTUS was the last surviving ship of the First Texas Navy.

© 2014 HIGMAN MARINE SERVICES, Inc.