Dampier Port issued a Marine Notice D182025 advising mariners that an increased number of jellyfish has been observed waters in and around the Port of Dampier. Two potential risks from the presence of jellyfish have been reported:
- Seawater strainer blockage causing issues related to cooling, resulting in engine slow down and shutdowns
- Hazards of the jellyfish stingers coming in contact with the exposed skin of the crew.This hazard has been reported in two instances:
- Crew cleaning seawater strainers to remove the jellyfish
- Crew handling mooring rope after the rope has been in the water
Vessels are advised to carry out a risk assessment and include below risk mitigation:
- Inspect and clear their seawater strainers before commencing inbound and outbound passage.
- Monitor cooling temperature and pressure whilst transiting in port waters and have engine crew on standby to respond without delay.
- Appropriate PPE to be worn by crew clearing the filters and any deck crew handling the mooring ropes to prevent any contact with the jellyfish