Reviews & Ratings for the Star

Svitzer has taken the precautionary step of removing two out of its nine Newcastle-based tugs from active service following the discovery of asbestos in one of their Chinese-manufactured vessels. The Maritime Union of Australia (MUA) initially raised concerns regarding the potential asbestos content, stressing that both tugs had previously received certifications declaring them free of asbestos prior to their arrival in Australia. The asbestos was specifically found in the electrical wiring of the 'Svitzer Warunda', prompting the MUA to initiate a closer inspection of Svitzer's fleet in other Australian harbors. Currently, inspections are underway on its sister vessel, the 'Svitzer Wareggo'. Alarmingly, discrepancies in the asbestos-free certification were noted when it was revealed that one tug was reported to have been inspected in Brisbane on a date when union representatives confirmed it was actually located in Bowen. An electrician working on the 'Svitzer Warunda' identified potential asbestos in the wiring he was handling, which was subsequently validated through testing. As a result, Svitzer is replacing all wiring in the tug and conducting evaluations on the sister vessel to determine whether similar actions are necessary. The company has consistently kept relevant health authorities and regulatory bodies informed of the situation and has committed to covering health assessments for any personnel who have worked on either tug.