EVALUASI PENERAPAN PROSEDUR KESELAMATAN KERJA DALAM OPERASI STATIC TOW KAPAL TUG BOAT UNTUK MENUNJANG KELANCARAN OPERASIONAL

Abstract

This research evaluates the implementation of safety work procedures in static tow operations of tug boats, focusing on two main issues: the absence of contingency proceduresfor sudden weather changes and weak socialization of safety procedures. The study is based on an incident on December 10, 2024, in Jizan offshore, Saudi Arabia, where sudden weather changes forced the suspension of static tow operations for 45 minutes, caused additional fuel consumption of 500 liters, and resulted in two near-miss incidents. Using a descriptive qualitative method with a case study approach, data were collected through participatory observation, in-depth interviews, and document review. The findings reveal that safety procedures on TUG Zamil 70 only cover normal operational conditions without specific guidelines for sudden weather changes, including suspension criteria, towing wire securing methods, evacuation steps, and emergency communication protocols. Moreover, safety socialization is ineffective due to 15-minute one-way briefings without interactive discussion or practical simulations, resulting in only 2 out of 7 crew members being able to explain the procedures completely. Procedure documents use overly formal language and technical terms that are difficult for crew members with diverse educational backgrounds to understand, with no refresher training or drills ever conducted for emergency situations. This research recommends developing clear contingency procedures for sudden weather changes, improving interactive and regular procedure socialization with practical simulations, installing an integrated real-time weather early warning system, revising procedure documents using simple language with illustrations or flow diagrams, and implementing strict sanctions for safety violations. Companies should also enhance safety supervision by appointing dedicated officers, mandating regular drills and simulations, and conducting periodic procedure evaluation and updates based on incident and near-miss experiences to ensure procedures remain relevant and support operational efficiency of tug boats.