The BIMCO Tanker Safety Network recently examined the fire hazards in the engine room. This meeting aimed to exchange experiences and discuss maintenance techniques, technology, and organizational support to reduce fire hazards. During this event, members reviewed three case studies and shared their experiences in fire prevention.
Consequences of Fire in the Engine Room
This presentation emphasized the human, operational, and financial consequences of engine room fires. An analysis conducted by Gard on fire and explosion claims from 2017 to 2024 shows that nearly 60 percent of these incidents originate from the engine room. This statistic clearly highlights the importance of focusing on safety in this part of the vessels.
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Case Studies and Challenges
Three fire incidents were presented as learning patterns:
- Failed Fuel Connection: A pressure connection with an inappropriate thread caused fuel to spray onto a turbocharger with unstable insulation. This incident highlighted the importance of using suitable parts and effective protection for hot surfaces.
- Hydraulic Oil Leak: An oil leak was identified several hours before the fire, but repairs were postponed until the vessel reached the anchorage. This incident underscores the need for timely assessment of warning signs and making appropriate decisions.
- Electrical Issue in the Start Panel: An inspection following an auxiliary fan alarm revealed a burned contactor and damage to related electrical components. This issue well illustrates contact wear, loose connections, and inspection and maintenance weaknesses.
This presentation also emphasized weaknesses in maintenance and the need to pay attention to pipe support, tightening procedures, filter covers, and flexible hoses. Restoring insulation and protective arrangements after maintenance is an essential part of completing work.
Prevention Strategies and Risk Response
Network members discussed the challenges of inspecting numerous electrical components on vessels. Common approaches included identifying critical equipment and incorporating inspections and servicing of contactors into the planned maintenance system. Questions were also raised about how to identify other hazards during installation.
Alongside these technical measures, members pointed out broader issues such as the availability of suitable spare parts, the time required for repairs, and support for less experienced engineers. Discussions also arose regarding how expectations about reaching the next port might influence decision-making for delaying maintenance.
Early detection and effective response were also topics explored in this meeting. The use of thermal imaging as a means to identify hot surfaces and insulation gaps that may be overlooked in visual inspections was discussed. Additionally, the potential of AI-assisted cameras and other monitoring technologies for providing early warnings was examined.
Finally, members continued discussions about their experiences with fires related to incinerators, dryers, and electrical equipment in accommodation spaces. Suggestions were made to investigate fires caused by energy banks and lithium-ion batteries as well.
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