Investigation Report
Fire and sinking of passenger transfer catamaran ECC Topaz during engine trials
Fire and sinking of passenger transfer catamaran ECC Topaz during engine trials
- MAIB
- Investigation Report
- Hot Work and FireMachinery and Equipment
- FireVessel flooding and foundering
- Inspection and maintenanceMarine operations
- Pumps
- Evacuation, escape and rescueFire protectionManagement of changePreventive maintenance
- Marine industryOffshore wind
- Marine watersVessel
Summary
Investigation of the fire and subsequent sinking of ECC Topaz near Lowestoft. It examines two plausible heater-exhaust ignition mechanisms, unauthorised modifications, temperature-rating discrepancies and absent heater-space smoke detection. The report discusses maintenance shortcomings, crew abandonment and helicopter rescue, with recommendations addressing exhaust specifications and manufacturer approval of modifications.
Classifications: Fire; fire safety.
Classifications: Vessel flooding and foundering; water ingress.
Classifications: Inspection and maintenance; asset inspection; equipment maintenance.
Classifications: Marine operations; maritime operations.
Classifications: Pumps.
Classifications: Evacuation, escape and rescue; EER; escape and rescue.
Classifications: Fire protection; fire suppression; fire detection.
Classifications: Management of change; MOC; change management.
Classifications: Preventive maintenance; preventative maintenance; planned maintenance.
Classifications: Marine industry; shipping industry; maritime sector.
Classifications: Offshore wind; offshore wind energy.
Classifications: Marine waters.
Classifications: Vessel; aboard ship; onboard vessel.
Themes: hot work and fire, machinery and equipment.