Investigation Report
Safety warning after failure of fixed high expansion foam system to extinguish a fire
Safety warning after failure of fixed high expansion foam system to extinguish a fire
- MAIB
- Investigation Report
- Emergency ResponseHot Work and Fire
- CorrosionFireMechanical failure
- Inspection and maintenance
- Process pipework and pipelines
- Fire protectionFunctional testing
- Marine industry
- Vessel
Summary
This bulletin examines the failure of Oscar Wilde’s fixed high-expansion foam system during a machinery-space fire. Blocked nozzles prevented foam production, while corroded distribution piping and potential liquid traps were identified. Shipowners are urged to inspect nozzles and susceptible piping urgently, fitting drains where appropriate.
Classifications: Corrosion; corrosion damage.
Classifications: Fire; fire safety.
Classifications: Mechanical failure; equipment failure.
Classifications: Inspection and maintenance; asset inspection; equipment maintenance.
Classifications: Process pipework and pipelines; process piping.
Classifications: Fire protection; fire suppression; fire detection.
Classifications: Functional testing; function test.
Classifications: Marine industry; shipping industry; maritime sector.
Classifications: Vessel; aboard ship; onboard vessel.
Summary
Urgent recommendation to owners of ships fitted with high expansion foam systems utilising the atmosphere from within a protected space.
Themes: emergency response, hot work and fire.