Control
Fire Protection
Detection, suppression and protective arrangements against fire.
Newest 100 Documents
All 501 in search- 202621 Jul
Bio-Lab Inc. Conyers Fire and Chemical Release
Investigation of the Conyers chemical-storage warehouse fire and release examines sprinkler corrosion, water-triggered decomposition and emergency response. It identifies sprinkler component failure as the most likely initiating water source, analyses storage and ventilation shortcomings, and recommends corporate safeguards and broader reactive-hazard coverage. Supporting work includes AcciMap analysis and chemical testing.
- 202617 Mar
Battery power bank explodes in cabin
A power bank exploded during overnight charging in a vessel cabin. Its owner extinguished the fire with a wet towel, with minor damage to cabin fittings and furniture reported. The flash highlights restrictions on unattended charging and recommends certified charging equipment from reputable suppliers.
- 2026Mar
Production PINCs
Numbered regulatory inspection questions address production safety systems, well barriers and casing-pressure diagnostics. Checks cover shutdown valve operation, gas and fire detection calibration, firewater pumps, pressure relief and protective devices on process equipment. Conditional approval requirements and specified testing intervals support inspection of production facilities and subsea components.
- 202613 Feb
Small engine room fire – flammable object ignited
A small flammable foreign object ignited during post-drydock engine load testing. The crew stopped the engine, isolated fuel and extinguished the fire; nobody was injured. The flash identifies poor housekeeping and absent post-maintenance checks, emphasising machinery-space cleanliness, checks before load testing and regular emergency drills.
- 202622 Jan
Mechanic got burns due to fire in portable generator
A marine mechanic sustained minor right-arm burns after spilled petrol ignited during portable-generator refuelling at a dock workshop. Dragging the generator produced a friction spark. The flash identifies missing rubber bushings, absent procedures and risk assessment, inadequate maintenance and housekeeping, and difficult access to fire extinguishers.
- 202612 Jan
NTSB: Engine room fire – put things back properly after maintenance
An IMCA flash summarises a fatal engine-room fire aboard a dredging vessel. NTSB attributed the probable cause to lubricating oil spraying from a generator and igniting off a nearby running engine after a plug was not reinstated. Lessons emphasise post-maintenance inspection, correct reassembly and local test starts where appropriate and practical.
- 20254 Dec
Fire hazard: missing splash tapes on fuel hose connections
This safety flash describes missing splash tapes on engine fuel hose connections in newly delivered and older vessels. It explains their role in preventing fuel spray reaching hot surfaces, identifies commissioning omissions and failures to reinstall tapes after maintenance, and stresses acceptance checks and restoration of safety details.
- 20254 Dec
Fire in the engine room – fuel spray fire
Fuel sprayed onto hot surfaces of a starboard main engine after maintenance left return-pipe bolts missing and protective barriers absent. Crew extinguished the fire without injuries or pollution, but water mist failed and shutdown actions were delayed. Lessons emphasise post-maintenance checks, splash protection and familiarity with emergency equipment.
- 202517 Nov
Broken equipment repaired or replaced
Five cases describe defects affecting a dock firefighting pump, immersion suit zip, emergency exit handle, ventilation flap seals and lifejacket storage box hinges. Repairs, replacement and additional inspection arrangements restored readiness. The flash highlights potentially serious cumulative consequences of minor defects and suggests considering regular checks of safety equipment details.
- 20257 Nov
Smoke in the battery room
A vessel alongside experienced smoke from overheated nickel-cadmium batteries supplying a DP-system UPS. Crews isolated circuits and removed batteries for cooling, without injury or escalation. The flash examines uncertain causes, restricted cabinet access and incomplete records, highlighting battery inventories, detection, emergency training and installation improvements.
- 20252 Oct
USCG: Lithium-Ion battery system installations
Summarises USCG advice following a lithium-ion battery bank fire on a passenger vessel caused by overheated, loosely crimped lugs. Discusses thermal runaway, toxic off-gases and suppression difficulties, alongside engineering review, battery management, condition inspections, maintenance, crew competence and fire drills. No injuries and minimal vessel damage were reported.
- 202518 Sep
Auxiliary engine room fire on board the ro-ro cargo ship Finnmaster
Investigation of Finnmaster’s auxiliary engine room fire during departure from Hull. Partial fuel injection pump coupling failure and leaking hot exhaust preceded fuel hose failure and ignition. The report examines defective emergency power, incomplete carbon dioxide suppression, maintenance and supplier assurance, system testing and crew response. No injuries were reported.
- 2025Jul
Hydrocarbon Active Fire Protection
An inspection guide for offshore hydrocarbon fire protection, setting out regulatory expectations, success criteria and dutyholder scoring. It examines firewater pumps, ring mains, deluge coverage and chemical dosing, with emphasis on corrosion, marine growth, system availability, as-found testing and investigation of recurring blockages.
- 202520 Jun
BSEE Safety Alert 503 - Personnel Burned by Fire due to Improper Venting of Gas Starters on Engines
BSEE describes two flash fires during attempts to start gas engines driving pipeline pumps. Improperly secured or absent starter exhaust piping allowed gas to accumulate before backfires ignited it, burning workers. Recommendations address safe exhaust routing, component checks, training, startup and maintenance procedures, gas detectors and consideration of temporary fire watches.
- 2025Apr
CHIRP Superyacht FEEDBACK 9 (April 2025)
This superyacht incident digest examines a post-dry-dock fire, unsuitable crew accommodation during repairs, drug use, inadequate provision for working aloft, a falling crane hook, fatigued anchoring and unrecognised enclosed spaces. Commentary addresses safety culture, equipment readiness, familiarisation, design feedback and atmospheric testing.
- 20256 Feb
MAIB: Vessel cook injured by spillage of burning cooking oil
A cook aboard an offshore support vessel suffered severe burns when wet chemical suppression displaced burning oil from a shallow-sided gyro pan. A faulty thermostat and unsuitable use for deep-frying featured in the incident. Lessons address hazardous work-arounds, regular maintenance, testing overheated appliances and following manufacturers’ guidance.
- 20256 Feb
Safety warning issued following Egyptian liveaboard dive boat accidents in the Red Sea resulting in the loss of life
This MAIB bulletin examines three Egyptian liveaboard dive boat casualties in the Red Sea. It identifies inadequate stability, deficient lifesaving and fire protection arrangements, obstructed escape provisions and poor briefings and crew training. Customers are advised to use recognised vendors offering safety assurance and request thorough onboard briefings before departure.
- 2025
CHIRP Maritime FEEDBACK 78 (Spring 2025)
This maritime digest examines pilot-ladder deficiencies, a caustic eye injury, unacceptable accommodation, charcoal cargo fire, corroded walkways, yacht fire, disabled carbon dioxide firefighting and rescue-craft capsize. Commentary emphasises time for post-maintenance checks, equipment handovers, crew training and risk assessment, alongside protective equipment and seafarers’ rights.
- 2025
CHIRP Maritime FEEDBACK 79 (Summer 2025)
Six confidential maritime reports examine heavy-weather fatalities, navigational audit findings, lifting entanglement, a pilot boarding fall, obstructed firefighting equipment and exposure to residual acid fumes. Commentary connects operational shortcomings with communication, supervision and safety culture, with separate lessons for seafarers, ship managers and regulators.
- 202417 Dec
NTSB: diesel generator engine failure
An offshore supply vessel suffered diesel generator failure and an engine-room fire during post-maintenance sea trials. An incorrectly sized replacement main bearing reduced lubrication pressure to adjacent connecting rod bearings. Effective crew firefighting limited the spread. The flash stresses identifying and documenting removed component part numbers to support correct replacement selection.
- 202412 Dec
Engine room fire on board ro-ro passenger ferry Stena Europe
Investigation of Stena Europe’s engine room fire while approaching Fishguard. Pressurised fuel escaped from a flange joint and ignited on exposed exhaust surfaces. The report examines recurring leaks, incomplete flange modifications, deficient insulation, maintenance and reporting weaknesses, firefighting response, and thermal imaging for detecting hazardous hot spots.
- 202411 Nov
NTSB: Fire on vessel – escaped exhaust gases
This safety flash describes a towing-vessel fire on the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway. The NTSB suggested that undetected muffler cracks let hot exhaust gases ignite wooden accommodation structures, with combustible furnishings contributing to damage. The crew escaped safely, but the vessel was destroyed. Inspection of welds and potential weak points is suggested.
- 202414 Oct
Fire in engine room
A vessel engine-room fire was most likely caused by a fuel leak following pipe misalignment during reassembly. Blocked detection tubing and drains, unavailable water-mist suppression and delayed ventilation shutdown contributed to escalation. The flash highlights correct assembly, regular inspections, fire drills and checks of emergency procedures.
- 202414 Oct
Inappropriate automatic activation of fixed fire-fighting system
A harbour tug’s fixed engine-room firefighting system discharged all its gas after two blackouts within 24 hours. Activation was linked to a battery-voltage rise following a pilot-cylinder solenoid valve malfunction. Nobody was harmed. Lessons address electrical supply adequacy, emergency-system functionality and blackout drill protocols.
- 202414 Oct
MSF: Safety pins left in fire suppression system – high potential near miss
A vessel inspection after dry docking found safety pins still fitted to all engine-room CO2 suppression bottles, preventing remote activation in a potential fire. Third-party testing and subsequent checks had missed their removal. The flash recommends permit-to-work coverage, deck-officer verification, procedural familiarity and checks for immediate equipment readiness.
- 202414 Oct
Urgent inspection of pressurised carbon dioxide fire fighting systems
A specialist third-party inspection of a vessel’s carbon dioxide fire suppression system found Chinese-manufactured coins inserted in 21 of 24 main 45 kg cylinders. The coins blanketed high-pressure hoses, potentially impairing suppression effectiveness. The flash calls for immediate inspection of hose connections and rectification of anomalies.
- 202422 May
Engine failure and subsequent engine room fire
A diesel generator failed catastrophically aboard an offshore-working vessel, ejecting components and starting an engine-room fire. Nobody was harmed. The flash reviews effective Hi-Fog suppression, protective equipment and emergency leadership, and recommends procedural familiarity and revised response communications. It also suggests thermal imaging support and fire-station booklets.
- 202422 May
US BSEE: Welding and burning hazards
This flash summarises BSEE inspection findings on welding and burning hazards at Gulf of Mexico production and well-operation sites. It describes potential fires, including suspected slag penetration beneath living quarters, and highlights flammable materials, inadequate training and conflicting fire-watch duties. Recommendations address protective barriers, competence, supervision and pre-job discussions.
- 2024May
CHIRP Superyacht FEEDBACK 6 (Summer 2024)
This superyacht incident digest examines watertight door failures, a starting battery explosion, a galley fire, unprotected window cleaning and steering loss. Commentary addresses alarm visibility, towing checks, battery maintenance, heat lamp safeguards, crew numbers and the independence of the designated person ashore.
- 20244 Apr
BSEE Risk Based Inspection Identifies Welding and Burning Hazards
BSEE summarises targeted inspections of Gulf of Mexico production and well-operation facilities that identified welding and burning hazards. Findings include damaged or poorly positioned fire barriers, nearby flammables, deficient planning and training, and conflicting fire-watch duties. Operators and contractors are encouraged to consider improvements to protection, competence, procedures and supervision.
- 20244 Apr
Safety Alert - BSEE Risk Based Inspection Identifies Welding and Burning Hazards
BSEE reports targeted inspections of 22 Gulf of Mexico production and well-operation sites, identifying damaged or misplaced fire barriers, hot work near hydrocarbons, deficient planning and inconsistent training. The alert describes a living-quarters fire and recommends considering improved barrier inspection, task-specific planning, competence assurance, supervision and fire-watch arrangements.
- 202422 Jan
UK MAIB: Deep fat fryer fire
A shipboard galley fire followed restoration of power to two deep fat fryers drained for cleaning. Overheated elements ignited fat-saturated food residues before thermal protection disconnected power. Crew extinguished the fire without damage or injury. Lessons address lockout/tagout, equipment readiness, electrical supply checks and practised emergency response.
- 2024
CHIRP Maritime FEEDBACK 75 (Summer 2024)
Confidential maritime reports examine commercial pressure over damaged anchors, laundry and cargo fires, machinery and mooring hand injuries, inadequate provisions and a grounding. Commentary addresses escalation of concerns, bridge coordination, laundry practices, dangerous-goods stowage, machinery isolation and guarding, and keeping hands clear during mooring.
- 20237 Dec
Accidental discharge of condensed aerosol fire-extinguishing system on beam trawler Resurgam with loss of 1 life
Investigation of a fatal accidental aerosol fire-extinguishing system discharge during installation aboard Resurgam in Newlyn harbour. It examines electrical commissioning, generator placement, toxic combustion products and impaired escape. Laboratory trials inform analysis of inhalation hazards, while findings address installer competence, regulatory approval, contractor coordination and rescue arrangements.
- 20236 Dec
NTSB: Lithium-ion battery fire destroys vessel bridge
This safety flash summarises an NTSB investigation into a tanker bridge fire while alongside. Probable cause was thermal runaway in a handheld radio’s lithium-ion battery. It describes prompt crew firefighting, absent bridge fire detection, extensive equipment damage and precautions concerning battery care, charging, sourcing and fire containment.
- 202330 Oct
Fire-fighting equipment in poor condition
A vessel audit identified several 50 kg wheeled dry powder extinguishers with low pressure and extensive corrosion, despite monthly inspections. The flash highlights gaps in crew understanding of inspection quality and calls for defective equipment to be quarantined, repairs or replacements arranged, regular servicing and crew awareness sessions.
- 202326 Oct
Safety Alert 471 - Pipe Bond Failure on Firefighting System Investigated and Repaired
A firewater pipe separated from its flange, displacing another pipe and prompting a production halt. The affected main was isolated and repaired before production resumed. Bond failure was identified as a potential cause. BSEE recommends considering maintenance review, personnel competence measures, connection testing where possible and leak checks during routine system tests.
- 202316 Oct
Fire in the laundry room
An industrial tumble dryer fire was extinguished while personnel were mustering. The flash identifies maintenance changes and absent laundry smoke detection as causes, and describes possible particulate transport through heating elements. Actions address recognised equipment standards, compatible spare parts and review of fire and smoke detection.
- 202324 Jul
Fire in diesel generator following tests
A vessel’s diesel generator caught fire during operational-speed testing after alternator bearing replacement in port. A misaligned bearing cover caused shaft friction and sparking; insufficient contractor supervision was considered the root cause. The flash emphasises thorough supervision and post-maintenance testing beyond idling speed.
- 20236 Jul
Intercontinental Terminals Company (ITC) Tank Fire
Investigation of the March 2019 tank-farm fire at ITC’s Deer Park terminal, following a circulation-pump seal failure and butane-enriched naphtha release. The report examines pump maintenance, gas detection, emergency isolation, fire spread, containment failure and regulatory exemptions, with recommendations addressing mechanical integrity, tank-farm design and process safety management.
- 202312 Jun
MAIB: High pressure oil leak causes a fire in the engine room
A vessel’s gearbox temperature probe was expelled by oil at 25 bar, spraying the engine room and igniting oil-soaked exhaust lagging. Crew contained the fires with foam. The flash identifies an insufficiently tightened compression fitting, describes a redesigned probe housing, and emphasises emergency preparedness and closer monitoring after construction or dry docking.
- 202312 Jun
MAIB: Lithium-ion battery fire
This safety flash describes seawater contamination of a lithium-ion battery in subsea equipment stored aboard a vessel. Examination following deployment had identified a potential leak, but further investigation was delayed. A brief explosion occurred without injuries. The flash discusses battery hazards, secure storage of damaged batteries and appropriate extinguishing measures.
- 202324 May
MSF: Disposable vape self-ignition
A disposable vape self-ignited in a crew member’s cabin and continued burning on his mattress after he threw it onto the bed. The flash identifies breaches of company vaping policy and bedding requirements, and calls for policy compliance, closer attention during onboard checks and SOLAS-compliant bedding.
- 202316 May
Fire alarm activation in engine room
A supply vessel experienced a small engine-room fire with no injuries and little damage. Bearing failure produced smoke, while remote CO2 activation failed and the cement compartment appeared to lack a discharge point. The flash highlights unreported sensor inconsistencies, crew practice and accurate documentation of firefighting system limitations.
- 20233 May
Maintenance and control of fire doors
This safety flash describes poorly maintained vessel fire doors, altered closing mechanisms and doors tied open, reducing fire and smoke boundary effectiveness. It calls for automatic closure and complete sealing, including hose ports, adherence to routine maintenance and inspection regimes, and immediate reporting of defects.
- 202324 Apr
Bio Lab Conyers Chemical Release
Investigation of Hurricane Laura damage, chemical decomposition, chlorine release and fire at Bio-Lab’s Louisiana facility. It examines hurricane preparedness, process hazard analysis, structural damage, fire-water reliability and regulatory coverage of reactive chemicals. Appendices analyse separate Conyers decomposition events and provide structural and fire-protection consultant reviews.
- 202324 Apr
Bio-Lab Lake Charles Chemical Fire and Release
Investigation of hurricane-related chemical decomposition, fire and chlorine release at Bio-Lab’s Louisiana manufacturing facility. It examines building resilience, process hazard analysis follow-through, deficient fire protection and emergency equipment readiness, alongside gaps in reactive-hazard regulation. Appendices include structural and fire-code assessments and separate Conyers decomposition incidents.
- 202327 Feb
Compressor fire
A rented diesel-driven screw compressor caught fire aboard a diving support vessel. An electrical short circuit damaged cable insulation; radiant heat compromised an oil scavenger line, releasing oil that ignited. No injuries occurred. The flash discusses maintenance testing gaps, pre-mobilisation checks, equipment assessments, fire suppression and deck positioning.
- 202318 Jan
Small fire following hot work
A small fire followed contractor welding of jumper stands aboard a vessel alongside. A rag over the welded area was found smoking and extinguished with water; nobody was harmed. The flash identifies communication failures, absent joint inspection and no fire watch, and calls for contractor liaison, agreed work acceptance and fire watches.
- 2023
CHIRP Maritime FEEDBACK 70 (Spring 2023)
This maritime incident digest examines single points of safety failure through reports of grounding, steering loss, unsafe fendering, towing difficulties, coercion, obstructed access, collision, maintenance injury, lifting failure and battery fire. Commentary addresses bridge teamwork, workload, isolation, inspection access and emergency arrangements, with practical lessons for vessel crews and managers.
- 2023
CHIRP Superyacht FEEDBACK 2 (Spring 2023)
Six superyacht reports examine authority gradients, guest distractions and safety culture through a deck slip, navigational near misses, tender lifting failure, towing capsize and lithium-ion battery fire. Commentary discusses constructive challenge, safe access, inspection limitations, lifejackets, emergency communications and fire response, contrasting weak practices with effective crew action.
- 2023
MAIB Safety Digest 1/2023
This marine accident digest examines merchant shipping, commercial fishing and recreational boating casualties. Cases address navigation, machinery maintenance, lifting, fires and people overboard. Lessons emphasise clear control indications, practical recovery drills, effective firefighting arrangements and implementation of risk assessments, with reproduced fishing safety flyers discussing personal distress beacons.
- 2023
Standards for offshore helicopter landing areas (Version 9.1, 7 January 2026; publisher status Current)
Sets criteria for offshore helicopter landing areas on installations and vessels, alongside wind-turbine winching arrangements. Covers structural loading, obstacle protection, surface friction testing, lighting, motion monitoring, meteorological reporting, rescue and fire-fighting, fuel-system design and maintenance, and passenger preparation. The January 2026 amendment introduces arrangements for temporary safety-critical equipment unserviceability.
- 202221 Dec
MAIB: Engine room fire flashover
A ferry engine-compartment fire was initially controlled by sealing the space and activating fixed carbon dioxide suppression. After berthing, a fire officer opened the hatch without liaising with the crew, causing rapid reignition and severe damage. Lessons emphasise communication and keeping the compartment sealed until external deckhead temperatures reach ambient levels.
- 202213 Dec
BSEE: Unsafe chemical use and disposal
This safety flash summarises three BSEE incidents involving mixed epoxy paint waste, a smouldering rag and incompatible drain-cleaning chemicals. It describes smoke, fire and gas inhalation, and presents recommendations on chemical handling procedures, safety data sheets, suitable protective gloves and the readiness and compatibility of firefighting equipment.
- 20221 Nov
BSEE: Poor preparation prior to hot work leads to fires
This safety flash summarises three BSEE hot-work fires involving falling sparks, flammable condensate, a leaking gas riser and combustible building surfaces. Recommendations address spark shielding, sustained fire watches, extinguishers, continuous gas monitoring, detector checks, inerting nearby containers, and reviewing hot-work permits and job safety analyses.
- 202211 Oct
Philadelphia Energy Solutions (PES) Refinery Fire and Explosions
Investigates the PES refinery fire and explosions following corrosion-induced rupture of an elbow in its hydrofluoric acid alkylation unit. Examines material composition, inspection coverage, vessel failure, unavailable remote isolation and impaired water-spray mitigation. Contrasts successful rapid acid deinventory with failed safeguards and assesses alternative alkylation technologies and regulatory recommendations.
- 20227 Sep
Unsafe Chemical Use and Disposal
Three incidents illustrate hazards from mixing expired epoxy products, disposing of a rag likely containing flammable thinner, and combining drain cleaner with bleach. BSEE recommends operators consider chemical-specific procedures, suitable protective equipment, firefighting readiness, specialist disposal contracts and lifecycle inventory management to address unsafe chemical use and disposal.
- 202226 Jul
MSF: CO2 system left non-operational after servicing
A vessel’s fixed CO2 firefighting system remained inoperable because survey safety pins were not removed, discovered almost four weeks later. The flash reinforces owner-specific lessons on isolation records, considering permits to work, inspecting contractor reinstatement and circulating safety learning, while noting that incident-specific causes and corrective actions were not supplied.
- 202226 Jul
Poor Preparation Prior to Hot Work Leads to Fires
Three hot-work fires illustrate hazards from flammable vapours at a water skimmer, a leaking gas riser and combustible building surfaces. The alert recommends considering spark shielding, drain sealing, inerting, permits, job safety analysis and continuous gas monitoring, alongside appropriately positioned fire watches and accessible extinguishers.
- 202222 Jul
Flash fire on Oxygen gas quad hose
An oxygen supply change aboard a DSV was followed by a hose burst, explosion and flash fire. The technician closed valves after hearing an unfamiliar regulator noise. Investigation identified missing inlet filtration and accumulated rust particles contributing to ignition. A deck foreman extinguished the fire using dry powder.
- 202231 May
MSF: Corrosion in fire-fighting equipment
A vessel’s monthly inspection identified significant corrosion in its fixed CO2 firefighting system, preventing insertion of the cylinder isolation safety pin for maintenance. Corrective repair restored alignment. The flash stresses regular care and checks in accordance with manufacturers’ recommendations to keep critical firefighting systems ready for activation or isolation.
- 202228 Apr
Two catastrophic engine failures, one resulting in a fire, on board ro-ro passenger ferry Wight Sky
Investigation of Wight Sky’s August and December 2018 engine failures, extended to related fleet failures. It distinguishes lubrication loss from a factory bearing-cap assembly error and examines maintenance records, oil and coolant monitoring, contractor support, delayed declutching and missing engine protection. Effective crew response limited the consequences.
- 202221 Apr
MAIB: Blockage of fixed CO2 fire extinguishing system pilot hoses
Following a cargo ship engine-room fire, blocked pilot hoses were found to have impaired CO2 suppression. Couplings had not been fully bored through, and servicing tests had missed blockages and leaks. The flash highlights manual activation procedures and pneumatic flow testing of complete hose assemblies.
- 20228 Apr
USB power bank (Lithium battery) fire
A lithium-polymer USB power bank caught fire while charging in a vessel cabin. The crew member smothered the flames, disconnected mains power and used water for cooling; no injuries occurred. Findings suggested failure within the power bank. Recommendations address supervised charging and unplugging fully charged units.
- 20221 Apr
American P&I Club: Fire Started from cutting torch work
A cargo-hold fire occurred during oxy-acetylene cutting on a vessel in port. Sparks and molten slag passed through pontoon gaps and ignited plastic cargo covering; slag also burnt through a fire blanket. The flash highlights location-specific hot work permits, vigilant fire watches and effective shielding of nearby cargo.
- 20221 Apr
NTSB: Dangerous engine failure – improper torquing
A ferry engine failed during a post-maintenance sea trial in Puget Sound, ejecting components and causing an engine-room fire. The NTSB identified insufficient tightening of a connecting-rod bolt during overhaul as the probable cause. The flash describes successful fire containment and recommends calibrated torque tools, manufacturer guidance and verification of tightening requirements.
- 2022Apr
Process Safety lessons from a ship fire — Process Safety Beacon, April 2022
This bulletin draws process-industry lessons from the USS Bonhomme Richard fire and a Navy review of earlier ship fires. It highlights improper storage of combustible and hazardous materials, ineffective inspections, deficient hot-work oversight and emergency preparedness, recommending adherence to permit procedures, designated storage and participation in emergency drills.
- 202224 Mar
Blackout Condition Results in Loss of Station Keeping Ability and Activates an Emergency Disconnect from the Well
During drillship well completion, an erroneous watermist-release signal caused the fire and gas system to shut down and block all engines, preventing automatic blackout recovery. The emergency generator operated as designed. The vessel drifted off location, and the driller activated emergency disconnection at the red watch circle limit, securing the well.
- 202210 Mar
Safety warning issued after discovery of blocked fixed CO2 fire extinguishing system pilot hoses
This bulletin examines blocked pilot hoses discovered after Finnmaster’s engine-room fire in Hull. Incompletely bored couplings prevented gas passage, while servicing tests missed blockages and leaks. It describes radiographic examination, revised pneumatic flow testing and recommendations to rectify affected assemblies and improve purchasing and quality control.
- 20221 Mar
Galley and Living Quarter Fires
BSEE summarises reported galley and living-quarter fires and electrical faults involving cooking appliances, dryers and a stateroom receptacle. Cases include damaged ignitor wiring, dryer overheating and liquid-induced short circuits. Operators are encouraged to consider equipment servicing, electrical inspections, unplugging during specified tasks and regular fire-extinguisher inspection and servicing.
- 202210 Feb
NTSB: Engine Failure leads to fire aboard offshore supply vessel
This safety flash summarises an NTSB finding on a generator engine failure aboard an anchored offshore supply vessel. Bearing seizure was identified as the probable cause of rod ejection, oil release and an engine-room fire. Crew removed fuel and oxygen sources, containing the fire without injuries or pollution.
- 202210 Feb
NTSB: Failure to disconnect and secure vehicle batteries led to fire
This safety flash summarises NTSB findings on the June 2020 Höegh Xiamen fire in Jacksonville. An improperly disconnected vehicle battery caused an electrical fault. Ineffective loading oversight, delayed fire detection and delayed carbon dioxide suppression are discussed, alongside actions addressing training, detection-system reactivation and emergency contact availability.
- 202228 Jan
Engine room fire on a ferry
This flash examines a ferry engine-room fire involving thermal oil circulation pump bearing failures and ineffective water-mist suppression. It describes loss of power and propulsion, successful CO2 extinguishment, and lessons on emergency supplies, contingency planning, management of change, thermal imaging and the risk of reignition after re-entry.
- 202210 Jan
American P&I Club: unfamiliarity with semi-portable fire extinguishers
A shipboard generator failure started a bilge fire. Unfamiliarity with a semi-portable foam extinguisher delayed firefighting, allowing fire and smoke to spread. Following evacuation, engine-room isolation and fixed CO2 suppression extinguished the fire. The flash stresses equipment-specific familiarisation and frequent emergency training and drills.
- 202210 Jan
Fire door left wedged open
A vessel visit in port revealed a laundry fire door still propped open after work. The flash identifies missing risk assessment, toolbox discussion and post-job inspection. It recommends assessing disabled safety systems and checking their restoration, while suggesting design-stage consideration of tasks that avoid disabling safeguards.
- 2022
MAIB Safety Digest 2/2022
A collection of marine accident lessons covering merchant ships, fishing vessels and recreational craft. Cases examine groundings, fires, towing and lifting failures, flooding, capsize and people overboard. Reproduced bulletins and flyers discuss blocked CO2 pilot hoses, vessel stability, flotation and distress alerting, alongside navigation, training and equipment checks.
- 20219 Dec
Oil leakage from cylinder head cover
Following planned maintenance, a misaligned main-engine cylinder cover left a 3 mm sealing gap. Vessel list concealed the oil leakage until a turn to port. Engineers repositioned the cover and removed spilled oil, which was beginning to vaporise beneath the exhaust gas line, then established a fire watch.
- 202115 Oct
Portable electrical equipment – serious fire in the accommodation
A kettle left switched on in an unoccupied cabin caused a serious accommodation fire aboard an anchored vessel. Failure of its cut-off switch was considered highly probable. The flash discusses firefighting access, boundary cooling, beard-related breathing-apparatus leakage and questions about permitted portable electrical equipment. No injuries occurred, but damage and off-hire losses were substantial.
- 202131 Aug
Condition of fire-fighting installation and equipment
This safety flash describes obstructed fire-main nozzles in paint and chemical storage facilities and a corroded CO2 release station with illegible instructions. It suggests members may wish to inspect fire-fighting equipment, especially sprinklers and nozzles in poorly lit or infrequently visited vessel spaces, and check rarely inspected equipment for usability.
- 202131 Aug
What are audits for? Some eCMID findings
This safety flash reviews findings from 769 eCMID vessel inspections over the 12 months to April 2021. It highlights shortcomings in confined-space entry arrangements, chemical handling procedures, firefighting equipment, watertight closures, navigation equipment, engine-room practices and lifting-equipment management, alongside links to related incidents.
- 202131 Aug
Wrong key for the CO2 room
A weekly inspection found that the emergency key did not fit the padlock securing a fixed CO2 firefighting compartment, potentially preventing access to its activation panel. A replacement padlock and key were installed. The flash invites members to check rarely used emergency keys and controls.
- 202111 Aug
UK HSE: Oil company fined for hydrocarbon release – lack of written procedures
This safety flash describes prosecution following a release of more than 1000 kg of hydrocarbon gas at Beryl Alpha during well depressurisation. Missing risk assessment and written procedures left a technician relying on memory. Inadvertent defeat of emergency shutdown prolonged the release, while workers remained at muster for more than six hours.
- 202130 Jul
Acetylene quad fire on quayside
An acetylene cylinder quad caught fire on a quayside during vessel demobilisation involving removal of sea-fastenings by welders. No injuries were reported. The flash describes emergency response, cylinder puncturing, evacuation and cooling, and recommends pre-use inspections, appropriate quad storage and review of emergency procedures. Causes remained under investigation.
- 202112 Jul
Catering crew unfamiliar with firefighting systems and emergency stops
A galley water leak during vessel fire-pump testing exposed gaps in catering crew familiarity with electrical emergency stops and created potential for electrocution. An audit on another vessel identified similar firefighting awareness gaps. The flash recommends familiarisation, toolbox talks, galley fire drills and accessible, clearly marked emergency stops.
- 202112 Jul
Incidents relating to hatches and doors
Three cases concern a wired-open engine-room fire door, a watertight door left open at sea, and unprotected open wharf hatches. The flash explains the protective purposes of closed doors and reports crew intervention leading to hatch closure and locking, illustrating stop-work authority beyond the vessel.
- 20219 Jun
NTSB: Fire on laid up Dive Support Vessel
This flash summarises NTSB findings on a fire aboard an unattended, laid-up dive support vessel at a United States shipyard. An electrical short from an unidentified source was the probable cause; hot work was excluded. Disabled fire detection and absent continuous monitoring featured in the account. No injuries or pollution were reported.
- 202119 Apr
MAIB: Engine failure and subsequent fire
This flash summarises MAIB findings on Finlandia Seaways’ main engine failure and engine-room fire. A broken connecting rod preceded the fire, and an engineer suffered serious smoke-related injuries. It highlights maintenance management and manufacturer instructions, successful carbon dioxide suppression, absent escape breathing devices and difficulties confirming gas-bottle discharge.
- 202117 Mar
Tumble dryer fire: lint ignition
Lint trapped between a tumble dryer drum and its casing ignited in a vessel laundry. A steward stopped the dryer and extinguished the fire. The flash highlights raising the alarm first, reviewing planned maintenance, checking beyond filters and ensuring access for cleaning accumulated material.
- 202123 Feb
Disabled audible alarm on fire alarm panel
Routine testing revealed a fire alarm panel giving a visual warning but no audible alarm. Inspection identified a disconnected cable, although how it became disconnected remained unknown. The flash records inadequate testing and maintenance oversight, and suggests members may wish to verify audible and visual alarm functions.
- 202122 Jan
Fire Damages a Platform’s Living Quarters and Nearby Areas
A Pacific Region platform fire damaged accommodation and nearby areas, with a cigarette filter suspected as the ignition source. Shared circuitry disabled general alarm and public announcement systems. The alert identifies smoking-area, combustible-storage and firefighting deficiencies, recommending operators consider redundant wiring, improved receptacles, hazard analysis and emergency drills.
- 202114 Jan
Structural response to fire and explosion
Guidance sets out expectations for demonstrating offshore installations’ structural resilience to fire and explosion. It addresses accidental loading, critical elements, temporary refuges, fire partitions, post-explosion door performance and escape tunnels. Particular considerations include floating structures, safety gaps, scaffolding congestion, passive fire protection and combined-operation safety cases.
- 202026 Nov
Cabin fire caused by light fitting overheating
A minor fire in an unoccupied vessel cabin bathroom followed an internal short or failure in a ceiling light fitting. Its melted plastic cover ignited the toilet lid. The flash recommends cabin and light-fitting inspections, conditional electrical isolation, ready firefighting equipment and safe alarm-raising and response.
- 202026 Nov
Fires and fire risks on vessels
This safety flash describes laundry ignition after an overheated tumble dryer was opened, alongside findings linking incinerator overloading with plastic to exhaust fan overheating and bolt failure. It records extinguisher use and fire-team mobilisation, and calls for displayed loading recommendations, documented operator familiarisation and waste segregation.
- 202026 Nov
Smouldering fire in tumble dryer
A tumble dryer overheated following dust and residue accumulation in its exhaust ducting and failure of its protective heat sensor. Laundry ignited when the machine was opened. The flash describes extinguishing the fire and recommends regular cleaning, improved maintenance access, sensor checks and suitable laundry-room heat and smoke detection.
- 202010 Nov
Two incidents with electrical installations with potential for a fire
Two electrical incidents concern fat-contaminated galley sockets causing an earth fault and potential fire, and a minor machinery-space fire associated with lost terminal continuity. The flash describes socket isolation, lockout and cleaning, dry chemical powder extinguishing, and routine checks of electrical connections and terminations during planned maintenance.
- 202023 Oct
Firefighting (FiFi) Tank Outlet Blockage
A diving support vessel’s chamber firefighting tank outlet became blocked when a threaded endcap detached from its float and sank. The flash describes the plug assembly, potential loss of emergency water supply, permanent bonding of all six tank plugs, and recommended reviews for similar failure mechanisms.
- 202025 Aug
Fire in welding fumes extraction system
A shore-based workshop was evacuated after filters in a welding fume extraction unit caught fire. Blocked filters allowed metal particles to accumulate, oxidise and heat up. Portable carbon dioxide extinguishers proved unsuccessful; emergency services used water and cooling. The flash recommends incorporating manufacturer-specified pressure-display checks into routine operation and maintenance.
- 202024 Jul
Cargo Ignited on Truck Bed During Transportation
A truck carrying materials from a warehouse to a vessel experienced a cargo fire, extinguished by the driver without injury or truck damage. The ignition source remained undetermined. Concerns included unsecured cargo, flammable hand sanitiser and inadequate segregation. Recommendations address packaging, securing, load integrity checks and eliminating potential ignition sources before travel.
- 20201 Jun
Chemical Packing Leads to Fire Extinguisher Failure
A wheeled fire extinguisher failed when packed chemical blocked its siphon tube, delaying firefighting and leaving two personnel requiring medical evaluation. Compressor vibration contributed to the blockage. The alert recommends considering manufacturer-led annual maintenance, tube clearing, conditional extinguisher exchange and placement that accounts for equipment vibration.