As most fires on board ships start in the engine room, Gard P&I Club has highlighted the main aspects associated with preventing engine room fires, based on observations made during condition surveys of vessels entered by the organisation’s personnel.
According to Gard, there are a number of built-in safety features on board a vessel, designed to limit the risk of fire and the spread of it, and the officers and crew must have full knowledge of these and maintain their integrity. Thus, the Club advises the following:
1 Maintaining steel separations
Steel separations play a crucial role in limiting the spread of fire within the ship’s compartments, safeguarding vital areas like the engine room, accommodation, and cargo sections. Maintenance of these fire boundaries is essential, particularly during alterations, to uphold their integrity and prevent fire propagation through cable and pipeline passages.
2 Having proper air ventilation systems
Proper control of air ventilation systems is imperative, including the functionality of fire flaps and awareness of all air inlet pathways to the engine room. Regular inspection and maintenance are necessary to ensure that ventilation openings can be closed effectively in the event of a fire, preventing the influx of oxygen that could exacerbate the situation.
3 Being aware of the presence of combustible oils
The presence of combustible oils within the engine room poses a significant fire risk, requiring strict adherence to safety protocols and regulations governing fuel and oil supply systems. Vigilance in maintaining valve controls and preventing unauthorized tampering with safety mechanisms are vital to mitigate the risk of oil-related fires.
4 Having general cleanliness within the engine room
Maintaining general cleanliness within the engine room is crucial for fire prevention, as accumulated oil and combustible materials provide fuel for potential fires. Proper storage practices and the removal of unnecessary combustible items help minimize fire hazards and facilitate firefighting efforts.
5 Identifying potential fire sources
Identifying and addressing potential ignition sources, such as hot exhaust pipes, electrical installations, and rotating machinery, is essential to mitigate fire risks. Regular inspection and maintenance of insulation and safety devices are necessary to prevent overheating and sparks that could ignite fires.
6 Having adequate fire fighting equipment and capabilities
Effective firefighting capabilities, including well-maintained fire extinguishers, fire pumps, and fixed extinguishing systems, are essential for prompt response to engine room fires.
7 Crew training and timely human intervention
Crew training and familiarity with firefighting equipment and procedures are critical for successful fire containment and suppression efforts. Additionally, timely decision-making and decisive action, such as the release of fixed firefighting systems, are crucial in preventing the escalation of fires into catastrophic events.
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