Fires on board ships, especially in engine rooms, pose severe risks, including loss of life and substantial damage to vessels. This article discusses the prevention of such fires, which often stem from the abundant presence of fuel, oxygen, and ignition sources. A significant source of data is Gard’s hull and machinery (H&M) claims between 2017 and 2024, revealing that nearly 60% of fires originated in engine rooms, primarily due to failures in flammable oil systems.
Causes of Engine Room Fires
The study highlights that two-thirds of engine room fires are linked to main and auxiliary engines, frequently ignited by flammable oil leaking onto hot surfaces, typically over 400 °C. For instance, a case involving a fractured copper pipe in a fuel oil system showed how the lack of a spray shield allowed ignitable oil to spray onto a nearby turbocharger, leading to extensive equipment damage and a 40-day vessel downtime. Inadequate design and maintenance practices were noted, including the incorrect installation of parts and a failure to meet the relevant SOLAS regulations.
Common Causes of Fuel Leakage
Fuel leaks are often due to various factors:
- Non-original Parts: Use of non-original connections or components.
- Improper Maintenance: Loose fittings due to improper torquing or assembly mistakes during maintenance.
- Material Fatigue: Exhausted pipes poorly supported can result in fractures.
- Worn Hoses: Rubberized hoses degrading from machinery heat.
- Unimplemented Design Recommendations: Ignoring manufacturer suggestions increases risk.
The Importance of Shielding
Fire risks associated with the proximity of fuel lines to hot surfaces can often be mitigated through effective shielding. This involves both thermal insulation and physical barriers like spray shields, which may be inadequately implemented during ship construction or maintenance. Older vessels particularly require meticulous attention in this area due to potential degradation in protective measures over time.
Aging Vessels and Fire Risk
The article also emphasizes the relationship between a ship’s age and fire risk. Older vessels often show significant wear in safety features, which may result from budget cuts and inconsistent maintenance practices across various ownerships. In addition, newer ships often have advanced fire detection systems lacking in older models.
Data Insights and Trends
Gard’s analysis showed that from 2017 to 2024, main engine fire frequency exhibited a slight decline, while auxiliary engine incidents remained stable, with passenger and specific cargo vessels showing higher frequencies of fire occurrences. The data indicated that vessels with numerous deficiencies in safety inspections also faced increased fire risk, suggesting a systematically poor maintenance culture.
Recommendations for Fire Prevention
To reduce fire risks, the article outlines three key recommendations:
- Identify Leak Sources: Regular inspections to identify leakage points in fuel and oil systems to ensure components meet original specifications.
- Utilize Thermography: Implement thermographic examinations to detect hot surface areas and check insulation efficacy, enhancing early detection of potential ignition sources.
- Shield Hotspots: Conduct routine checks on thermal insulation and the condition of spray shields. Proper installation after maintenance is crucial.
Engaging external assistance for independent assessments can also enhance fire safety measures. By addressing these concerns, ship owners and operators can better protect their vessels and ensure a safer operational environment.
