Sparks from funnel caused small fire
- Safety Flash
- Published on 12 March 2019
- Generated on 25 April 2025
- IMCA SF 04/19
- 2 minute read
What happened?
A small fire was detected on the well deck area of a diving support vessel (DSV). This occurred during diving operations whilst the vessel was in DP3 mode.
The fire was extinguished by the Bosun, using two foam extinguishers. There was no injury to personnel or damage to equipment.
The correct protocol was followed by vessel personnel – activation of manual fire alarm and muster of all personnel; an amber light given to dive control (together with verbal warning of fire). The dive supervisor then ordered divers back to the Bell.
What went wrong?
The fire resulted from sparks which fell from the starboard funnel into the well deck area and ignited a 1 tonne gabion sack containing cardboard (which was being stored for onshore recycling).
What were the causes?
- A build-up of soot in the exhaust system, caused by prolonged operation of vessel engines in low load.
- Lack of maintenance routine for clearing of soot within the system.
What actions were taken?
- Extensions installed onto drain plugs to provide easier access for planned maintenance activities.
- As a secondary precaution, gauze type spark arrestors manufactured and installed on top of each exhaust stack.
- Update planned maintenance regimes, with regard to the cleaning of soot collectors and routine checks for soot removal.
Related Safety Flashes
-
IMCA SF 04/18
20 February 2018
-
-
IMCA SF 01/15
16 January 2015
IMCA Safety Flashes summarise key safety matters and incidents, allowing lessons to be more easily learnt for the benefit of the entire offshore industry.
The effectiveness of the IMCA Safety Flash system depends on the industry sharing information and so avoiding repeat incidents. Incidents are classified according to IOGP's Life Saving Rules.
All information is anonymised or sanitised, as appropriate, and warnings for graphic content included where possible.
IMCA makes every effort to ensure both the accuracy and reliability of the information shared, but is not be liable for any guidance and/or recommendation and/or statement herein contained.
The information contained in this document does not fulfil or replace any individual's or Member's legal, regulatory or other duties or obligations in respect of their operations. Individuals and Members remain solely responsible for the safe, lawful and proper conduct of their operations.
Share your safety incidents with IMCA online. Sign-up to receive Safety Flashes straight to your email.