Near miss fire – epoxy overheating
- Safety Flash
- Published on 12 August 2019
- Generated on 11 February 2026
- IMCA SF 19/19
- 2 minute read
Smoke was seen coming from a 20′ freight container on the deck of a vessel. The smoke was caused by remnants of used epoxy which nearly caught fire.
What happened?
When the container was opened by the vessel’s fire-fighting team, it found the smoke coming from a number of metal cans containing left over epoxy.
What went wrong? What were the causes?
- When the mixed epoxy containers were put back into the container, they were stored near each other, which meant that the excess heat generated as the epoxy cured, could not be dissipated.
- The freight container was badly ventilated and not suitable for storage of chemicals.
What lessons were learned?
- Chemical storage should always be in accordance with any local regulations.
- Each chemical storage area should have a specific and separate risk assessment.
Our member recommends the following:
- Store epoxy leftovers in metal cans and in small quantities (maximum 2 litres) to avoid the build-up of excessive heat.
- Place cans on a metal drip tray in a well-ventilated area.
- Keep storage area free of any flammable materials.
- Residual epoxy mixture should be observed frequently until the material has cooled down.
- During this curing process, CO2 and water fire extinguishers should be present.
Related Safety Flashes
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IMCA SF 03/18
31 January 2018
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IMCA SF 17/08
3 December 2008
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IMCA SF 07/01
1 July 2001
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