Fire in ROV workshop
- Safety Flash
- Published on 30 October 2023
- Generated on 8 November 2026
- IMCA SF 25/23
- 2 minute read
A crew member noticed smoke coming from the ROV workshop and reported a fire
What went right?
- There was no panic, and the fire response team was ready at short notice.
- The communications system was used clearly and effectively.
- The training, experience and action of the fire response team, and the crew, prevented further damage
that could have significantly exceeded the actual damage, and even jeopardised the ship itself.
Fire broke out in ROV workshop when a rechargeable flashlight headset was being charged unsupervised
What went wrong
A rechargeable flashlight headset was left on charge unsupervised, also on a UPS supply.
Lessons learned
- The importance of checking the condition of all personal electrical equipment:
- All electrical appliances should be sourced from a reputable supplier and should be in good working condition.
- Plug sockets and extension leads should be used correctly and not overloaded.
- Charger cords for all electronic devices should be in good working condition (with no exposed wiring) prior to being brought offshore, and likewise, sourced from a reputable supplier.
- All electrical appliances should be sourced from a reputable supplier and should be in good working condition.
- Charging devices should not be left on surfaces that are potentially flammable or that can promote heat build-up:
- Avoid leaving charging cables or portable electronic devices on bedding.
- Remove electronic devices from chargers and outlets once fully charged.
- Avoid leaving charging cables or portable electronic devices on bedding.
- Include information about the hazards of charging portable devices during orientations and post relevant signage in living quarters.
Related safety flashes
-
IMCA SF 09/22
8 April 2022
-
IMCA SF 28/21
15 October 2021
-
-
IMCA SF 29/18
21 December 2018
-
-
IMCA SF 18/18
23 August 2018
-
-
IMCA SF 14/11
23 December 2011
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.