Fuel oil hose burst during bunkering
- Safety Flash
- Published on 19 November 2021
- Generated on 6 December 2025
- IMCA SF 31/21
- 1 minute read
During bunkering a vessel in port, a 2” fuel oil hose burst.
What happened?
The hose burst as the fuel transfer rate was increased at the start of the operation.
Around 30-50 litres of fuel oil were spilled on the jetty. Owing to the quick reactions of the Master and crew, no fuel went overboard.
What was the cause?
Our Member notes that this is a preliminary cause and investigation is ongoing.
The reason for the failure has yet to be confirmed; the hose had recently undergone a third-party test and certification.
Section of the hose that failed
Stowage of hoses in coiled position due to long lengths
Crew immediate response in containing the spill
A suggestion raised was that the fuel oil hose had been damaged over long periods of time by being stowed in an improper coiled position due to its length (longer than the deck stowing location).
Actions
Inspect cargo hose stowage and consider whether those that are stowed in a coiled position, need to be moved or changed in position more frequently so as to avoid damage / kinks in the same location.
Related Safety Flashes
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IMCA SF 24/21
31 August 2021
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IMCA SF 18/16
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IMCA SF 18/16
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IMCA SF 18/16
4 July 2016
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IMCA SF 18/16
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IMCA SF 18/16
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