The most common causes of fires onboard ships (and how to prevent them)

Fire onboard ships can be devastating: loss of life, significant damage to property, and operational disaster. Let's dive into the main causes and what we can do about them.

Fire is the third main cause of total vessel write-offs worldwide. Beyond the risk to life, fires can lead to significant operational setbacks through vessel downtime, repair expenses, and catastrophic operational costs. It’s also the most expensive cause of marine insurance claims, according to Allianz Commercial’s Safety and Shipping Review.

Engine room fires

Engine room fires are among the most common and dangerous on vessels, often resulting from fuel and oil leaks. You’ve got fuel lines, hot surfaces, and complex machinery all in one space. Regular maintenance isn’t just ‘busywork’; it’s what keeps everyone alive.

Causes
Poor maintenance, faulty fuel lines, overheating of machinery, and electrical failures.

Prevention

Regular maintenance and inspection of engines, fuel lines, and electrical systems are vital. Implementing a strict cleanliness regime to remove oil spills and ensuring proper ventilation can significantly reduce the risk.

Electrical fires

Electrical systems are another major concern. You know those shortcuts people sometimes take with electrical equipment? They’re just not worth the risk.

Causes

Faulty electrical equipment, overloaded circuits, poor maintenance, and the use of unauthorised devices. Electrical fires can occur anywhere on the ship where electrical systems are present.

Prevention

Regular inspections and maintenance of electrical systems, adherence to load capacities, and only allowing use of approved electrical devices. Train crew members to recognise the signs of electrical issues is also critical.

Galley fires

In the galley, it’s all about vigilance. One forgotten pan or grease buildup can spell disaster. Simple habits like cleaning routines and never leaving cooking unattended make all the difference.

Causes

Galley fires result from cooking equipment and operations. Overheated cooking oil, unattended stoves, and flammable materials near heat sources are common culprits.

Prevention

Never leave cooking appliances unattended, regularly clean cooking equipment to prevent grease buildup, and install and maintain proper fire suppression systems in the galley area.

Maintenance and hot work

Maintenance work, especially hot work, needs serious respect. Every spark has the potential to start something we can’t control. That’s why we have permit systems – they’re not just paperwork.

Causes

Maintenance work involving welding, cutting, or any activity that produces sparks can ignite flammable materials, especially in the presence of gas, oil, or other combustible substances.

Prevention

A hot work permit system should be in place. This includes conducting a risk assessment before work begins, ensuring the area is free of flammable materials, and having firefighting equipment on hand.

Cargo hold fires

Each cargo brings its own risks. Proper ventilation and stowage aren’t suggestions – they’re essential.

Causes

These fires can be caused by the spontaneous combustion of certain cargoes, chemical reactions, poor ventilation, or the improper stowage of goods. Flammable and hazardous materials pose a significant risk if not handled correctly.

Prevention

Adhering to proper cargo handling and stowage procedures, ensuring adequate ventilation, and monitoring cargo holds for signs of fire or smoke are essential. Additionally, crew members should be familiar with the specific hazards of the cargo they are carrying.

Smoking-related fires

The risks here are obvious. Designated areas exist for a reason.

Causes

Improper disposal of smoking materials can ignite fires, especially when they come into contact with flammable substances or materials.

Prevention

Implementing and enforcing strict no-smoking policies in hazardous areas, providing designated smoking areas with proper receptacles for extinguishing cigarettes, and educating crew on the risks of careless smoking are effective strategies.

Preventing fire on ships: in summary

Comprehensive training

Regular and thorough training is crucial, including emergency response drills. Practical knowledge can be lifesaving in critical situations.

Well-maintained fire systems

Ensure that fire detection and suppression systems are always in good working order. These systems serve as your final line of defense against fires.

Strong safety culture

Foster a culture where safety is prioritised not just in policy documents, but in everyday practice. This ensures that safety protocols are consistently followed and respected by all crew members.