2008/18
ATSB final investigation report on ship fire off Newcastle
25 June 2008
The ATSB has found that the engine room fire on board the general cargo ship
Baltimar Boreas off Newcastle, on 9 February 2007, started after diesel oil leaking
from a failed fuel hose on one of the ship's generator engines ignited.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau investigation found that long term wear
from chafing caused the flexible fuel hose to fail. Inadequate maintenance, use of
longer than specified hoses and temporary repairs contributed to the poor condition
of a number of hoses on the ship's generators. The length of the fuel hoses, as
designed, was also not consistent with internationally-prescribed guidelines. The
condition of the hoses had not been noticed during previous surveys, audits or
inspections. The investigation also found that the ship's funnel ventilator closing
arrangements were not in accordance with the intent of the relevant international
regulations.
At 2305 on 8 February, the Bahamas registered Baltimar Boreas sailed from
Newcastle with a cargo that included 945 tonnes of the industrial explosive,
ammonium nitrate.
At 0250 on 9 February, the ship's fire detection system indicated a fire the engine
room. On investigation, the second engineer found a large fire on number three
generator. He quickly raised the alarm and stopped the engine room ventilation
fans. The crew mustered quickly, operated systems to stop the engine room oil
pumps and prepared to fight the fire. All the engine room ventilators were closed,
except those at the top of the funnel which were inaccessible because of thick
smoke and sparks issuing from them.
At 0305, Halon gas from the engine room fixed fire extinguishing system was
released and the master then sent a distress message. A rapid response to the
incident ashore was coordinated by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority.
Baltimar Boreas was about five miles off the coast and a passing ship stood by to
assist if necessary. A tug from Newcastle, with fire-fighting capability, was also
sent to assist.
At 0340, the ship's crew determined that the fire was extinguished. There were no
injuries but fire damage in the engine room had disabled the ship. By 1030, the tug
had taken Baltimar Boreas in tow and the ship berthed in Newcastle for repairs
later that day.
The ATSB has issued a number of recommendations and safety advisory notices
with the aim of preventing similar incidents in the future.
Copies of the report can be downloaded from the ATSB's internet site or obtained from the ATSB by telephoning (02) 6274 7687 or 1800 020 616.
Media Contact: George Nadal 1800 020 616
Related Documents: | Marine Occurrence Investigation No. 236 |
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