Independent investigation into the engine room fire on board the Bahamas registered general cargo ship Baltimar Boreas, off Newcastle, New South Wales, on 9 February 2007

Executive summary

At 0250 on 9 February 2007, about four hours after the Bahamas registered general cargo ship Baltimar Boreas sailed from Newcastle, the ship's fire detection system indicated a fire in the engine room. The second engineer investigated and found that number three diesel generator was on fire. He raised the alarm and discharged a portable extinguisher towards the fire before retreating from the engine room.

The crew mustered and operated the engine room oil tank quick closing valve system. All engine room ventilators, except those at the top of the funnel, were closed. At 0305, the engine room Halon fixed fire extinguishing system was operated and, soon after, the master made a distress call. At 0340, the crew determined that the fire had been extinguished. At 0351, the master cancelled the distress message.

By 0640, the chief engineer had concluded that it was impossible to supply power to the main switchboard due to the burnt electrical cables above the fire damaged generator. The ship was disabled but in no immediate danger and waited for a tug responding to the distress call to arrive.

By 1030, Baltimar Boreas was under tow and heading towards Newcastle. At 1920, the ship berthed in the port where its cargo was discharged.

At 1615 on 10 March, after repairs had been completed and its cargo reloaded, the ship sailed from Newcastle to continue its voyage.

The report issues a number of recommendations and safety advisory notices with the aim of preventing further incidents of this type.