Final report
Abstract
On 18 November 2008, while the Maltese registered bulk carrier Saldanha was anchored off Newcastle, NSW, a ship's engineer was burned when the auxiliary boiler furnace 'flashed back' during a routine boiler oil firing unit burner exchange.
The ATSB investigation into the incident found that the ship's crew were not aware of all of the hazards associated with maintaining the boiler burner; were not aware of previous flashbacks involving similar burners; and were not aware of the appropriate first aid treatment required for burn injuries.
The investigation also found that the safety bulletin that had been previously issued by the manufacturer did not inform operators that the oil firing unit could be modified.
Occurrence summary
| Investigation number | 258-MO-2008-010 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 18/11/2008 |
| Location | Off Newcastle |
| State | New South Wales |
| Report release date | 22/10/2009 |
| Report status | Final |
| Investigation level | Systemic |
| Investigation type | Occurrence Investigation |
| Investigation status | Completed |
| Mode of transport | Marine |
| Marine occurrence category | Engine Room Fire |
| Occurrence class | Incident |
| Highest injury level | Serious |
Ship details
| Name | Saldahna |
|---|---|
| IMO number | 9268992 |
| Ship type | Bulk Carrier |
| Flag | Malta |
| Departure point | Newcastle, NSW |