The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) announced it has started an investigation on the fire that occurred onboard the bulk carrier ‘Iron Chieftain’ at Port Kembla, on 18 June.
While alongside the berth discharging cargo, the crew received a fire alarm and observed flames and smoke emanating from the discharge boom and C loop area. The ship was evacuated and CO2 discharged into the engine room. Emergency services commenced fire control. Over 100 firefighters were deployed.
The fire was reportedly started on a conveyor belt, and then it spread into the ship’s hold. The vessel is structurally sound, despite the fire, while the ship’s crew has been evacuated safely.
As part of the investigation, the ATSB will investigate the fire and subsequent control measures, interview the crew and fire services personnel and gather additional information.
A final report will be released at the end of the investigation.
Should a critical safety issue be identified during the course of the investigation, the ATSB will immediately notify those affected and seek safety action to address the issue.
