Marine Safety Forum released a Safety Alert focusing on a case where during routine maintenance onboard vessel, crew discovered an exposed electrical cable.
The incident
The vessel`s E.T.O. was engaged in routine maintenance within a bridge storage locker and discovered an exposed electrical cable.
As explained, the cable was from a Fluorescent tube light which had been fitted in the locker, this cable was left uninsulated, which presented a potential for electrical shock and/or a fire hazard.
Wires are covered in casings that resist electricity, and when these casings fail, the exposed wire can cause damage to electronic devices. At best, devices will not get as much power as they should. The Device may perform more slowly, and if a screen is involved, it might appear dimmer.
At worst, damaged wiring may generate a power surge that can damage a device. A tangled cobweb of cables, alongside a bare or damaged wire constitutes a danger. Not only is there a sever fire risk, but death from live electric wires is not uncommon.
Lessons learned
- Check all areas where wires meet other moving objects (i.e. Under bridge consoles)
- Check all areas where wires connections are frequently adjusted (i.e. DP systems which are disconnected for trials etc.)
- Check where there is heavy human traffic (i.e. Consoles with on / off switches, consoles where breakers are frequently being checked, changed out, or removed for isolation reasons)
- Areas which have had work recently done on them, adjustments, retrofits, etc.
- Outside electrical compartments, which may be more suspectable to damage, wear, and tear
All electrical appliances should be firmly secured and served by permanent connections whenever possible. All electric wiring should be well maintained and kept clean and dry.
