Mars Reports 2014
The Nautical Institute has issued Mars Report No 14/2014 on water mist fire suppression.
There have been many detentions due to inoperative water mist firesuppression systems discovered during port state control inspections.In each case, the water supply valve was found in the closed position,essentially rendering the water mist system not readily available forimmediate use.
Often, the chief engineer did not know that the water supply valvewas in the closed position. It appears that the valves are closed toprevent accidental operation during maintenance and not returned tothe open position once maintenance is completed.
It is highly advisable to make frequent rounds and inspections ofthe water mist system, paying close attention to valve alignment.Additionally, it is advisable to ensure that there is adequate labellingand that correct procedures are established so that the valve isnot overlooked and accidentally left closed. Existing and new crewmembers must know at all times that critical fixed fire-fightingequipment is available for immediate use. |
Source: The Nautical Institute/ Mars Report
The Mariners’ Alerting and Reporting Scheme (MARS) is primarily a confidential reporting system run by The Nautical Institute to allow full reporting of accidents (and near misses) without fear of identification or litigation. As a free service to the industry, MARS reports also regularly comprisealerts condensed from official industry sources, so that issues resulting from recent incidents can be efficiently relayed to the mariner on board. With access to the internet from vesselsbecoming more affordable, the MARS database is a valuable risk assessment, work planning, loss prevention tool and training aid for crew and management. MARS reports are held in a publicly-accessible database and can be accessed by clicking on the link below: Contact the Editor of MARS at[email protected] |