Maritec Pte presents safety measures for low flashpoint fuel bunkering, after testing three samples of VLSFO deliveries in Singapore with flashpoint as low as 54°C, as well as eleven samples of HSD and B35 deliveries in Indonesia with flashpoint as low as 41°C.
Maritec Pte reminds that according to SOLAS Chapter II-2, Part B, Reg. 4. Clause 2.1.1, no oil fuel with a flashpoint of less than 60°C shall be used. As a result, Maritec Pte advises that if a vessel has bunkered a low flashpoint fuel it is prudent to observe the below precautions:
- Flame screens on tank vents should be maintained in good condition and there should be no sources of ignition in the vicinity of the vents. This will assist in safe natural ventilation of volatile components in the fuel.
- No Smoking, No naked flame and No hot work must be allowed at any areas near to tank air vents.
- Send additional tank(s) samples upon arrival in port to check the fuel properties and flash point results especially if there has been co-mingling of fuels in bunker tanks
- If the vessel is out at sea it may be possible to obtain dispensation from your Flag State Administration up to next arrival port
- Put the supplier on notice promptly and notify your P&I club.
To remind, According to FuelTrust, in the past year alone, over 600 vessels were disabled through fuel problems, despite the fuel being ‘on-spec’, resulting in estimated global supply chain losses exceeding $5 billion.
