The Norwegian Maritime Authority (NMA) issued an alert urging all shipping companies to ensure that hoses installed or intended to be installed in connection with the engine and in the engine-room of their vessels are type-approved and installed according to the supplier’s installation instructions.
The Norwegian Maritime Authority highlighted that this is particularly important for hoses and fittings where damage or rupture could result in oil or other flammable liquids splashing onto hot surfaces, increasing the risk of fire.
A thorough mapping and risk assessment must be carried out for all hot surfaces that may pose a fire hazard. Additionally, the NMA recommends the protection and insulation of hot surfaces, hoses, pipes, connectors and related components.
MSC.1/Circ.1321 – 11 June 2009 – Guidelines for measures to prevent fires in engine-rooms and cargo-pump rooms
- Hoses should be constructed to a recognized standard and be approved as suitable for the intended service, taking into account fire resistance, pressure, temperature, fluid compatibility and mechanical loading including impulse where applicable.
- Hoses should be installed in accordance with the manufacturers’ instructions, having regard to: minimum bend radius, twist angle and orientation, and support where necessary. In locations where hoses could possibly suffer external damage, adequate protection should be provided. After installation, the system should be operated at maximum pressure and checked for possible malfunctions and leakages.
Following a fire in the engine room of a vessel, the NMA has been informed that the fire was caused by a ruptured hose, which resulted in oil splashing onto hot surfaces.
The hose used on board was not intended for use on board vessels (it was designed for industrial applications) and was not installed in accordance with the supplier’s instructions.
