In a report published by IMCA, a rodent found its way into the emergency switchboard cabinet on board a vessel, causing a short circuit, sparks and a foul smell. The fire alarm was also sounded, with led to the emergency generator room.
The incident
A fire alarm was sounded tracing back to the emergency generator room. A rodent got into an emergency switchboard cabinet, causing a 440V short circuit, sparks and a foul smell. The board was isolated and the dead rat was removed.
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Probable cause
As IMCA informed this was an isolated incident where the rodent came on board during port stay, and entered the emergency generator room when the door was opened during routine weekly testing.
The crewmembers had not seen any rodents in recent months, and there was no evidence anywhere on the ship.
All the doors were kept closed at all times, while rat traps were in place at various locations.
Lessons learned
- Check thoroughly for rodents in accommodation, the stores and on the deck;
- Rat traps should be on deck and in accommodation and stores, while the baits should be renewed;
- During port stay, rat guards have to be used on moorings;
- During the loading of provisions/cargo, crew has to be extra vigilant for presence of rodents.
