200613 Accommodation fires
| Investigations into several accommodation fires reported from ships have revealed that in many instances they are caused by electrical equipment left on in unattended cabins. The most common are fans, but heaters and irons are known to have caused fires, due to malfunctioning thermostats. Accidents can also be caused by improper cabling and securing arrangements for such equipment. It has come to our notice that over the years some of our ships' staff have purchased various electrical equipment for use in individual cabins (irons, refrigerators, heaters, washing machines, microwave oven etc). When signing off, this equipment is sold or handed over to the incoming occupant and continues to remain in the cabin. Masters and chief engineers are required to look for the presence of such equipment in cabins during accommodation inspections. If any such unauthorised appliances are found, they are to be removed and disposed of. Chief engineers must understand and explain to all personnel that cabling and 'over-current' protection in the accommodation has not been provided for the purpose of such appliance use. Please also note that waste bins used in the accommodation should be of non-combustible material (metal). Empty paint drums with lids may be used if all paint contents and coating have been removed. (The use of paint is not advisable on waste bins as it will give off toxic fumes in the event of fire). |