Published 29 October 2026
BIMCO’s Tanker Safety Network recently examined how leaking pipes, inadequate insulation and electrical faults can develop into serious fires.
Members shared practical experience and discussed the maintenance, technology and organisational support needed to reduce the risk.
The network met online on 29 October 2026 for a session on engine room fire prevention, combining three incident case studies with polling and an exchange of members’ experiences.
The presentation highlighted the human, operational and financial consequences of engine room fires. Gard’s analysis of its hull and machinery fire and explosion claims for 2017–2024 found that nearly 60% originated in engine rooms.
Three cases illustrated how defects and weaknesses in protective measures can combine:
The presentation also highlighted pipe supports, tightening procedures, filter covers and flexible hoses as areas requiring attention. Restoring insulation and protective arrangements after maintenance is an essential part of completing the job.
Members discussed the challenge of inspecting the large number of electrical components on board. Approaches shared included identifying critical equipment and incorporating inspection and servicing of contactors into the planned maintenance system. Participants also questioned how to capture risks elsewhere in the installation.
Alongside these technical measures, participants raised wider questions about the availability of suitable spare parts, time to carry out repairs and support for less experienced engineers. They discussed how expectations about reaching the next port or anchorage might influence decisions to delay maintenance.
Thermal imaging was discussed as a way to identify hot surfaces and gaps in insulation that may be missed during visual inspections. Members also considered the potential of AI-assisted cameras and other monitoring technology to provide earlier warnings.
The discussion underlined the need to connect detection with action. In one of the cases presented, the leak was already known before the fire occurred. Earlier warnings therefore need to be accompanied by an appropriate response, supported by effective watchkeeping, maintenance and decision making.
Members also raised a question about the continued availability of local water mist firefighting systems if a fire disrupts the main electrical supply. The role of an emergency power supply was discussed, with the issue remaining open for further examination.
Members shared additional experience of fires involving incinerators, tumble dryers and electrical equipment in accommodation spaces. Power banks and lithium-ion battery fires were suggested as a possible topic for a future session.
The Tanker Safety Network provides a forum for members to exchange operational experience and discuss common safety challenges. Members are encouraged to propose topics and share lessons from their operations.
