The UK Marine Accident Investigation Department (MAIB) printed Security Digest 1/2025, highlighting issues of safety from current marine incidents. The Worldwide Marine Contractors Affiliation (IMCA) reviewed the findings and shared chosen instances of curiosity. One such case concerned a battery explosion on a barge.
What Occurred
A crew member narrowly averted damage when a set of 4 lead-acid batteries exploded because the generator engine was began after routine checks. The explosion occurred for the time being the beginning solenoid engaged to activate the starter motor. Fortuitously, the batteries have been housed in a safe metal locker that successfully contained the blast and minimized additional injury.
Why It Occurred
The batteries had been in service for over 5 years and have been of the valve-regulated lead acid (VRLA) kind. This sort was unsuitable for the vessel’s steady float charging system. Over time, the electrolyte degree doubtless decreased, exposing the cell plates. Corrosion of those uncovered plates led to inner short-circuiting underneath excessive discharge load, ensuing within the explosion. The battery charging system itself was functioning accurately and delivering the supposed trickle cost.
Actions Taken
Whereas no quick corrective actions have been detailed, the investigation highlighted points associated to battery kind suitability and the significance of long-term upkeep planning.
Classes Discovered
Batteries should be handled as essential gear with a devoted upkeep log.
Every battery needs to be tracked by kind, location, service begin date, inspection or upkeep historical past, corrective actions (if any), and substitute schedule.
Batteries should be chosen based mostly on compatibility with the vessel’s charging configuration to forestall long-term degradation and threat of failure.
Batteries needs to be stowed in well-ventilated, purpose-built lockers to handle gasoline build-up and cut back hearth or explosion dangers.
Lockers needs to be positioned in cool, dry areas and fitted with corrosion-resistant, explosion-proof gentle fittings.
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Supply: IMCA Buying and selling Ltd
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