NTSB studies of an engine room fireplace aboard a towing vessel.
Incident Overview
On January 30, 2024, round 3:30 a.m. CST, a hearth erupted within the engine room of the towing vessel whereas pushing 4 loaded barges close to Grand Rivers, Kentucky, on the Tennessee River. The crew of six detected smoke and flames close to the port primary engine, tried to struggle the blaze with extinguishers, however have been in the end compelled to desert ship. A Good Samaritan vessel rescued all crew members. There have been no accidents or environmental harm, however the vessel suffered $3 million in harm.
Trigger
The fireplace originated within the port primary engine space. Investigators decided the doubtless trigger was a mechanical failure that led to the ignition of close by flamable supplies. The speedy unfold of the hearth was worsened by insufficient onboard fireplace suppression capabilities and engine room design that allowed flames to propagate rapidly.
Classes Realized
Early Detection Is Crucial: Routine engine room checks have been being performed, however the fireplace nonetheless developed quickly—highlighting the necessity for improved fireplace detection programs.
Hearth Suppression Should Be Efficient: Moveable extinguishers proved inadequate. Built-in suppression programs (e.g., fastened CO₂ or water mist) may have helped comprise the hearth sooner.
Crew Preparedness Saves Lives: The crew’s adherence to emergency procedures and swift evacuation doubtless prevented accidents.
Design and Upkeep Matter: Common inspection of mechanical programs and lowering flamable supplies close to warmth sources are important to fireplace prevention.
This incident underscores the significance of strong fireplace security infrastructure and coaching aboard towing vessels, significantly in engine room areas.
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Supply: NTSB
