Fire: Smoke coming from an expired line-throwing apparatus (LTA) cartridge kept for disposal
- Safety Flash
- Published on 25 April 2019
- Generated on 3 November 2025
- IMCA SF 08/19
- 2 minute read
A fire alarm went off; the location of the fire was confirmed, and a team went for investigation. Heavy smoke was observed coming from a spare cabin.
What happened?
The incident occurred on a vessel working within 500m of a rig. The rig was informed, the vessel stopped work and immediately left the 500m safety zone.
A fully equipped fire team entered the cabin and it was found that the smoke was coming from an expired line-throwing apparatus (LTA) cartridge, which was being kept for disposal.
The expired LTA box was removed from the location and kept on the main deck.
line-throwing apparatus (LTA) cartridge which had expired
What went wrong? What were the causes?
- The expired pyrotechnics were stored for an extended period onboard the vessel.
- Inadequate work procedure and poor perception of risk.
What actions were taken?
The vessel crew made a prompt response to the situation, rapidly and professionally dealing with what could have been a serious fire.
What lessons were learned?
- Expired pyrotechnics should be showed in an appropriate, safe and properly marked location.
- Old pyrotechnics should not be stored on the vessel for long periods.
Related Safety Flashes
-
IMCA SF 14/18
9 July 2018
-
-
IMCA SF 14/14
7 August 2014
-
IMCA SF 13/12
11 December 2012
IMCA Safety Flashes summarise key safety matters and incidents, allowing lessons to be more easily learnt for the benefit of the entire offshore industry.
The effectiveness of the IMCA Safety Flash system depends on the industry sharing information and so avoiding repeat incidents. Incidents are classified according to IOGP's Life Saving Rules.
All information is anonymised or sanitised, as appropriate, and warnings for graphic content included where possible.
IMCA makes every effort to ensure both the accuracy and reliability of the information shared, but is not be liable for any guidance and/or recommendation and/or statement herein contained.
The information contained in this document does not fulfil or replace any individual's or Member's legal, regulatory or other duties or obligations in respect of their operations. Individuals and Members remain solely responsible for the safe, lawful and proper conduct of their operations.
Share your safety incidents with IMCA online. Sign-up to receive Safety Flashes straight to your email.