Smouldering coiled extension cable
- Safety Flash
- Published on 12 August 2019
- Generated on 10 July 2025
- IMCA SF 19/19
- 1 minute read
While ventilating a manhole in the engine room, the fire alarm was triggered when an electrical extension lead overheated, melting the insulation and started smouldering.
What went wrong?
Investigations confirmed that the electrical extension lead was not laid out in the correct manner and was still around 80% coiled. Also, the extension lead was the incorrect specification for the task of providing power to the blower.
What were the causes?
- Seafarers were unaware of the need to run out all the extension lead when using them.
- The extension leads available on board were not of an appropriate or correct specification.
What lessons were learned?
- Provide correct, fit for purpose specification extension leads.
- Ensure coiled electrical leads are unwound totally prior to use and include such instructions in safety management system (SMS) and on coil casing.
- Positive: All fire systems were operational, checked, drilled and crews reacted immediately alarm sounded.
What actions were taken?
- Thorough audit of all extension leads to ensure correct specifications, and removed all non-approved leads.
- Add electrical lead management to power and hand tools procedures, training and challenge tests in vessel SMS.
Related Safety Flashes
-
IMCA SF 18/18
23 August 2018
-
-
IMCA SF 16/16
27 June 2016
-
IMCA SF 05/10
28 July 2010
-
IMCA SF 10/07
20 December 2007
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.