Inadequate maintenance and securing arrangements of emergency exit hatches
- Safety Flash
- Published on 17 September 2018
- Generated on 4 December 2025
- IMCA SF 21/18
- 1 minute read
The port side emergency exit to deck from the steering gear room failed to open during an inspection by shore-side management.
What happened?
In addition, inappropriate locking arrangements (bolt with a nut) were found used for various emergency exit hatches located on both sides of the main deck.
What were the causes?
- There were inappropriate locking arrangements for emergency exit hatches – these should not be used. This practice could have led to a potentially hazardous situation where the hatch could not be opened.
What lessons were learned?
- As per company planned maintenance schedule, the correct and full operation of all watertight doors and escape hatches should be checked on a weekly basis.
- Safety inspections and maintenance of critical equipment should be conducted in an effective manner.
Related Safety Flashes
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IMCA SF 14/17
9 June 2017
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IMCA SF 11/15
10 August 2015
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