Condensation Hazard on Electrical Panel (440V)
- Safety Flash
- Published on 17 November 2025
- Generated on 8 March 2026
- IMCA SF 21/25
- 2 minute read
Condensation water was observed dripping directly onto a 440V electrical panel.
What happened?
During a recent inspection, condensation water was observed dripping directly onto a 440V electrical panel in the engine room. This situation created a serious electrical safety hazard, with potential consequences including:
- Electrical short circuit.
- Equipment failure or fire risk.
- Electrical shock to personnel.
Condensation on high-voltage equipment (440V) can escalate to arc flash, fire, or total blackout of critical systems.
Why did it happen?
- The electrical panel was located directly beneath HVAC ducts or cold pipelines. Condensation formed on the chilled surfaces and collected into droplets, which fell onto the panel.
- There were no drip trays, insulation, nor shielding, which allowed water to come into direct contact with the electrical enclosure.
- This hazard was not identified during the vessel’s design stage or adequately addressed during regular inspections and maintenance.
What do we learn?
- Electrical panels are vulnerable to environmental conditions such as condensation and leaks; ingress of even a small quantity of water can corrode breakers and cause latent failures.
- Panels located under HVAC ducts, cold pipelines, or areas prone to condensation are at higher risk of water ingress.
- Design the failing out! Preventive design measures (e.g., drip trays, insulation, shielding) are essential to reduce risk.
- Regular inspections can help to identify issues before they develop into serious safety hazards.
- Check carefully and regularly for condensation above or near electrical equipment—not just during scheduled inspections.
Members may wish to refer to:
Related Safety Flashes
-
IMCA SF 10/21
8 April 2021
-
-
IMCA SF 08/21
17 March 2021
-
-
IMCA SF 13/19
4 June 2019
-
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.