Fire in the engine room – fuel spray fire
- Safety Flash
- Published on 4 December 2025
- Generated on 4 December 2025
- IMCA SF 22/25
- 2 minute read
A fire broke out on the starboard main engine due to a leak from the fuel pipe connection.
What happened?
A fire broke out on the starboard main engine due to a leak from the fuel pipe connection, which allowed fuel to be sprayed out onto hot engine surfaces. Although the fire was quickly extinguished by the crew and no injuries or pollution occurred, the incident highlighted a serious lapse in fuel line protective barriers and fire prevention measures.
What went right?
- The fire detection system activated immediately.
- The Master and the crew followed emergency response procedures; all personnel mustered safely.
- The Fire team responded quickly and effectively with portable extinguishers.
- The emergency generator auto-started when the blackout occurred.
What when wrong?
- After recent maintenance, bolts for a fuel return pipe were not reinstalled. This was the cause of the leakage.
- The protective cover of the injection pump and the fuel line was not refitted after maintenance.
- There was no anti-splashing tape applied on fuel lines near hot surfaces.
- The water mist system did not activate because its power supply was OFF.
- The quick-closing valves and emergency stop were activated late, showing that crew awareness of critical system timing could have been better.
What lessons can we learn?
- Always check after maintenance that all bolts, fittings, and covers (if fitted) are reinstalled. Create a check-list; use a check-list.
- Protective covers or Anti-splash tape should be fitted on exposed fuel pipes/joints near hot surfaces and should be replaced if missing or damaged; never leave them uncovered.
- Ensure safety equipment such as water mist systems, quick-closing valves and emergency stops, are in good working condition and that all crew are fully familiar with how safety equipment should be operated.
Related Safety Flashes
-
IMCA SF 14/23
12 June 2023
-
IMCA SF 14/20
28 April 2020
-
-
IMCA SF 15/18
20 July 2018
-
IMCA SF 35/16
20 December 2016
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.