Dropped halogen lamp caused small fire
- Safety Flash
- Published on 2 July 2024
- Generated on 10 October 2025
- IMCA SF 13/24
- 2 minute read
A halogen lamp fell from a scaffolding where the work was taking place, causing a small fire.
What happened?
During painting work taking place on a vessel during the hours of darkness, a halogen lamp fell from a scaffolding where the work was taking place, causing a small fire in a scaffold board below. Motormen and deck mechanics promptly responded, adhering to the appropriate emergency protocols, and the fire was extinguished easily.
There were no injuries, but the lamp was destroyed and the scaffold board damaged.
Damaged scaffold board
Halogen lamp that fell
What went wrong?
- Our member’s root cause analysis discerned that the lamp was blown over by gusts of wind. It was placed in an open environment, exposing it to the weather conditions;
- There was a lack of proper supervision of the halogen lamp during the breaktime absence.
Lessons
- Was this lamp fit for the job? Consider the use of LED lamps.
- Shut down all equipment before taking a break, or ensure a watch is kept over running equipment.
- Ensure installed equipment is stable and safe before starting work, and also after returning from a break.
- Remain aware of weather conditions and what is going on around you when working.
Related Safety Flashes
-
IMCA SF 02/24
22 January 2024
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.