Neglecting Maintenance Procedures Led to $1.2M in Fire Damage

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has issued a report indicating that a maintenance error likely caused a fire on a product tanker, resulting in $1.2 million in damage and disabling the vessel. The incident occurred in April 2022 while the tanker was maneuvering within a shipping channel. The NTSB emphasized the importance of following recommended maintenance procedures and highlighted the consequences of a crew’s actions, noting that several recent casualties have been linked to mechanical or fuel line fitting failures following engine maintenance.

The fire occurred as the tanker was departing a terminal in New Jersey, and the crew’s quick response prevented more damage or injuries. The NTSB’s investigation revealed that a maintenance error likely led to a fuel leak and subsequent fire in the engine room. The second engineer, who had experience with this type of maintenance, did not correctly follow the manufacturer’s reassembly procedure for the fuel injector pump, resulting in a fracture and fuel leak when the engine was fully loaded.

The NTSB’s report emphasized the importance of following manufacturer assembly procedures and regular training to prevent and contain engine room fires. The crew’s effective response was credited with limiting the damage and preventing injuries, underscoring the significance of proper maintenance procedures and crew training in preventing maritime casualties.

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