The UK Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) has published a report detailing a fire incident aboard the Finland-registered roll-on/roll-off cargo ship, Finnmaster, while departing from Hull, England, on September 19, 2021. At 2013 hours, a fire ignited in the auxiliary engine room, leading to a loss of power. Fortunately, the fire was extinguished, and with tug assistance, the vessel safely returned to port. Although the auxiliary engine room sustained significant damage, no injuries were reported.
The investigation highlighted several critical safety issues. The fire originated from mechanical failures in one auxiliary engine, causing fuel to leak from a flexible hose that was improperly installed during an unapproved modification. Additionally, a malfunction in Finnmaster’s emergency generator circuit breaker hindered power supply to essential onboard systems. The fixed carbon dioxide fire-extinguishing system also failed to operate effectively due to identified defects. Ultimately, the crew’s response was hampered by the loss of these crucial safety systems.
In response to these findings, the MAIB has made several recommendations. It has urged the Finnish administration (TRAFICOM) to initiate amendments to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) regarding the testing of emergency power sources and fire-extinguishing systems. Finnlines Plc is advised to revise its training and defect reporting protocols, while classification society RINA is encouraged to facilitate an urgent review of maintenance procedures for fire protection systems and enhance guidance provided to surveyors and engineers.
