MAIB Releases Investigation of Engine Room Fire

The UK Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) released the report of the joint investigation (with the Cyprus Maritime Administration) of the engine room fire on the passenger vessel THE CALYPSO off Beachy Head on 6 May 2006. The primary cause of the fire was the failure of two flange bolts on a fuel pipe, allowing fuel to spray onto hot exhaust piping. Investigation revealed that the engine manufacturer had issued two safety bulletins concerning the bolts. Due to the ship’s frequent change in ownership, the bulletins were not acted upon by personnel on this ship. Investigation also revealed a lack of familiarity by senior ship personnel with operation of the fixed fire extinguishing system. Source: HK Law