BIMCO has highlighted how known machinery defects, inadequate maintenance and delayed corrective action can lead to serious engine-room fires, following a review of three incidents involving fuel leaks, hydraulic oil leaks and electrical faults.
During a meeting of its Tanker Safety Network on 29 October 2026, BIMCO examined the operational and technical factors contributing to engine-room fires, emphasizing the importance of early hazard identification, timely repairs and effective maintenance practices.
The discussion also referenced Gard’s analysis of hull and machinery fire and explosion claims between 2017 and 2024, which found that nearly 60% of such incidents originated in engine rooms, and almost two-thirds of these engine-room fires involved main or auxiliary engines or associated components, including turbochargers.
Three incidents highlight preventable fire risks
BIMCO presented three cases demonstrating how equipment defects and shortcomings in protective measures can escalate into fire hazards.
- Fuel leak caused by an unsuitable replacement fitting: A pressure transmitter fitting with an incompatible thread failed, allowing fuel to spray onto a turbocharger with missing insulation. The case highlighted the importance of using appropriate replacement components and maintaining effective hot-surface protection.
- Hydraulic oil leak left unrepaired: A crew identified a hydraulic oil leak several hours before a fire occurred, but repairs were postponed until the vessel reached anchorage. The fire developed while the ship was still at sea, raising concerns about how crews assess warning signs and determine when immediate corrective action is necessary.
- Electrical fault in a starter panel: Following an auxiliary blower alarm, an inspection identified a burnt-out contactor and damaged electrical components. BIMCO discussed worn contacts, loose connections and maintenance deficiencies as possible contributing factors.
These cases underline how relatively minor defects can develop into serious incidents when protective arrangements are inadequate or corrective measures are delayed.
Maintenance decisions and operational pressures
Beyond technical failures, BIMCO examined the organizational and operational circumstances that can influence maintenance decisions.
Participants identified challenges involving spare-part availability, sufficient time for repairs and support for less experienced engineers. Expectations to reach the next port or anchorage were also discussed as factors that may contribute to postponing maintenance. The hydraulic oil leak case was particularly significant because the crew had already identified the defect before the fire occurred, demonstrating that recognizing a hazard is insufficient unless the warning is followed by an appropriate risk assessment and timely action.
The potential use of AI-assisted cameras and other monitoring technologies to provide earlier warnings of abnormal conditions was also discussed. However, participants stressed that improved detection must be accompanied by effective watchkeeping, maintenance and corrective action.
BIMCO emphasized the importance of proper pipe supports, tightening procedures, filter covers and flexible hoses, as well as ensuring that insulation and protective arrangements are correctly restored following maintenance.
Firefighting system reliability also examined
The meeting additionally raised questions about whether local water mist firefighting systems would remain available if an engine-room fire disrupted the vessel’s main electrical supply.
Participants discussed the role of emergency power arrangements, although the issue remained open for further examination.
The discussion highlighted the need to consider both fire prevention and the continued reliability of emergency response systems under adverse operating conditions.