Loss Prevention

Gard saw five fires originating in the main and auxiliary engines in the first month of 2025 alone. Tragically, some of these engine room fires resulted in fatalities and serious injuries to seafarers. While it is too early to draw any conclusions about how the rest of the year will go, it may be helpful to review experiences from recent years. Although the main cause of these fires may not be identical, there are certain similarities in the underlying patterns of the fires. Every year fires on board ships lead to loss of lives and severe damage to the vessels themselves. Most fires on board ships originate in the engine room Continue reading “Engine room fires are still a major concern”

The marine surveying industry has changed dramatically over the almost 50 years we’ve been boating. Back in the early days there were not any standards or certifying organizations for surveyors and still rules are adapting to thing surveyors cannot find. Those that had industry experience and connections just ‘hung out their shingle’. Some were very good and some were very bad! Continue reading “Things surveyors cannot find”

All fire protection systems onboard and appliances should at all times be in good order and available for immediate use while a ship is in service. A helpful recent Marine Notice by the Palau Ship Registry highlights and gives guidance about the requirements of their inspection regime.

Fire protection systems need to be inspected weekly, monthly, quarterly and annually, as follows to ensure proper functioning. Continue reading “Do you know when fire protection systems onboard should be inspected?”