Survitec Wins Safety Award for Exposing Maritime Fire Risks
A groundbreaking white paper by survitec has won the IBJ Safety in Maritime award, shining a spotlight on critical fire safety failures in the maritime industry.Unveiling Fire Safety Gaps
The white paper, titled "Why Are the Fires Not Going Out? Unveiling the True Cost of Inadequate Fire Safety Inspections," highlights alarming deficiencies in fire safety practices. Drawing on global data and real-world testimonies, Survitec reveals widespread lapses, including:- Untrained crews conducting fire safety maintenance
- Use of counterfeit or incorrect parts
- Contaminated or poorly installed firefighting systems
- Safety certifications granted despite glaring flaws
Alarming Trends
Fire incidents on ships have surged by 17% year-on-year, now accounting for over 20% of maritime losses, according to Survitec. Even with advancements in fire safety technology, thousands of incidents are reported annually, underscoring a need for stricter oversight and improved maintenance practices.Real-Life Failures
- Engine Room Fire: A vessel’s high-expansion foam system failed during an emergency due to a protective cap blocking the system.
- CO2 System Failure: On a bulk carrier, recently certified CO2 cylinders failed to activate during a fire, resulting in $2-3 million USD in damages and downtime.
Rising Risks with New Technologies
Survitec warns of increasing risks posed by alternative fuels and lithium-ion batteries, which demand specialised firefighting systems. The company calls for higher quality control standards and rigorous international oversight of safety inspections.A Call for Accountability
Metkel Yohannes, Director of Service & Rental Solutions at Survitec, stated:“Fire safety is not a cost-cutting opportunity. Shipowners must partner with accredited experts to ensure systems perform under the toughest conditions. Anything less is a direct threat to crew safety and vessel integrity.”
