It was morning, and outside there was a light breeze and some drizzle. The crew of the container vessel was preparing to wash down the main deck and cargo hatches before arrival in port the same afternoon. They had the rare opportunity to do this as there were no containers on deck, only in the cargo hold.

Fire hoses were connected, and the decision was made to use two fire pumps and close the valves on the fire line for the anchors. These valves are normally left open, but this action would increase the water pressure.

The crew then left for their lunch break, leaving the fire pumps switched on and the valves closed.

Read more about this case in the latest Monthly Safety Scenario.

For more Loss Prevention information, please contact: 
Joakim Enström, Loss Prevention Officer
E-mail: joakim.enstrom@swedishclub.com

Each month the Club’s Loss Prevention team issues a new safety scenario to assist members in their efforts to comply with international safety regulations and follow best practices.