JOSELITO - Very Serious Maritime Casualty
Vessel: JOSELITO
GAMA reference: 2014-136
Data da ocorrência acidental: 05-05-2014
Circulated on: 06-10-2014
Published on: 06-11-2014
Casualty Event: Fire
Summary
On 5 May 2014, JOSELITO was alongside at berth No. 1 in Sesimbra fishing harbour after discharging its catch. Shortly before 1700, the last crew member leaving the vessel operated the galley fluorescent-light switch. The light, which had been defective for some time, did not illuminate. The switch was reportedly turned off, and the galley door and both side windows were left open for ventilation. At approximately 1745, black smoke was observed emerging from the starboard galley window. The fire developed inside the upper starboard part of the galley. At approximately 1800, one butane cylinder exploded, followed about 50 seconds later by a second cylinder. The explosions intensified the fire, breached the starboard galley bulkhead and roof, and projected the cylinders and structural material into the harbour. The Sesimbra fire service arrived at approximately 1805 and declared the fire extinguished at 1910. No fatalities or injuries were reported.
Safety recommendations
No safety recommendations were issued.
Lessons learned
Defective electrical fittings should be isolated and repaired promptly, particularly in accommodation and galley spaces. Gas cylinders should be stowed in a dedicated and ventilated location that limits their exposure to fire and prevents an explosion from compromising occupied spaces or the vessel’s structure. Gas systems should be inspected regularly and tested for leakage. Ageing glass-reinforced polymer superstructures should be assessed and maintained to limit fire development. Suitable fire detection in galley and accommodation spaces can provide earlier warning when a vessel is unattended.