Removing the causes
Most shipboard fires are preventable, and prevention means keeping the three elements of the fire triangle apart: controlling ignition sources, managing fuels, and maintaining good housekeeping. Hot work (welding, grinding) is controlled by permit; electrical faults are prevented by maintenance and not overloading circuits; oily rags and rubbish are not allowed to accumulate; smoking is confined to permitted areas; and flammable liquids are stored and handled properly. Good housekeeping — clean bilges, tidy spaces, clear escape routes — removes both fuel and the conditions for a fire to spread.
- Control ignition sources: hot work under permit, sound electrics, no smoking outside permitted areas.
- Manage fuels: proper storage of flammable liquids, no accumulation of oily rags or rubbish.
- Keep good housekeeping: clean bilges, tidy machinery spaces, clear escape routes.
- Maintain the fire detection and firefighting equipment so it works when needed.
WARNING — Oily rags and hot work start fires Two of the most common shipboard fire causes are accumulated oily rags (which can self-heat and ignite) and uncontrolled hot work. Dispose of oily waste properly and never do hot work without a permit and a fire watch.
TIP — Housekeeping is fire prevention A clean, tidy ship with clear bilges and no accumulated rubbish gives a fire nothing to feed on and nowhere to spread. Good housekeeping is one of the most effective fire-prevention measures there is.