Lessons learned: A small oversight could become a major incident

IMCA draws lessons learned from an incident where a stored snowblower created an unnecessary fire and explosion risk, as well as blocking access around critical equipment.

What happened?

During a routine “safety round” on a vessel, a snowblower was found stored inside the emergency generator room. At first, the crew saw no issue with this setup.

But a closer look revealed the following:

• The snowblower still contained flammable fuel (petrol/gasoline).
• Pilot ladders were stored right next to it.
• All of this was inside a machinery space full of ignition sources.
• This created an unnecessary fire and explosion risk, as well as blocking access around critical equipment. The snowblower was moved. 

What could have been done better?

• Always store petrol/gasoline powered equipment, fuel, and other flammable substances, in a safe, designated area.
• Keep the emergency generator room clear for emergencies – no loose equipment, no fuel, no excuses.
• When storing potentially flammable stores or equipment, ask this question: “If this catches fire, what else goes with it?”
• Treat all machinery spaces as high-risk zones, not general storage – don’t place fuel, tools, or random gear in machinery spaces.

Lessons learned

• A small oversight could become a major incident – stay alert, stop and think.
• Just because something “fits” somewhere doesn’t mean it “belongs” there.
• If something “feels wrong”, speak up, challenge the habit before it becomes the norm.

Actions to consider

• Review onboard storage and house-keeping procedures and practice – an untidy workplace is an inherently unsafe workplace.
• Double-check all machinery spaces during inspections.
• source : safety4sea