SHIP FIRES

Our ref: HSR/2/7

Head Office Circular: NP/107/23

16^th June 2023

To: The Secretary

ALL SHIPPING BRANCHES

REGIONAL COUNCILS

 

Dear Colleague,

 

SHIP FIRES

 

I recently wrote to the Marime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) and the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) expressing deep concern about the increase in fires onboard vessels.

 

I asked for available statistics and/or analysis you may have undertaken of recent onboard fires in order for me to consider any common themes. A response has been provided by the MAIB.

 

At its meeting on 13^th June 2023, your National Executive Committee (NEC) noted and adopted the following report from its Health and Safety sub-committee:

 

We note the statistics provided to us by the MAIB. We further note that the data for 2022 is due to be available in June 2023.

 

Once this data has been provided and the figures analysed, the General Secretary is instructed to arrange a meeting between the RMT, MCA and MAIB in order to initiate further discussion given the common themes that emerge from the statistics, evaluate any trends, and investigate what precautions can be put in place and training provided in order to reduce the number of electrical fires, engine, galley and boiler files.

 

Following these actions, this matter to be placed back before this NEC.

         

I am acting in line with the decision. Please bring the contents of this circular to the attention of relevant members. 

 

Yours sincerely

 

 

Michael Lynch

General Secretary