Combating and Preventing Steering Gear Compartment Oil Fires

A fire in the steering gear compartment, especially involving large quantities of lubricating or hydraulic oil, can spread rapidly and cause severe damage to the ship. Such fires are primarily Class B (flammable liquids) but may escalate to Class A (solid materials) if nearby objects catch fire. Effective response requires prompt action, proper procedures, and preventive measures.

Procedures and Means for Extinguishing the Fire

1. General Approach

The primary goals in extinguishing a Class B fire are to cool the area, smother the flames, and prevent the fire from spreading.

2. Initial Response Actions

1. Notify the Bridge immediately with a clear report on the location, nature, and extent of the fire, and report any injuries.
2. Muster the fire-fighting team and set the Fire and Emergency Signal (7 short blasts + 1 long blast on the ship's whistle and general alarm).
3. Safety first: Ensure all crew wear proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) due to smoke and toxic fumes.

3. Fire-Fighting Procedures

a. Secure the Steering Gear Compartment

• Power isolation: Trip the main power supply to steering gear pumps and any non-essential electrical equipment. Do not use water on live electrical equipment.
• Ventilation: Stop ventilation fans to limit oxygen supply and prevent the spread of smoke and toxic fumes.
• Oil supply: Isolate or stop the hydraulic oil supply to prevent further fuel feeding the fire.

b. Fire Extinguishment

• Cooling: Water should be used primarily for cooling, not direct extinguishment.
• Fire-smothering agents: These are essential for extinguishing oil fires.

Methods to Use:

1. CO₂ System (Primary):
   • Most effective for Class B fires.
   • Maintain isolation for 30–60 minutes post-discharge to allow cooling and venting.
   • Ensure “UNAUTHORIZED ENTRY” signs are placed; no crew should re-enter without proper SCBA and a backup person.
2. Fixed Water Fog System (Secondary):
   • Primarily for cooling surrounding structures (bulkheads, deck).
   • Can aid in fire suppression if CO₂ is unavailable, but CO₂ is preferred.
3. Portable Fire Extinguishers (Foam, Dry Chemical Powder) (Tertiary):
   • For small or localized fires.
   • Attack the base of the flame.
   • Never use water directly.
4. Fire Smothering Equipment:
   • Fire blankets or non-flammable covers can separate fuel from oxygen to smother the fire.
5. Adjacent Compartments:
   • Use foam or dry chemical powder to cool nearby compartments (crew accommodation, engine room) to prevent fire spread.

4. Post-Extinguishment and Re-Entry

1. Monitor & Secure: Maintain isolation for 30–60 minutes post-extinguishment.
2. Ventilation: Use portable blowers or main fans (if undamaged) to ventilate after confirming safety.
3. Re-entry: Authorized teams (2 persons with SCBA + backup) inspect for hot spots, secure damage, and ensure complete extinguishment.

Preventive Measures to Avoid Steering Gear Compartment Fires

1. Cleaning and Housekeeping

• Maintain strict cleanliness in the compartment, especially around hydraulic systems.
• Remove oil spills and sludge immediately.

2. Oil & Sludge Control

• Inspection and Maintenance (STOP Standard):
  • Monitor pump and bearing temperatures.
  • Check all hydraulic piping, hoses, and joints for leaks.
  • Maintain cleanliness; no accumulation of oil or sludge.
• Leak Prevention:
  • Any oil leak is a hazard and must be reported immediately to the Chief Engineer.
  • Tag and secure machinery for repairs.
  • Clean all affected areas (piping, deck, bilge) after repair.

  3. Electrical Safety

  • Inspect wiring regularly; repair or replace frayed or damaged wiring.
  • Avoid using damaged or non-approved electrical equipment.

  4. Hot Work Procedures

  • Any welding, cutting, or grinding requires a Hot Work Permit and a fire watch.
  • Ensure no fire hazards are present before, during, and after the work.

  Safety Notice to Crew (Sample)

  “All crew members are reminded that oil leaks in the steering gear compartment are a serious fire hazard. Maintain strict housekeeping, inspect all hydraulic and electrical systems regularly, and report any leaks immediately. Hot work is only permitted with authorization and a proper fire watch. Vigilance and adherence to safety procedures are the first line of defense against fires that can endanger the vessel and crew.”