- Recently FOBAS tested several samples from ARA region, ordered as ISO-FDMA grades, having tested flash points below the 60°C SOLAS minimum limit for marine fuel oil.
- Tested results range from <40°C to 54°C.
- SOLAS refers to minimum of 60°C flash point for marine fuels and therefore no test tolerance range applies to the limit of 60°C which is considered as absolute.
A recent Ship and Bunker news article states that, according to Low Flash Point
Distillate Marine Fuels in ARA Region.
Ship should contact the ship’s classification society
As a first step for any ship having bunkered fuel with a low flash point, it is recommended that ship should contact the ship’s classification society, flag state and the insurance underwriters immediately for further advice.
Secondly further samples from the top of relevant storage tanks should be taken to confirm the flash point of the fuel in tanks as it can be the case that low flash point have been due to some of the low flash components in the fuel which are prone to evaporate giving rise to the flash point of fuel.
Best practice safety guidelines
Best practice safety guidelines should be followed to reduce the potential risk due to low flash point fuel:
- Maintain fuel temperatures in storage tanks at minimum possible
- Check fuel tank vent gauze condition
- Keep relevant tanks well ventilated to minimize accumulation of flammable gases
Avoid hot work and smoking or any other heat source in the vicinity of fuel storage tanks and vents - Observe any other relevant safety procedures contained in international safety code
If your ships are planning to bunker at these ports, we recommend that suppliers are advised of your concerns regarding the flash point of the fuel and that they provide you with additional reassurance that they will meet the SOLAS requirements for marine fuel oils.
Additional attention should be given to the collection of bunker samples. It should be ensured representative of the fuel as loaded.
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Source: Ship and Bunker
