A bulk carrier loaded with Indonesian coal experienced self-heating and fire in two cargo holds during discharge operations at an Asian port. The incident highlights the risks of spontaneous combustion in coal cargoes and the importance of strict adherence to IMSBC Code precautions.
Sequence of Events
The vessel loaded coal in Indonesia and sealed all hatch covers and openings. Gas readings and temperature checks during the voyage remained within the limits specified in the IMSBC Code.
Upon arrival at the discharge port, the vessel anchored and began unloading using its own grabs into barges. After several days of discharge, smoke was observed from cargo hold 3. The remaining coal in the hold was in 6-metre-high piles near the bulkhead. The fire team detected deck heat and measured a hold temperature of 66°C, methane at 120% LEL, and CO above 3,680 ppm. Shortly after, smoke was also detected in hold 4, which was almost empty but contained large coal piles. This hold had a temperature of 69°C, methane at 144% LEL, and CO levels exceeding 10,000 ppm. Flames became visible on the surface of the coal in both holds.
The Master notified the DPA and charterer, sought expert guidance, and deployed fire teams in full firefighting gear. Coal in both holds was sprayed with seawater, and discharge operations continued into different barges. The next day, following expert advice, holds 3 and 4 were flooded, successfully extinguishing the fire.
Contributing Factors
Indonesian coal is prone to self-heating due to oxidation, which generates heat that cannot dissipate when the coal is stored in large, insulated piles. During the voyage, reduced oxygen levels limited this self-heating reaction, delaying its onset.
However, discharge operations introduced atmospheric oxygen into the cargo holds, accelerating oxidation and triggering spontaneous combustion. The interval between opening the holds and the observed rise in carbon monoxide levels corresponded with the time needed for oxygen exposure to initiate a runaway heating reaction.
Actions Taken
- Fire teams deployed to affected holds for temperature and gas monitoring.
- Seawater is applied to burning coal.
- Discharge of affected holds to separate barges.
- Holds flooded under expert advice to fully extinguish the fire.
Safety Recommendations
- Follow the IMSBC Code guidelines to close the ventilation after loading when flammable gas is not accumulating.
- Minimize oxygen ingress to coal cargoes until ready for final discharge.
- Monitor coal cargo temperatures and gas levels during discharge as well as during the voyage.
- Be aware that coal stored in large piles near bulkheads is more prone to heat accumulation and ignition.
- Develop port-side emergency plans for rapid firefighting and flooding if self-heating is detected.
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Source: Swedish Club
