Given the size and complexity of today’s vessels, issues with engines can quickly escalate into significant disasters. Considering the alarming increase in incidents associated with engine fires and failures in current years, strict adherence to established policies and recognized best practices in engine rooms is more essential than ever.

It has been recorded that most fires on board ships start in the engine room. A failure in the engine room can seriously affect overall safety. Additionally, new ships using engine propulsion with biofuels and methanol are already in service, and the shipping industry has modified its experience with these fuels. The long-term impacts of alternative fuels on engines and fuel systems have yet to be fully understood. In this context, best practices, established methods, and crew training and familiarity are important for ensuring enhanced safety in the engine room.

Modern merchant ships employed in global trade and cargo transportation must comply with multiple regulations and guidance related to construction, operations, and the safety of the ship, crew, cargo, and environment. While regulations for the Deck Department and Bridge operations have been designated for many years, procedures for the Engine Department are relatively new, as mechanical propulsion on ships has been in use for only about 200-300 years.

The engine room of a ship has a crucial difference compared to other ship spaces. It includes all related machinery and systems necessary for movement and electrical power supply, the appropriate control room for operation, maintenance areas, such as workshops, other related systems, and storage areas for fuel, oils, and spares, all within the limits of the engine room. It functions like a short industrial factory within the ship’s compartments. Thus, the operation of the engine room demands important skills and an organized approach, as Engine Department personnel must operate, monitor, and support the corresponding systems simultaneously.

The smooth operation of the engine room is important for the ship’s overall performance and daily operation. Safety Management Systems (SMS) should include specific actions and processes to ensure these requirements are met. Industry standards for ship management, such as the Tanker Management and Self Assessment (TMSA) for liquid cargo and the Dry Bulk Management Standard (DryBMS) for dry cargo, have specific sections and KPIs for secure engine room operations, that should be effectively executed within SMS. Ship managers and operators should have clear instructions and approaches within their Safety Management Systems or additional guides to protect all aspects of engine room activities and emergencies.

Moreover, as the engine room is a key department onboard ships, useful communication between the bridge and other crew members is important. For example, in the event of an emergency, operators must ensure that all communications are calculated, necessary, and proportionate, and follow comprehensive guidance and procedures. Best practices are also needed to maintain high standards of cleanliness at all times, as they are required for fire prevention. For instance, no oils or oily rags should be permitted near heat sources such as boilers and the main engine’s exhaust system. All combustible materials should be discarded, along with any ancient equipment that may hinder access in a fire situation.

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