While you are onboard, have you ever prepared for a blackout at sea?
Total power loss doesn’t just kill the lights on deckand engineroom, it can disable propulsion, steerage, communication, and safety systems.
And it often strikes at the worst possible time.
What do we mean by ship Blackout?
A vessel blackout is the total loss of electrical power from the ship’s main distribution system, powered by auxiliarygenerator.
It can be caused by generator failure, automation malfunction, clogged filters, fuel issues, generator governor failure, and overdue maintenance.
Why is ship Blackout Dangerous?
– Loss of steering & propulsion
– High collision risk in confined waters, near rigs or wind farms
– In rough seas, blackout is a big threat
– Lots of alarms to be reset
How to Prevent Ship Blackout ?
- Maintenance of Lube oil filters, pump, and supply line
- Regular maintenance of fuel systems, filters, sensors
- Verify emergency power systems and CO₂ readiness
- Clear, accessible blackout recovery procedures
- Practice blackout drills – simulate real failures
- Use FMEA (ie. Failure Mode Effect Analysis) to test and train your team
Conclusion
Know the backout recovery procedure.
Conduct blackout drills and make it real.
It’s not about how many auxiliary marine engines you have
It’s how fast you can start then and bring the ship back to life matters.
Keep your ship safe from collision and electrical equipment, getting damage.
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