The job of the ship`s engineers is to ensure all machinery on board works properly. This includes not just the main engines but also equipment such as the generators that provide electricity and the windlasses [definition] on deck that are used to moor a ship. Poor maintenance resulting in a breakdown during critical conditions is a very common cause of accidents. For instance, in a gale at sea a ship might only be safe if it keeps its bows [definition] pointing into the wind. In this situation, an engine stopping could allow the ship to be rolled over by the wind and waves.

Fires

Fire can result from poor maintenance. For instance, a pipe carrying fuel may be so corroded that the oil spills and catches fire. If soot is allowed to build up in an exhaust pipe, it might catch fire. Fire can often be a result of unsafe practices. Ships have been burned out in port because a spark from a welder`s torch set fire to flammable material, such as life jackets.

`Dara` ravaged by fire

Sometimes a ship`s cargo could cause a fire. For instance, coal could catch fire spontaneously under certain conditions. Putting out the fire means pumping in sea water, which risks sinking the ship.

The hulls of iron and steel ships could not burn, but their engines, boilers and fuel introduced other possible causes of fire. Tankers are very vulnerable to fire, especially when they are loading and unloading. Very strict precautions have to be taken.

Weather

Human error

Poor Stowage of Cargo

Poor Maintenance

Mechanical Failures

Hostile Acts