Reducing The Risk Of Fire In Vehicles and Mobile Plant
This alert highlights the importance of inspection and maintenance to reduce the risk of fire in vehicles and other mobile plant.
Background
In the first half of 2011, NT WorkSafe received in excess of 20 notifications of fires in vehicles and other mobile plant. The incidents have occurred throughout the Territory, with the bulk of incidences occurring in the mining industry. The majority of the fires have been attributed to component failure and/or inadequate maintenance.
Contributing factors
– Inadequate scope and/or scheduling of maintenance and inspection of vehicles and plant.
– Hydraulic oil contact with hot engine areas.
– Poor maintenance leading to a buildup of combustible material (lubricant and fuels) near
heat or ignition sources.
– Ineffective isolation of ignition sources such as battery terminals.
Action required
Recommended control measures to prevent similar incidents occurring include:
– Systematic inspection of all components within a hydraulic or fuel supply circuit during outine part replacements.
– Proactively monitoring of hydraulic hoses including checks on hose connections, clamps and pressure relief valves.
– Adopt a risk based hydraulic hose management system.
– Verify internal maintenance systems with additional quality checks by manufacturers or
authorised service providers.
– Evaluate isolation techniques such as shielding for potential engine heat sources or insulation of hoses near hot components.
– Routine inspection of electrical systems for corrosion or insulation fatigue.
– Consider the location and rating of protective devices such as fuses and wiring control.
– Install, maintain and systematically inspect fire detection and automatic fire suppression
systems on vehicles or plant operating at a higher risk of fire.
– Install portable fire extinguishers on all mobile plant.
– Provide appropriate training to all mobile plant staff on hydraulic hazards, fire detection and response procedures.
Further information
Australian Standard
– AS 5062 – 2006 Fire Protection for Mobile and Transportable Equipment.
