Bulletin No.: 05/1999

Date (Y-M-D): 1999-04-29
 

Subject: Changeover Valves on Fuel System

The purpose of this bulletin is to make mariners aware of the inherent risk associated with fuel changeover valves.

An incident took place aboard a Canadian registered vessel, in which the vessel grounded because of the shut down of its engines due to fuel starvation. In the process of using the changeover valve to change fuel, a crew member inadvertently turned the valve to the fuel shut-off position.

It is very important that all engine room personnel have sufficient training and be familiar with systems where improper operation could affect the safety of the ship.

In view of this incident and as a result of the investigation, all vessel operator/owners and onboard personnel should be aware of the following:

1. Changeover valves should clearly indicate the valve position, e.g. feed 1, feed 2 and off.
2. Changeover operation should be monitored to ensure competency by operator.
3. Monitoring of engines performance after changeover should be done for 15 to 30 min.
4. Familiarization training of all systems to ensure competent performance is paramount.

To add or change your address, contact us at: marinesafety@tc.gc.ca

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