BALFOUR BEATTY – FAST FACTS – ISMS 668017 – RAIL SYSTEMS – BECKTON – VEHICLE FIRE
BRIEF DESCRIPTION:
Two operatives were cleaning the interior of a Ford Transit, when a fire erupted from the interior of the vehicle.
FULL DESCRIPTION:
Two operatives were tasked with cleaning the interior of a Ford Transit Flatbed in readiness for the vehicle to be off-hired.
During the activity, a fire broke out from vicinity of driver’s area. The operatives attempted to put out the fire using nearby fire extinguishers before reporting the incident. No injuries sustained.
The fire brigade were called, who confirmed that the fire was still alight and extinguished the fire. They also disconnected the mains battery which was located underneath the driver’s seat.
On making the vehicle safe, the fire brigade found a damaged 750ml linemarker pressurised paint canister thought to be the fuel source of the fire. Although the actual source of ignition is still being investigated.
CCTV footage was later acquired which captured the full extent of the incident and subsequent escalation to a High-Potential event.
IMMEDIATE ACTIONS TAKEN AND LESSONS LEARNED
Immediate Actions:
- Vehicle was quarantined before being collected and taken away for examination. Investigation ongoing
Initial Learnings:
- Appropriate controls in place for the safe storage of flammable aerosols and liquids Importance of following emergency fire plan – not placing self or others in position of danger
