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[ "Maintenance and operational safety play an important role in the overall safety of the main switchboard. ELECTRICAL FIRE SAFETY: The root cause of any electrical fire is the insulation of the circuit or wire. If the insulation is weak or damaged, it may lead to spark, electrical shock, or fire in the system causing major accidents and casualties. The best way to avoid electrical fire is to maintain the insulation of electrical wires and equipment. The insulation of the electric cable is generally made up of rubber or plastic. The amount of smoke generated by the plastic in case of fire is dependent on factors such as the nature of plastic, type of additive used, flame of fire, and ventilation arrangements.Steps to Minimize the Risk of an Electrical Shock: Start with the first round of the day; check all electrical motors, wiring, and switches, for abnormal sounds, variation in temperatures, and loose connections. Ensure that all electrical connections are inside the panel box so that no one can touch them accidentally. In accommodation areas, multiple socket plugs shouldn’t be used. Turn off the breaker before starting any work on an electrical system. Use ply cards and notice boards as much as possible to inform others about the ongoing work to avoid accidental 'starts'. Double check electrical tools such as portable drills for any loose wires before attempting any job.ELECTRICAL SAFETY: Electrical equipment systems on ships are extremely hazardous and seafarers must take special care while handling them. Personal safety is of utmost importance while dealing with electrical systems on ships. Electrical Shock: When we talk about accidents on a ship, an electrical shock is the worst of all kinds. Electrical wires and connections are present everywhere on a ship and it is important to prevent yourself and others from getting a major electrical shock.Important Precautions for Installation of Electric Cables: The cables and wiring external to the equipment must have flame retardant properties and should be installed in such a manner that it should not interfere with the original flame-retarding properties. Cables and wirings for emergency equipment, lightings, communication, and signals should be kept away from spaces such as galley, laundries, machinery space of category A, and other high-risk areas. Special precautions are to be taken for cable installation in hazardous areas as it might lead to explosion in case of electrical fault. Terminations and joints are to be made in such a manner that they should retain their original fire-resisting properties. Avoid cable damage and chaffing during installation. Fireproof glands are to be used in case of cables passing through the bulkhead to prevent fire from one compartment to another." ]

[ "BLACKOUT SITUATION: Blackout is one condition each and every mariner is familiar with and also afraid of. It is one situation everyone on the ship is terrified of as it brings the whole ship and its operations to a standstill. Understanding Blackout Condition: Blackout condition is a scenario on a ship, wherein the main propulsion plant and associated machinery such as boiler, purifier, and other auxiliaries stop operating due to failure of the power generation system of the ship – Generator and alternator. With advanced technologies and automation, preventive measures are provided to avoid such blackout situations by means of auto load sharing system and auto standby system, in which the generator set that is running in parallel or standby comes on load automatically when the running diesel generator fails.What to Do in Case of a Blackout? In case of a blackout, the following precautions and actions should be taken: Never panic in such situations, be calm and composed. The emergency generator will restore the power in no time. Inform officer on bridge briefly about the condition. Call for manpower and inform the chief engineer. If the main propulsion plant is running, bring the fuel lever to zero position. Close the feed of the running purifier to avoid overflow and wastage of fuel. If the auxiliary boiler was running, shut the main steam stop valve to maintain the steam pressure. Find out the problem and reason for blackout and rectify the same. Before starting the generator set, start the pre-lubrication priming pump if the supply for the same is given from the emergency generator; if not, then use the manual priming handle (provided in some generators). Start the generator and take it on load. Then immediately start the main engine lube oil pump and main engine jacket water pump. Reset breakers and start all the other required machinery and systems. Reset breakers that are included in the preferential tripping sequence (Non-essential machinery). Seafarers require both skills and patience to tackle a situation like a blackout, especially when the vessel is sailing or maneuvering. However, the best way to tackle such situations is to be calm and composed, and to know your engine room and machinery very well in advance.MAIN AND EMERGENCY SWITCHBOARD SAFETY: It is very important to isolate any type of fault in an electrical system supplied from the main switchboard (MSB), or else it will affect all the other systems connected to the same. If such isolation is not provided, then a short circuit in even a smaller system can cause a blackout of the whole ship. The main switchboard is an intermediate installation in the ship’s power distribution circuit, connecting the power generators and power consumers. The power generators on ships are auxiliary engines with alternators, and the different engine room machineries such as motors, blowers, etc., are the consumers.When the bus bar maintenance should be done? Busbar maintenance can be done when the ship is in blackout condition, i.e., ship’s generators are not running and no power is supplied to main or emergency switchboards. If the main switchboard busbars are to be inspected or to be worked on, keep the emergency generator running. Keep in mind that there will be some portion of the main switchboard, which will be fed by the emergency switchboard. Hence know the complete system properly and keep away from those areas. The best time to do bus bar maintenance is when the ship is in the dry dock." ]

[ "POWER GENERATION ON SHIPS: A ship is equivalent to a floating city that enjoys almost all privileges available to any operational set-up on land. Just like any conventional city, the ship also requires the basic amenities to sustain life on board, the chief among them being power or electricity. Electricity on ships is generated by an alternator or generator. Shipboard power is generated when a prime mover and alternator work together. For this purpose, an alternating current generator is used on board. The generator works on the principle that as a magnetic field rotating around a conductor varies, a current is induced in the conductor.The generator consists of a stationary set of conductors, wound in coils of iron core also known as the stator. A rotating magnet known as rotor turns inside this stator, producing a magnetic field, which cuts across the conductor and generates an induced EMF or electro-magnetic force as the mechanical input causes the rotor to turn. The magnetic field is generated by induction (in a brushless alternator) and by a rotor winding energized by DC current through slip rings and brushes. Few points that are to be noted about power generated on board ships: AC, 3-phase power is preferred over DC as it gives more power for the same size. 3-phase is preferred over single phase as it draws more power and in the event of failure of one phase, other 2 can continue working.Electrical Propulsion System: The conventional propulsion system of ships is efficient but requires high operating costs and increases marine pollution. Among all prospective alternate power sources for ships, electrical propulsion system is one of the most promising alternatives in today’s time. By increasing the cross-sectional area of the conductor (diameter), the resistance of the conductor and the power loss can be reduced. But this involves a huge increase in costs and size/weight of cables, requiring additional supports. This method is therefore not used to reduce the power loss during transmission and utilization.Power Distribution on Ships: The ship’s power distribution system consists of different components for distribution and safe operation of the system. The main components of this system are: Ship’s generator - consists of prime mover and alternator; Main switchboard - a metal enclosure taking power from the diesel generator and supplying it to different machinery systems; Bus bars - act as power carriers and allow transfer of load from one point to another; Circuit breakers - act as a switch, and in unsafe conditions can be tripped to avoid breakdown and accidents; Fuses - safety devices for machinery; Transformers - to step up or step down the voltage. When supply is to be given to the lighting system, a step down transformer is used in the distribution system." ]

[ "Alternator Maintenance on Ships: An alternator is an electro-mechanical device comprising of stator, rotor winding, and an external exciter for supplying excitation voltage. Alternator generates electricity when coupled with a prime mover. Once the inspection and maintenance are completed: Close the bus bar access doors. Remove the lock out tag. Restore the main power supply by the generator. Alternator on a ship is exposed to harsh weather and sea conditions, due to which its capacity and efficiency tend to reduce. It is very important to have proper maintenance on the alternator part of the generator as per planned maintenance or as and when required.POWER GENERATION ON SHIPS: A ship is equivalent to a floating city that enjoys almost all privileges available to any operational set-up on land. Just like any conventional city, the ship also requires the basic amenities to sustain life on board, the chief among them being power or electricity. Electricity on ships is generated by an alternator or generator. Shipboard power is generated when a prime mover and alternator work together. For this purpose, an alternating current generator is used on board. The generator works on the principle that as a magnetic field rotating around a conductor varies, a current is induced in the conductor.Power Distribution on Ships: The ship’s power distribution system consists of different components for distribution and safe operation of the system. The main components of this system are: Ship’s generator - consists of prime mover and alternator; Main switchboard - a metal enclosure taking power from the diesel generator and supplying it to different machinery systems; Bus bars - act as power carriers and allow transfer of load from one point to another; Circuit breakers - act as a switch, and in unsafe conditions can be tripped to avoid breakdown and accidents; Fuses - safety devices for machinery; Transformers - to step up or step down the voltage. When supply is to be given to the lighting system, a step down transformer is used in the distribution system.The generator consists of a stationary set of conductors, wound in coils of iron core also known as the stator. A rotating magnet known as rotor turns inside this stator, producing a magnetic field, which cuts across the conductor and generates an induced EMF or electro-magnetic force as the mechanical input causes the rotor to turn. The magnetic field is generated by induction (in a brushless alternator) and by a rotor winding energized by DC current through slip rings and brushes. Few points that are to be noted about power generated on board ships: AC, 3-phase power is preferred over DC as it gives more power for the same size. 3-phase is preferred over single phase as it draws more power and in the event of failure of one phase, other 2 can continue working." ]

[ "The generator consists of a stationary set of conductors, wound in coils of iron core also known as the stator. A rotating magnet known as rotor turns inside this stator, producing a magnetic field, which cuts across the conductor and generates an induced EMF or electro-magnetic force as the mechanical input causes the rotor to turn. The magnetic field is generated by induction (in a brushless alternator) and by a rotor winding energized by DC current through slip rings and brushes. Few points that are to be noted about power generated on board ships: AC, 3-phase power is preferred over DC as it gives more power for the same size. 3-phase is preferred over single phase as it draws more power and in the event of failure of one phase, other 2 can continue working.Usually a 3-phase, 60Hz, 440 Volts supply is generated and distributed on board ships. As the ship size increases, there is a need to install more powerful engines and other machinery systems. This increase in size of equipment demands more electrical power and higher voltages. Any voltage used on ship, if less than 1kV (1000 V) is called as LV (Low Voltage) system and any voltage above 1kV is termed as high voltage system. Typical Marine HV systems usually operate at 3.3 kV or 6.6 kV. Passenger liners such as QE2 operate at 10kV.In a power distribution system, the voltage at which the ship’s electrical system works is usually 440v. However, there are some large installations wherein the voltage is as high as 6600v. Power on ships is supplied through circuit breakers to large auxiliary machinery at high voltage. For smaller supply, fuse and miniature circuit breakers are used. The power distribution system, consisting of three wires, can be neutrally insulated or earthed. Insulated system is more preferred as compared to earthed system, as during an earth fault essential machinery such as steering gear can be lost.Disadvantages of this system: The efficiency of the electrical plant is less than that of conventional systems. The installation cost of the electrical propulsion plant is much higher. Improvised training for ship’s crew is required as the system is completely different from the mechanical system and involves major automation. From a long-term perspective, electric propulsion systems are promising power sources for ships, considering their high efficiency and stringent marine environmental norms." ]

[ "The generator consists of a stationary set of conductors, wound in coils of iron core also known as the stator. A rotating magnet known as rotor turns inside this stator, producing a magnetic field, which cuts across the conductor and generates an induced EMF or electro-magnetic force as the mechanical input causes the rotor to turn. The magnetic field is generated by induction (in a brushless alternator) and by a rotor winding energized by DC current through slip rings and brushes. Few points that are to be noted about power generated on board ships: AC, 3-phase power is preferred over DC as it gives more power for the same size. 3-phase is preferred over single phase as it draws more power and in the event of failure of one phase, other 2 can continue working.POWER GENERATION ON SHIPS: A ship is equivalent to a floating city that enjoys almost all privileges available to any operational set-up on land. Just like any conventional city, the ship also requires the basic amenities to sustain life on board, the chief among them being power or electricity. Electricity on ships is generated by an alternator or generator. Shipboard power is generated when a prime mover and alternator work together. For this purpose, an alternating current generator is used on board. The generator works on the principle that as a magnetic field rotating around a conductor varies, a current is induced in the conductor.Alternator Maintenance on Ships: An alternator is an electro-mechanical device comprising of stator, rotor winding, and an external exciter for supplying excitation voltage. Alternator generates electricity when coupled with a prime mover. Once the inspection and maintenance are completed: Close the bus bar access doors. Remove the lock out tag. Restore the main power supply by the generator. Alternator on a ship is exposed to harsh weather and sea conditions, due to which its capacity and efficiency tend to reduce. It is very important to have proper maintenance on the alternator part of the generator as per planned maintenance or as and when required.Electrical Motor Overhauling on Ships: Most of the motors in the ship’s engine room are continuous running motors connected to a pump or compressor or some other machinery. In motor construction, the air gap between the stator and the rotor is very less. If there is a little deviation in the shaft rotation, the rotor will slowly start touching the stator (In this condition, you can feel much more vibrations in the motor), which can lead to short circuit and burning of windings. The scheduled maintenance of motor should be carried out in such a way that the motor does not reach this stage. Thus, proper overhauling of the motor is of great importance." ]

[ "Power Distribution on Ships: The ship’s power distribution system consists of different components for distribution and safe operation of the system. The main components of this system are: Ship’s generator - consists of prime mover and alternator; Main switchboard - a metal enclosure taking power from the diesel generator and supplying it to different machinery systems; Bus bars - act as power carriers and allow transfer of load from one point to another; Circuit breakers - act as a switch, and in unsafe conditions can be tripped to avoid breakdown and accidents; Fuses - safety devices for machinery; Transformers - to step up or step down the voltage. When supply is to be given to the lighting system, a step down transformer is used in the distribution system.In a power distribution system, the voltage at which the ship’s electrical system works is usually 440v. However, there are some large installations wherein the voltage is as high as 6600v. Power on ships is supplied through circuit breakers to large auxiliary machinery at high voltage. For smaller supply, fuse and miniature circuit breakers are used. The power distribution system, consisting of three wires, can be neutrally insulated or earthed. Insulated system is more preferred as compared to earthed system, as during an earth fault essential machinery such as steering gear can be lost.Emergency Power Supply: In case of failure of the ship’s main power generation system, an emergency power system or a standby system is used. The emergency power supply ensures that the essential machinery systems continue to operate the ship. Batteries or an emergency generator or even both can supply emergency power on ships. Ratings of the emergency power supply should be such that it is able to support all essential systems such as: Steering gear system, Emergency bilge and fire pumps, Watertight doors, Fire fighting system, Ship’s navigation lights and emergency lights, Communication and alarm systems.MAIN AND EMERGENCY SWITCHBOARD SAFETY: It is very important to isolate any type of fault in an electrical system supplied from the main switchboard (MSB), or else it will affect all the other systems connected to the same. If such isolation is not provided, then a short circuit in even a smaller system can cause a blackout of the whole ship. The main switchboard is an intermediate installation in the ship’s power distribution circuit, connecting the power generators and power consumers. The power generators on ships are auxiliary engines with alternators, and the different engine room machineries such as motors, blowers, etc., are the consumers." ]

[ "MAIN AND EMERGENCY SWITCHBOARD SAFETY: It is very important to isolate any type of fault in an electrical system supplied from the main switchboard (MSB), or else it will affect all the other systems connected to the same. If such isolation is not provided, then a short circuit in even a smaller system can cause a blackout of the whole ship. The main switchboard is an intermediate installation in the ship’s power distribution circuit, connecting the power generators and power consumers. The power generators on ships are auxiliary engines with alternators, and the different engine room machineries such as motors, blowers, etc., are the consumers.Variety of safety devices are used on board ships and installed on the main switchboard (MSB) and electrical distribution panels. This ensures safe and efficient running of machinery systems and safety of the seafarers from electric shocks. The Important safety devices fitted on the main switchboard are: Circuit breakers: A circuit breaker is an auto shut down device, which activates during an abnormality in the electrical circuit. Especially during overloading or short circuit, the circuit breaker opens the supplied circuit from MSB and protects the same. Different circuit breakers are strategically installed at various locations on the ship.Safety before doing bus bar maintenance: Put the 'lockout' tag in all generators and in the emergency generator. Keep all the generator system including load dependent start stop system in manual mode. Ensure to wear rubber gloves even when the board is not in 'Live' condition. Wear all required personal protective equipment (PPEs) when working on the switchboard. If the ship is in complete blackout situation, ensure that before cleaning the main and emergency switchboard, the area is well lit by sufficient lights. In dry dock, same can be arranged from shore workshop.Power Distribution on Ships: The ship’s power distribution system consists of different components for distribution and safe operation of the system. The main components of this system are: Ship’s generator - consists of prime mover and alternator; Main switchboard - a metal enclosure taking power from the diesel generator and supplying it to different machinery systems; Bus bars - act as power carriers and allow transfer of load from one point to another; Circuit breakers - act as a switch, and in unsafe conditions can be tripped to avoid breakdown and accidents; Fuses - safety devices for machinery; Transformers - to step up or step down the voltage. When supply is to be given to the lighting system, a step down transformer is used in the distribution system." ]

[ "Busbar Maintenance on Ships: A busbar is a copper plate/bar, which is used in ship’s main and emergency switchboards to conduct electricity from generators or from one electrical terminal to another. Technically, there are no electrical wire connections inside the main and emergency switchboards on ships for connecting power supply from generators to these switchboards. All high voltage and high current systems are connected by bus bars. The busbar’s copper plates/bars are connected together with the help of nut bolts, which transmit electricity as required. During normal ship operations, the busbar connections are subjected to ship’s harsh environment along with the vibrations generated by the ship and ship machinery such as main engine, auxiliary engines, compressors, etc.Power Distribution on Ships: The ship’s power distribution system consists of different components for distribution and safe operation of the system. The main components of this system are: Ship’s generator - consists of prime mover and alternator; Main switchboard - a metal enclosure taking power from the diesel generator and supplying it to different machinery systems; Bus bars - act as power carriers and allow transfer of load from one point to another; Circuit breakers - act as a switch, and in unsafe conditions can be tripped to avoid breakdown and accidents; Fuses - safety devices for machinery; Transformers - to step up or step down the voltage. When supply is to be given to the lighting system, a step down transformer is used in the distribution system.In a power distribution system, the voltage at which the ship’s electrical system works is usually 440v. However, there are some large installations wherein the voltage is as high as 6600v. Power on ships is supplied through circuit breakers to large auxiliary machinery at high voltage. For smaller supply, fuse and miniature circuit breakers are used. The power distribution system, consisting of three wires, can be neutrally insulated or earthed. Insulated system is more preferred as compared to earthed system, as during an earth fault essential machinery such as steering gear can be lost.MAIN AND EMERGENCY SWITCHBOARD SAFETY: It is very important to isolate any type of fault in an electrical system supplied from the main switchboard (MSB), or else it will affect all the other systems connected to the same. If such isolation is not provided, then a short circuit in even a smaller system can cause a blackout of the whole ship. The main switchboard is an intermediate installation in the ship’s power distribution circuit, connecting the power generators and power consumers. The power generators on ships are auxiliary engines with alternators, and the different engine room machineries such as motors, blowers, etc., are the consumers." ]

[ "Power Distribution on Ships: The ship’s power distribution system consists of different components for distribution and safe operation of the system. The main components of this system are: Ship’s generator - consists of prime mover and alternator; Main switchboard - a metal enclosure taking power from the diesel generator and supplying it to different machinery systems; Bus bars - act as power carriers and allow transfer of load from one point to another; Circuit breakers - act as a switch, and in unsafe conditions can be tripped to avoid breakdown and accidents; Fuses - safety devices for machinery; Transformers - to step up or step down the voltage. When supply is to be given to the lighting system, a step down transformer is used in the distribution system.In a power distribution system, the voltage at which the ship’s electrical system works is usually 440v. However, there are some large installations wherein the voltage is as high as 6600v. Power on ships is supplied through circuit breakers to large auxiliary machinery at high voltage. For smaller supply, fuse and miniature circuit breakers are used. The power distribution system, consisting of three wires, can be neutrally insulated or earthed. Insulated system is more preferred as compared to earthed system, as during an earth fault essential machinery such as steering gear can be lost.Usually a 3-phase, 60Hz, 440 Volts supply is generated and distributed on board ships. As the ship size increases, there is a need to install more powerful engines and other machinery systems. This increase in size of equipment demands more electrical power and higher voltages. Any voltage used on ship, if less than 1kV (1000 V) is called as LV (Low Voltage) system and any voltage above 1kV is termed as high voltage system. Typical Marine HV systems usually operate at 3.3 kV or 6.6 kV. Passenger liners such as QE2 operate at 10kV.Applications: Though electrical propulsion is normally used for smaller vessels, shipping companies are now adopting this system for big size cargo vessels as well. Electrical propulsion is fitted in: Tugs and trawlers, Dredgers, Dynamic positioning vessels, Cable laying ships, Ice breakers, Research ships, Floating cranes, Offshore Vessels." ]

[ "In a power distribution system, the voltage at which the ship’s electrical system works is usually 440v. However, there are some large installations wherein the voltage is as high as 6600v. Power on ships is supplied through circuit breakers to large auxiliary machinery at high voltage. For smaller supply, fuse and miniature circuit breakers are used. The power distribution system, consisting of three wires, can be neutrally insulated or earthed. Insulated system is more preferred as compared to earthed system, as during an earth fault essential machinery such as steering gear can be lost.Disadvantages of this system: The efficiency of the electrical plant is less than that of conventional systems. The installation cost of the electrical propulsion plant is much higher. Improvised training for ship’s crew is required as the system is completely different from the mechanical system and involves major automation. From a long-term perspective, electric propulsion systems are promising power sources for ships, considering their high efficiency and stringent marine environmental norms.ELECTRICAL MAINTENANCE: Earth Fault on Ships: Earth fault is considered very critical on board a ship. Some ships, which operate at 440 V do not have any trip devices attached for a single earth fault. However, when the operating voltage exceeds 3000V, it is mandatory to have a protection system that isolates when ship machinery suffers an earth fault. The seriousness of the action to be taken on an Earth Fault depends on the part of the electrical system it affects. Conventional ships which operate on 3 Phase, 440V, have earth fault indicators installed on all three phases.The non-essential circuits or loads on ships are air conditioning, exhaust and ventilation fans, and galley equipment, which can be disconnected momentarily and can be connected again after fault finding. The main advantage of preferential trip is that it helps in preventing the operation of main circuit breaker trip and loss of power on essential services, thus blocking blackout and overloading of generators." ]

[ "ELECTRICAL MAINTENANCE: Earth Fault on Ships: Earth fault is considered very critical on board a ship. Some ships, which operate at 440 V do not have any trip devices attached for a single earth fault. However, when the operating voltage exceeds 3000V, it is mandatory to have a protection system that isolates when ship machinery suffers an earth fault. The seriousness of the action to be taken on an Earth Fault depends on the part of the electrical system it affects. Conventional ships which operate on 3 Phase, 440V, have earth fault indicators installed on all three phases.If the ship is having IAS (Integrated Automation System), check on the computer in the list of events, after which the alarm has activated. If IAS facility is not available, there is only one option left i.e. isolating each and every machinery system in the 440 V circuit. When this is done, check for which machinery the earth fault indication returns back to normal. Isolation of all machinery, which operates on 440V is not always possible. Certain critical equipment like steering gear and lubricating oil pumps cannot be isolated when the ship is underway. However, changeover can be done from running machinery to the standby one and the earth fault can be found.Knowing earth fault monitor. The earth fault monitor, which can either be a set of three indicator lamps with a gauge or an instrument calibrated in mega ohms or kilo ohms, is used to show the system's insulation resistance (IR) value to earth faults. These monitors are installed in the ship's engine room control panel, allowing engineers to easily observe their condition. When an earth fault occurs on any of the three-phase conductors, the lamp on the affected phase will dim, while the lamps on the other two phases will become brighter due to higher voltage. If a gauge indicator is present, it will show a value close to zero (red scale).ELECTRICAL SAFETY: Electrical equipment systems on ships are extremely hazardous and seafarers must take special care while handling them. Personal safety is of utmost importance while dealing with electrical systems on ships. Electrical Shock: When we talk about accidents on a ship, an electrical shock is the worst of all kinds. Electrical wires and connections are present everywhere on a ship and it is important to prevent yourself and others from getting a major electrical shock." ]

[ "Emergency Power Supply: In case of failure of the ship’s main power generation system, an emergency power system or a standby system is used. The emergency power supply ensures that the essential machinery systems continue to operate the ship. Batteries or an emergency generator or even both can supply emergency power on ships. Ratings of the emergency power supply should be such that it is able to support all essential systems such as: Steering gear system, Emergency bilge and fire pumps, Watertight doors, Fire fighting system, Ship’s navigation lights and emergency lights, Communication and alarm systems.MAIN AND EMERGENCY SWITCHBOARD SAFETY: It is very important to isolate any type of fault in an electrical system supplied from the main switchboard (MSB), or else it will affect all the other systems connected to the same. If such isolation is not provided, then a short circuit in even a smaller system can cause a blackout of the whole ship. The main switchboard is an intermediate installation in the ship’s power distribution circuit, connecting the power generators and power consumers. The power generators on ships are auxiliary engines with alternators, and the different engine room machineries such as motors, blowers, etc., are the consumers.Power Distribution on Ships: The ship’s power distribution system consists of different components for distribution and safe operation of the system. The main components of this system are: Ship’s generator - consists of prime mover and alternator; Main switchboard - a metal enclosure taking power from the diesel generator and supplying it to different machinery systems; Bus bars - act as power carriers and allow transfer of load from one point to another; Circuit breakers - act as a switch, and in unsafe conditions can be tripped to avoid breakdown and accidents; Fuses - safety devices for machinery; Transformers - to step up or step down the voltage. When supply is to be given to the lighting system, a step down transformer is used in the distribution system.POWER GENERATION ON SHIPS: A ship is equivalent to a floating city that enjoys almost all privileges available to any operational set-up on land. Just like any conventional city, the ship also requires the basic amenities to sustain life on board, the chief among them being power or electricity. Electricity on ships is generated by an alternator or generator. Shipboard power is generated when a prime mover and alternator work together. For this purpose, an alternating current generator is used on board. The generator works on the principle that as a magnetic field rotating around a conductor varies, a current is induced in the conductor." ]

[ "Emergency Power Supply: In case of failure of the ship’s main power generation system, an emergency power system or a standby system is used. The emergency power supply ensures that the essential machinery systems continue to operate the ship. Batteries or an emergency generator or even both can supply emergency power on ships. Ratings of the emergency power supply should be such that it is able to support all essential systems such as: Steering gear system, Emergency bilge and fire pumps, Watertight doors, Fire fighting system, Ship’s navigation lights and emergency lights, Communication and alarm systems.MAIN AND EMERGENCY SWITCHBOARD SAFETY: It is very important to isolate any type of fault in an electrical system supplied from the main switchboard (MSB), or else it will affect all the other systems connected to the same. If such isolation is not provided, then a short circuit in even a smaller system can cause a blackout of the whole ship. The main switchboard is an intermediate installation in the ship’s power distribution circuit, connecting the power generators and power consumers. The power generators on ships are auxiliary engines with alternators, and the different engine room machineries such as motors, blowers, etc., are the consumers.What to Do in Case of a Blackout? In case of a blackout, the following precautions and actions should be taken: Never panic in such situations, be calm and composed. The emergency generator will restore the power in no time. Inform officer on bridge briefly about the condition. Call for manpower and inform the chief engineer. If the main propulsion plant is running, bring the fuel lever to zero position. Close the feed of the running purifier to avoid overflow and wastage of fuel. If the auxiliary boiler was running, shut the main steam stop valve to maintain the steam pressure. Find out the problem and reason for blackout and rectify the same. Before starting the generator set, start the pre-lubrication priming pump if the supply for the same is given from the emergency generator; if not, then use the manual priming handle (provided in some generators). Start the generator and take it on load. Then immediately start the main engine lube oil pump and main engine jacket water pump. Reset breakers and start all the other required machinery and systems. Reset breakers that are included in the preferential tripping sequence (Non-essential machinery). Seafarers require both skills and patience to tackle a situation like a blackout, especially when the vessel is sailing or maneuvering. However, the best way to tackle such situations is to be calm and composed, and to know your engine room and machinery very well in advance.Power Distribution on Ships: The ship’s power distribution system consists of different components for distribution and safe operation of the system. The main components of this system are: Ship’s generator - consists of prime mover and alternator; Main switchboard - a metal enclosure taking power from the diesel generator and supplying it to different machinery systems; Bus bars - act as power carriers and allow transfer of load from one point to another; Circuit breakers - act as a switch, and in unsafe conditions can be tripped to avoid breakdown and accidents; Fuses - safety devices for machinery; Transformers - to step up or step down the voltage. When supply is to be given to the lighting system, a step down transformer is used in the distribution system." ]

[ "Emergency Power Supply: In case of failure of the ship’s main power generation system, an emergency power system or a standby system is used. The emergency power supply ensures that the essential machinery systems continue to operate the ship. Batteries or an emergency generator or even both can supply emergency power on ships. Ratings of the emergency power supply should be such that it is able to support all essential systems such as: Steering gear system, Emergency bilge and fire pumps, Watertight doors, Fire fighting system, Ship’s navigation lights and emergency lights, Communication and alarm systems.Power Distribution on Ships: The ship’s power distribution system consists of different components for distribution and safe operation of the system. The main components of this system are: Ship’s generator - consists of prime mover and alternator; Main switchboard - a metal enclosure taking power from the diesel generator and supplying it to different machinery systems; Bus bars - act as power carriers and allow transfer of load from one point to another; Circuit breakers - act as a switch, and in unsafe conditions can be tripped to avoid breakdown and accidents; Fuses - safety devices for machinery; Transformers - to step up or step down the voltage. When supply is to be given to the lighting system, a step down transformer is used in the distribution system.POWER GENERATION ON SHIPS: A ship is equivalent to a floating city that enjoys almost all privileges available to any operational set-up on land. Just like any conventional city, the ship also requires the basic amenities to sustain life on board, the chief among them being power or electricity. Electricity on ships is generated by an alternator or generator. Shipboard power is generated when a prime mover and alternator work together. For this purpose, an alternating current generator is used on board. The generator works on the principle that as a magnetic field rotating around a conductor varies, a current is induced in the conductor.Electrical Propulsion System: The conventional propulsion system of ships is efficient but requires high operating costs and increases marine pollution. Among all prospective alternate power sources for ships, electrical propulsion system is one of the most promising alternatives in today’s time. By increasing the cross-sectional area of the conductor (diameter), the resistance of the conductor and the power loss can be reduced. But this involves a huge increase in costs and size/weight of cables, requiring additional supports. This method is therefore not used to reduce the power loss during transmission and utilization." ]

[ "Emergency Power Supply: In case of failure of the ship’s main power generation system, an emergency power system or a standby system is used. The emergency power supply ensures that the essential machinery systems continue to operate the ship. Batteries or an emergency generator or even both can supply emergency power on ships. Ratings of the emergency power supply should be such that it is able to support all essential systems such as: Steering gear system, Emergency bilge and fire pumps, Watertight doors, Fire fighting system, Ship’s navigation lights and emergency lights, Communication and alarm systems.Power Distribution on Ships: The ship’s power distribution system consists of different components for distribution and safe operation of the system. The main components of this system are: Ship’s generator - consists of prime mover and alternator; Main switchboard - a metal enclosure taking power from the diesel generator and supplying it to different machinery systems; Bus bars - act as power carriers and allow transfer of load from one point to another; Circuit breakers - act as a switch, and in unsafe conditions can be tripped to avoid breakdown and accidents; Fuses - safety devices for machinery; Transformers - to step up or step down the voltage. When supply is to be given to the lighting system, a step down transformer is used in the distribution system.MAIN AND EMERGENCY SWITCHBOARD SAFETY: It is very important to isolate any type of fault in an electrical system supplied from the main switchboard (MSB), or else it will affect all the other systems connected to the same. If such isolation is not provided, then a short circuit in even a smaller system can cause a blackout of the whole ship. The main switchboard is an intermediate installation in the ship’s power distribution circuit, connecting the power generators and power consumers. The power generators on ships are auxiliary engines with alternators, and the different engine room machineries such as motors, blowers, etc., are the consumers.In a power distribution system, the voltage at which the ship’s electrical system works is usually 440v. However, there are some large installations wherein the voltage is as high as 6600v. Power on ships is supplied through circuit breakers to large auxiliary machinery at high voltage. For smaller supply, fuse and miniature circuit breakers are used. The power distribution system, consisting of three wires, can be neutrally insulated or earthed. Insulated system is more preferred as compared to earthed system, as during an earth fault essential machinery such as steering gear can be lost." ]

[ "Usually a 3-phase, 60Hz, 440 Volts supply is generated and distributed on board ships. As the ship size increases, there is a need to install more powerful engines and other machinery systems. This increase in size of equipment demands more electrical power and higher voltages. Any voltage used on ship, if less than 1kV (1000 V) is called as LV (Low Voltage) system and any voltage above 1kV is termed as high voltage system. Typical Marine HV systems usually operate at 3.3 kV or 6.6 kV. Passenger liners such as QE2 operate at 10kV.Why High Voltage on Ships? Let us assume that a ship generates 8MW of power at 440V, from 4 diesel generator sets of 2MW, 0.8 power factors each. Each generator feeder cable and circuit breaker has to handle a full-load current of: I = 2 * 10^6 / (√3 * 440 * 0.8) I = 3280.4 Amps (Approximately 3300 Amps). The protection devices such as circuit breaker should be rated at approximately 90kA for each feeder cable. Let us now calculate the current if the generated voltage is 6600Volts. It is not necessary to have a bigger size motor for high voltage systems. This means that the motor can be of a smaller size even if it’s designed for 6600 Volts as compared to that of 440Volts. Thus, most of the new ships are fitted with high voltage systems.HIGH VOLTAGE SYSTEMS ON SHIPS: As the ship’s size and capacity increase, bigger machinery/equipment are installed to ensure its operational efficiency; however, high voltage is used only for a few important machinery systems. The power loss varies square of the current carried by the conductor. If the supply voltage is 440V, then the current carried by the conductor is 0.002P, and if the voltage is raised to 6600V, then the current carried for the same power is (1.515 *(10^ -4)) * P. Thus it implies that the power loss is reduced by a greater extent if the voltage is stepped up. Also, it is always efficient to transmit power at a higher voltage. Conversely, reducing the resistance of the conductor can reduce the power loss.In a power distribution system, the voltage at which the ship’s electrical system works is usually 440v. However, there are some large installations wherein the voltage is as high as 6600v. Power on ships is supplied through circuit breakers to large auxiliary machinery at high voltage. For smaller supply, fuse and miniature circuit breakers are used. The power distribution system, consisting of three wires, can be neutrally insulated or earthed. Insulated system is more preferred as compared to earthed system, as during an earth fault essential machinery such as steering gear can be lost." ]

[ "Why High Voltage on Ships? Let us assume that a ship generates 8MW of power at 440V, from 4 diesel generator sets of 2MW, 0.8 power factors each. Each generator feeder cable and circuit breaker has to handle a full-load current of: I = 2 * 10^6 / (√3 * 440 * 0.8) I = 3280.4 Amps (Approximately 3300 Amps). The protection devices such as circuit breaker should be rated at approximately 90kA for each feeder cable. Let us now calculate the current if the generated voltage is 6600Volts. It is not necessary to have a bigger size motor for high voltage systems. This means that the motor can be of a smaller size even if it’s designed for 6600 Volts as compared to that of 440Volts. Thus, most of the new ships are fitted with high voltage systems.Usually a 3-phase, 60Hz, 440 Volts supply is generated and distributed on board ships. As the ship size increases, there is a need to install more powerful engines and other machinery systems. This increase in size of equipment demands more electrical power and higher voltages. Any voltage used on ship, if less than 1kV (1000 V) is called as LV (Low Voltage) system and any voltage above 1kV is termed as high voltage system. Typical Marine HV systems usually operate at 3.3 kV or 6.6 kV. Passenger liners such as QE2 operate at 10kV.HIGH VOLTAGE SYSTEMS ON SHIPS: As the ship’s size and capacity increase, bigger machinery/equipment are installed to ensure its operational efficiency; however, high voltage is used only for a few important machinery systems. The power loss varies square of the current carried by the conductor. If the supply voltage is 440V, then the current carried by the conductor is 0.002P, and if the voltage is raised to 6600V, then the current carried for the same power is (1.515 *(10^ -4)) * P. Thus it implies that the power loss is reduced by a greater extent if the voltage is stepped up. Also, it is always efficient to transmit power at a higher voltage. Conversely, reducing the resistance of the conductor can reduce the power loss.Electrical Motor Overhauling on Ships: Most of the motors in the ship’s engine room are continuous running motors connected to a pump or compressor or some other machinery. In motor construction, the air gap between the stator and the rotor is very less. If there is a little deviation in the shaft rotation, the rotor will slowly start touching the stator (In this condition, you can feel much more vibrations in the motor), which can lead to short circuit and burning of windings. The scheduled maintenance of motor should be carried out in such a way that the motor does not reach this stage. Thus, proper overhauling of the motor is of great importance." ]

[ "HIGH VOLTAGE SYSTEMS ON SHIPS: As the ship’s size and capacity increase, bigger machinery/equipment are installed to ensure its operational efficiency; however, high voltage is used only for a few important machinery systems. The power loss varies square of the current carried by the conductor. If the supply voltage is 440V, then the current carried by the conductor is 0.002P, and if the voltage is raised to 6600V, then the current carried for the same power is (1.515 *(10^ -4)) * P. Thus it implies that the power loss is reduced by a greater extent if the voltage is stepped up. Also, it is always efficient to transmit power at a higher voltage. Conversely, reducing the resistance of the conductor can reduce the power loss.Disadvantages of this system: The efficiency of the electrical plant is less than that of conventional systems. The installation cost of the electrical propulsion plant is much higher. Improvised training for ship’s crew is required as the system is completely different from the mechanical system and involves major automation. From a long-term perspective, electric propulsion systems are promising power sources for ships, considering their high efficiency and stringent marine environmental norms.Electrical Propulsion System: The conventional propulsion system of ships is efficient but requires high operating costs and increases marine pollution. Among all prospective alternate power sources for ships, electrical propulsion system is one of the most promising alternatives in today’s time. By increasing the cross-sectional area of the conductor (diameter), the resistance of the conductor and the power loss can be reduced. But this involves a huge increase in costs and size/weight of cables, requiring additional supports. This method is therefore not used to reduce the power loss during transmission and utilization.Usually a 3-phase, 60Hz, 440 Volts supply is generated and distributed on board ships. As the ship size increases, there is a need to install more powerful engines and other machinery systems. This increase in size of equipment demands more electrical power and higher voltages. Any voltage used on ship, if less than 1kV (1000 V) is called as LV (Low Voltage) system and any voltage above 1kV is termed as high voltage system. Typical Marine HV systems usually operate at 3.3 kV or 6.6 kV. Passenger liners such as QE2 operate at 10kV." ]

[ "HIGH VOLTAGE SYSTEMS ON SHIPS: As the ship’s size and capacity increase, bigger machinery/equipment are installed to ensure its operational efficiency; however, high voltage is used only for a few important machinery systems. The power loss varies square of the current carried by the conductor. If the supply voltage is 440V, then the current carried by the conductor is 0.002P, and if the voltage is raised to 6600V, then the current carried for the same power is (1.515 *(10^ -4)) * P. Thus it implies that the power loss is reduced by a greater extent if the voltage is stepped up. Also, it is always efficient to transmit power at a higher voltage. Conversely, reducing the resistance of the conductor can reduce the power loss.Usually a 3-phase, 60Hz, 440 Volts supply is generated and distributed on board ships. As the ship size increases, there is a need to install more powerful engines and other machinery systems. This increase in size of equipment demands more electrical power and higher voltages. Any voltage used on ship, if less than 1kV (1000 V) is called as LV (Low Voltage) system and any voltage above 1kV is termed as high voltage system. Typical Marine HV systems usually operate at 3.3 kV or 6.6 kV. Passenger liners such as QE2 operate at 10kV.In a power distribution system, the voltage at which the ship’s electrical system works is usually 440v. However, there are some large installations wherein the voltage is as high as 6600v. Power on ships is supplied through circuit breakers to large auxiliary machinery at high voltage. For smaller supply, fuse and miniature circuit breakers are used. The power distribution system, consisting of three wires, can be neutrally insulated or earthed. Insulated system is more preferred as compared to earthed system, as during an earth fault essential machinery such as steering gear can be lost.Why High Voltage on Ships? Let us assume that a ship generates 8MW of power at 440V, from 4 diesel generator sets of 2MW, 0.8 power factors each. Each generator feeder cable and circuit breaker has to handle a full-load current of: I = 2 * 10^6 / (√3 * 440 * 0.8) I = 3280.4 Amps (Approximately 3300 Amps). The protection devices such as circuit breaker should be rated at approximately 90kA for each feeder cable. Let us now calculate the current if the generated voltage is 6600Volts. It is not necessary to have a bigger size motor for high voltage systems. This means that the motor can be of a smaller size even if it’s designed for 6600 Volts as compared to that of 440Volts. Thus, most of the new ships are fitted with high voltage systems." ]

[ "Electrical Propulsion System: The conventional propulsion system of ships is efficient but requires high operating costs and increases marine pollution. Among all prospective alternate power sources for ships, electrical propulsion system is one of the most promising alternatives in today’s time. By increasing the cross-sectional area of the conductor (diameter), the resistance of the conductor and the power loss can be reduced. But this involves a huge increase in costs and size/weight of cables, requiring additional supports. This method is therefore not used to reduce the power loss during transmission and utilization.Disadvantages of this system: The efficiency of the electrical plant is less than that of conventional systems. The installation cost of the electrical propulsion plant is much higher. Improvised training for ship’s crew is required as the system is completely different from the mechanical system and involves major automation. From a long-term perspective, electric propulsion systems are promising power sources for ships, considering their high efficiency and stringent marine environmental norms.Advantages of electrical propulsion system are: A large amount of power is generated by the system and the excess power can be utilized by supplying it to cargo pumps, fire pumps, and other important auxiliary machinery. The space required for installation of electrical propulsion machinery is less and compact as compared to conventional systems. There is no direct connection of propeller shaft and prime mover and hence transmission of severe stresses such as torsional and vibration is reduced. There is more flexibility in installation of machinery. It provides improved maneuverability and high redundancy. Increased payload through flexible location of machinery components. Environmental benefits from lower fuel consumption and emissions. High performance in tough ice conditions due to maximum torque at zero speed. Reduces lifecycle cost by less fuel consumption and maintenance costs. Better comfort due to reduced vibration and noise.Applications: Though electrical propulsion is normally used for smaller vessels, shipping companies are now adopting this system for big size cargo vessels as well. Electrical propulsion is fitted in: Tugs and trawlers, Dredgers, Dynamic positioning vessels, Cable laying ships, Ice breakers, Research ships, Floating cranes, Offshore Vessels." ]

[ "HIGH VOLTAGE SYSTEMS ON SHIPS: As the ship’s size and capacity increase, bigger machinery/equipment are installed to ensure its operational efficiency; however, high voltage is used only for a few important machinery systems. The power loss varies square of the current carried by the conductor. If the supply voltage is 440V, then the current carried by the conductor is 0.002P, and if the voltage is raised to 6600V, then the current carried for the same power is (1.515 *(10^ -4)) * P. Thus it implies that the power loss is reduced by a greater extent if the voltage is stepped up. Also, it is always efficient to transmit power at a higher voltage. Conversely, reducing the resistance of the conductor can reduce the power loss.Electrical Propulsion System: The conventional propulsion system of ships is efficient but requires high operating costs and increases marine pollution. Among all prospective alternate power sources for ships, electrical propulsion system is one of the most promising alternatives in today’s time. By increasing the cross-sectional area of the conductor (diameter), the resistance of the conductor and the power loss can be reduced. But this involves a huge increase in costs and size/weight of cables, requiring additional supports. This method is therefore not used to reduce the power loss during transmission and utilization.Ways to Reduce these Hazards: The following steps should be taken as preventive measures: Cables having E.P.R (Ethylene Propylene Rubber) insulation with necessary sheathing of Poly Chloro Prene or Chloro Sulphonated Polyethylene (PCP or CSP) may be used to protect the insulation against fire. G.I armor may be used to protect insulation from fire but needs to be earthed. By using cables having a high oxygen index number, the number allotted to material depending on the minimum percentage of oxygen required to sustain combustion. If the material used is having an oxygen index number 27, it means that the minimum percentage of oxygen required to burn the material is 27% which is well above the normal atmospheric oxygen percentage of 21%. Thus, the insulation material will not catch fire.The generator consists of a stationary set of conductors, wound in coils of iron core also known as the stator. A rotating magnet known as rotor turns inside this stator, producing a magnetic field, which cuts across the conductor and generates an induced EMF or electro-magnetic force as the mechanical input causes the rotor to turn. The magnetic field is generated by induction (in a brushless alternator) and by a rotor winding energized by DC current through slip rings and brushes. Few points that are to be noted about power generated on board ships: AC, 3-phase power is preferred over DC as it gives more power for the same size. 3-phase is preferred over single phase as it draws more power and in the event of failure of one phase, other 2 can continue working." ]

[ "ELECTRICAL SAFETY: Electrical equipment systems on ships are extremely hazardous and seafarers must take special care while handling them. Personal safety is of utmost importance while dealing with electrical systems on ships. Electrical Shock: When we talk about accidents on a ship, an electrical shock is the worst of all kinds. Electrical wires and connections are present everywhere on a ship and it is important to prevent yourself and others from getting a major electrical shock.ELECTRICAL MAINTENANCE: Earth Fault on Ships: Earth fault is considered very critical on board a ship. Some ships, which operate at 440 V do not have any trip devices attached for a single earth fault. However, when the operating voltage exceeds 3000V, it is mandatory to have a protection system that isolates when ship machinery suffers an earth fault. The seriousness of the action to be taken on an Earth Fault depends on the part of the electrical system it affects. Conventional ships which operate on 3 Phase, 440V, have earth fault indicators installed on all three phases.If you don’t know about the system, ask for assistance. Don’t work without knowing the system. Always think first about your personal safety and the safety of fellow seafarers while carrying out any electrical work on board ships.Variety of safety devices are used on board ships and installed on the main switchboard (MSB) and electrical distribution panels. This ensures safe and efficient running of machinery systems and safety of the seafarers from electric shocks. The Important safety devices fitted on the main switchboard are: Circuit breakers: A circuit breaker is an auto shut down device, which activates during an abnormality in the electrical circuit. Especially during overloading or short circuit, the circuit breaker opens the supplied circuit from MSB and protects the same. Different circuit breakers are strategically installed at various locations on the ship." ]

[ "ELECTRICAL SAFETY: Electrical equipment systems on ships are extremely hazardous and seafarers must take special care while handling them. Personal safety is of utmost importance while dealing with electrical systems on ships. Electrical Shock: When we talk about accidents on a ship, an electrical shock is the worst of all kinds. Electrical wires and connections are present everywhere on a ship and it is important to prevent yourself and others from getting a major electrical shock.Steps to Minimize the Risk of an Electrical Shock: Start with the first round of the day; check all electrical motors, wiring, and switches, for abnormal sounds, variation in temperatures, and loose connections. Ensure that all electrical connections are inside the panel box so that no one can touch them accidentally. In accommodation areas, multiple socket plugs shouldn’t be used. Turn off the breaker before starting any work on an electrical system. Use ply cards and notice boards as much as possible to inform others about the ongoing work to avoid accidental 'starts'. Double check electrical tools such as portable drills for any loose wires before attempting any job.If you don’t know about the system, ask for assistance. Don’t work without knowing the system. Always think first about your personal safety and the safety of fellow seafarers while carrying out any electrical work on board ships.ELECTRICAL MAINTENANCE: Earth Fault on Ships: Earth fault is considered very critical on board a ship. Some ships, which operate at 440 V do not have any trip devices attached for a single earth fault. However, when the operating voltage exceeds 3000V, it is mandatory to have a protection system that isolates when ship machinery suffers an earth fault. The seriousness of the action to be taken on an Earth Fault depends on the part of the electrical system it affects. Conventional ships which operate on 3 Phase, 440V, have earth fault indicators installed on all three phases." ]

[ "Steps to Minimize the Risk of an Electrical Shock: Start with the first round of the day; check all electrical motors, wiring, and switches, for abnormal sounds, variation in temperatures, and loose connections. Ensure that all electrical connections are inside the panel box so that no one can touch them accidentally. In accommodation areas, multiple socket plugs shouldn’t be used. Turn off the breaker before starting any work on an electrical system. Use ply cards and notice boards as much as possible to inform others about the ongoing work to avoid accidental 'starts'. Double check electrical tools such as portable drills for any loose wires before attempting any job.Why Starter Panel Routines and Maintenance are Important? Every time we switch on the motor, the contacts in the panel get energized as electricity flows through the contacts (high current flows during starting). At the time of on/off of the switch, a spark is generated in the contacts for a fraction of seconds. In case of poor contacts, this spark will damage the same, leading to pitting/scoring marks in the contacts along with carbon deposits on the contact surface.Checking the terminal box of the motor: Motor is a dynamic machine, and thus there will always be vibrations. This leads to loose connections in the terminal box of the motor. Open the terminal box of the motor by loosening the nuts. Check the tightness of the connection by shaking the wires and use the correct size spanner to tighten the connections. If there are any loose connections, it will lead to sparks in the terminal box causing fire in the motor. Short circuit is also possible because of a loose connection. After the maintenance is done on the motor starter panel: Remove the lock out tag. Insert the main and control fuses in the starter panel. Switch on the main power supply from the circuit breaker. Inform the engineer who is in charge of that particular machinery. Start the machine and check the starter panel if there is any abnormal sound.Checking for Loose Connections: Inside the motor starter panels, checks should be carried out for loose connections to avoid short circuit, spark or accidents. Tighten the loose screws using a screw driver, if found any. Using your hand, try to pull out the wires slowly. If any wire comes out completely or more than it should, take it out and reconnect. Check the insulation of the connected wires, as because of aging and sparks there is a possibility of damage to the wires. Cleaning of the Starter Panel: The motor starter panel should always be maintained clean to reduce fire hazards. Clean the whole starter panel by a wet cloth and use brushes where hands cannot reach. A vacuum cleaner can be used to remove dust." ]

[ "Always wear protective clothing, rubber gloves, rubber kneepads, and safety shoes to avoid risk of shock. Use electrically insulated handle tools for working or checking electrical systems. Before working, remove jewelry, wristbands, and other conductive items. When working or removing multiple wires, tape off all but the one wire you are working on. Try as much as possible not to work on live systems and even if you do so, be a professional and work carefully, taking all necessary safety precautions and with utmost concentration. During working in a group or pair, organize a toolbox meeting and discuss the procedure, risk, and hazards of the job in hand.Steps to Minimize the Risk of an Electrical Shock: Start with the first round of the day; check all electrical motors, wiring, and switches, for abnormal sounds, variation in temperatures, and loose connections. Ensure that all electrical connections are inside the panel box so that no one can touch them accidentally. In accommodation areas, multiple socket plugs shouldn’t be used. Turn off the breaker before starting any work on an electrical system. Use ply cards and notice boards as much as possible to inform others about the ongoing work to avoid accidental 'starts'. Double check electrical tools such as portable drills for any loose wires before attempting any job.Important Precautions for Installation of Electric Cables: The cables and wiring external to the equipment must have flame retardant properties and should be installed in such a manner that it should not interfere with the original flame-retarding properties. Cables and wirings for emergency equipment, lightings, communication, and signals should be kept away from spaces such as galley, laundries, machinery space of category A, and other high-risk areas. Special precautions are to be taken for cable installation in hazardous areas as it might lead to explosion in case of electrical fault. Terminations and joints are to be made in such a manner that they should retain their original fire-resisting properties. Avoid cable damage and chaffing during installation. Fireproof glands are to be used in case of cables passing through the bulkhead to prevent fire from one compartment to another.Maintenance and operational safety play an important role in the overall safety of the main switchboard. ELECTRICAL FIRE SAFETY: The root cause of any electrical fire is the insulation of the circuit or wire. If the insulation is weak or damaged, it may lead to spark, electrical shock, or fire in the system causing major accidents and casualties. The best way to avoid electrical fire is to maintain the insulation of electrical wires and equipment. The insulation of the electric cable is generally made up of rubber or plastic. The amount of smoke generated by the plastic in case of fire is dependent on factors such as the nature of plastic, type of additive used, flame of fire, and ventilation arrangements." ]

[ "Steps to Minimize the Risk of an Electrical Shock: Start with the first round of the day; check all electrical motors, wiring, and switches, for abnormal sounds, variation in temperatures, and loose connections. Ensure that all electrical connections are inside the panel box so that no one can touch them accidentally. In accommodation areas, multiple socket plugs shouldn’t be used. Turn off the breaker before starting any work on an electrical system. Use ply cards and notice boards as much as possible to inform others about the ongoing work to avoid accidental 'starts'. Double check electrical tools such as portable drills for any loose wires before attempting any job.Important Precautions for Installation of Electric Cables: The cables and wiring external to the equipment must have flame retardant properties and should be installed in such a manner that it should not interfere with the original flame-retarding properties. Cables and wirings for emergency equipment, lightings, communication, and signals should be kept away from spaces such as galley, laundries, machinery space of category A, and other high-risk areas. Special precautions are to be taken for cable installation in hazardous areas as it might lead to explosion in case of electrical fault. Terminations and joints are to be made in such a manner that they should retain their original fire-resisting properties. Avoid cable damage and chaffing during installation. Fireproof glands are to be used in case of cables passing through the bulkhead to prevent fire from one compartment to another.ELECTRICAL SAFETY: Electrical equipment systems on ships are extremely hazardous and seafarers must take special care while handling them. Personal safety is of utmost importance while dealing with electrical systems on ships. Electrical Shock: When we talk about accidents on a ship, an electrical shock is the worst of all kinds. Electrical wires and connections are present everywhere on a ship and it is important to prevent yourself and others from getting a major electrical shock.Alternate Idea: Instead of turning off breakers one by one for the lighting circuit, turn off the lighting circuit of a particular doubted area. This method helps when there are two or more earth faults in 220V lighting circuit. Turning off all the breakers of a particular area and then switching on the breaker one by one will eliminate multiple earth faults. When turning off lighting switches one by one, it is difficult to identify multiple earth faults. Once the particular faulty circuit is spotted, then further break them into individual parts and check them for earth faults. For this, usually a megger against earth is used. By removing the fuse of the two-phase lines, each line can be tested and the fault pinned down." ]

[ "Steps to Minimize the Risk of an Electrical Shock: Start with the first round of the day; check all electrical motors, wiring, and switches, for abnormal sounds, variation in temperatures, and loose connections. Ensure that all electrical connections are inside the panel box so that no one can touch them accidentally. In accommodation areas, multiple socket plugs shouldn’t be used. Turn off the breaker before starting any work on an electrical system. Use ply cards and notice boards as much as possible to inform others about the ongoing work to avoid accidental 'starts'. Double check electrical tools such as portable drills for any loose wires before attempting any job.Alternate Idea: Instead of turning off breakers one by one for the lighting circuit, turn off the lighting circuit of a particular doubted area. This method helps when there are two or more earth faults in 220V lighting circuit. Turning off all the breakers of a particular area and then switching on the breaker one by one will eliminate multiple earth faults. When turning off lighting switches one by one, it is difficult to identify multiple earth faults. Once the particular faulty circuit is spotted, then further break them into individual parts and check them for earth faults. For this, usually a megger against earth is used. By removing the fuse of the two-phase lines, each line can be tested and the fault pinned down.Safety Measures to be Followed While Starting Motor Starter Panel Routines: 1. Switch off the main power supply from the circuit breaker. 2. Take out the main fuses in the starter panel, and if required control fuses as well. 3. Put the lock out tag. 4. Inform the engineer who is in charge of that particular machinery.Always wear protective clothing, rubber gloves, rubber kneepads, and safety shoes to avoid risk of shock. Use electrically insulated handle tools for working or checking electrical systems. Before working, remove jewelry, wristbands, and other conductive items. When working or removing multiple wires, tape off all but the one wire you are working on. Try as much as possible not to work on live systems and even if you do so, be a professional and work carefully, taking all necessary safety precautions and with utmost concentration. During working in a group or pair, organize a toolbox meeting and discuss the procedure, risk, and hazards of the job in hand." ]

[ "Always wear protective clothing, rubber gloves, rubber kneepads, and safety shoes to avoid risk of shock. Use electrically insulated handle tools for working or checking electrical systems. Before working, remove jewelry, wristbands, and other conductive items. When working or removing multiple wires, tape off all but the one wire you are working on. Try as much as possible not to work on live systems and even if you do so, be a professional and work carefully, taking all necessary safety precautions and with utmost concentration. During working in a group or pair, organize a toolbox meeting and discuss the procedure, risk, and hazards of the job in hand.Steps to Minimize the Risk of an Electrical Shock: Start with the first round of the day; check all electrical motors, wiring, and switches, for abnormal sounds, variation in temperatures, and loose connections. Ensure that all electrical connections are inside the panel box so that no one can touch them accidentally. In accommodation areas, multiple socket plugs shouldn’t be used. Turn off the breaker before starting any work on an electrical system. Use ply cards and notice boards as much as possible to inform others about the ongoing work to avoid accidental 'starts'. Double check electrical tools such as portable drills for any loose wires before attempting any job.If you don’t know about the system, ask for assistance. Don’t work without knowing the system. Always think first about your personal safety and the safety of fellow seafarers while carrying out any electrical work on board ships.Safety Measures to be Followed While Starting Motor Starter Panel Routines: 1. Switch off the main power supply from the circuit breaker. 2. Take out the main fuses in the starter panel, and if required control fuses as well. 3. Put the lock out tag. 4. Inform the engineer who is in charge of that particular machinery." ]

[ "Always wear protective clothing, rubber gloves, rubber kneepads, and safety shoes to avoid risk of shock. Use electrically insulated handle tools for working or checking electrical systems. Before working, remove jewelry, wristbands, and other conductive items. When working or removing multiple wires, tape off all but the one wire you are working on. Try as much as possible not to work on live systems and even if you do so, be a professional and work carefully, taking all necessary safety precautions and with utmost concentration. During working in a group or pair, organize a toolbox meeting and discuss the procedure, risk, and hazards of the job in hand.Steps to Minimize the Risk of an Electrical Shock: Start with the first round of the day; check all electrical motors, wiring, and switches, for abnormal sounds, variation in temperatures, and loose connections. Ensure that all electrical connections are inside the panel box so that no one can touch them accidentally. In accommodation areas, multiple socket plugs shouldn’t be used. Turn off the breaker before starting any work on an electrical system. Use ply cards and notice boards as much as possible to inform others about the ongoing work to avoid accidental 'starts'. Double check electrical tools such as portable drills for any loose wires before attempting any job.Maintenance and operational safety play an important role in the overall safety of the main switchboard. ELECTRICAL FIRE SAFETY: The root cause of any electrical fire is the insulation of the circuit or wire. If the insulation is weak or damaged, it may lead to spark, electrical shock, or fire in the system causing major accidents and casualties. The best way to avoid electrical fire is to maintain the insulation of electrical wires and equipment. The insulation of the electric cable is generally made up of rubber or plastic. The amount of smoke generated by the plastic in case of fire is dependent on factors such as the nature of plastic, type of additive used, flame of fire, and ventilation arrangements.ELECTRICAL SAFETY: Electrical equipment systems on ships are extremely hazardous and seafarers must take special care while handling them. Personal safety is of utmost importance while dealing with electrical systems on ships. Electrical Shock: When we talk about accidents on a ship, an electrical shock is the worst of all kinds. Electrical wires and connections are present everywhere on a ship and it is important to prevent yourself and others from getting a major electrical shock." ]

[ "Always wear protective clothing, rubber gloves, rubber kneepads, and safety shoes to avoid risk of shock. Use electrically insulated handle tools for working or checking electrical systems. Before working, remove jewelry, wristbands, and other conductive items. When working or removing multiple wires, tape off all but the one wire you are working on. Try as much as possible not to work on live systems and even if you do so, be a professional and work carefully, taking all necessary safety precautions and with utmost concentration. During working in a group or pair, organize a toolbox meeting and discuss the procedure, risk, and hazards of the job in hand.Steps to Minimize the Risk of an Electrical Shock: Start with the first round of the day; check all electrical motors, wiring, and switches, for abnormal sounds, variation in temperatures, and loose connections. Ensure that all electrical connections are inside the panel box so that no one can touch them accidentally. In accommodation areas, multiple socket plugs shouldn’t be used. Turn off the breaker before starting any work on an electrical system. Use ply cards and notice boards as much as possible to inform others about the ongoing work to avoid accidental 'starts'. Double check electrical tools such as portable drills for any loose wires before attempting any job.Maintenance and operational safety play an important role in the overall safety of the main switchboard. ELECTRICAL FIRE SAFETY: The root cause of any electrical fire is the insulation of the circuit or wire. If the insulation is weak or damaged, it may lead to spark, electrical shock, or fire in the system causing major accidents and casualties. The best way to avoid electrical fire is to maintain the insulation of electrical wires and equipment. The insulation of the electric cable is generally made up of rubber or plastic. The amount of smoke generated by the plastic in case of fire is dependent on factors such as the nature of plastic, type of additive used, flame of fire, and ventilation arrangements.Ways to Reduce these Hazards: The following steps should be taken as preventive measures: Cables having E.P.R (Ethylene Propylene Rubber) insulation with necessary sheathing of Poly Chloro Prene or Chloro Sulphonated Polyethylene (PCP or CSP) may be used to protect the insulation against fire. G.I armor may be used to protect insulation from fire but needs to be earthed. By using cables having a high oxygen index number, the number allotted to material depending on the minimum percentage of oxygen required to sustain combustion. If the material used is having an oxygen index number 27, it means that the minimum percentage of oxygen required to burn the material is 27% which is well above the normal atmospheric oxygen percentage of 21%. Thus, the insulation material will not catch fire." ]

[ "Always wear protective clothing, rubber gloves, rubber kneepads, and safety shoes to avoid risk of shock. Use electrically insulated handle tools for working or checking electrical systems. Before working, remove jewelry, wristbands, and other conductive items. When working or removing multiple wires, tape off all but the one wire you are working on. Try as much as possible not to work on live systems and even if you do so, be a professional and work carefully, taking all necessary safety precautions and with utmost concentration. During working in a group or pair, organize a toolbox meeting and discuss the procedure, risk, and hazards of the job in hand.Steps to Minimize the Risk of an Electrical Shock: Start with the first round of the day; check all electrical motors, wiring, and switches, for abnormal sounds, variation in temperatures, and loose connections. Ensure that all electrical connections are inside the panel box so that no one can touch them accidentally. In accommodation areas, multiple socket plugs shouldn’t be used. Turn off the breaker before starting any work on an electrical system. Use ply cards and notice boards as much as possible to inform others about the ongoing work to avoid accidental 'starts'. Double check electrical tools such as portable drills for any loose wires before attempting any job.ELECTRICAL SAFETY: Electrical equipment systems on ships are extremely hazardous and seafarers must take special care while handling them. Personal safety is of utmost importance while dealing with electrical systems on ships. Electrical Shock: When we talk about accidents on a ship, an electrical shock is the worst of all kinds. Electrical wires and connections are present everywhere on a ship and it is important to prevent yourself and others from getting a major electrical shock.If you don’t know about the system, ask for assistance. Don’t work without knowing the system. Always think first about your personal safety and the safety of fellow seafarers while carrying out any electrical work on board ships." ]

[ "Always wear protective clothing, rubber gloves, rubber kneepads, and safety shoes to avoid risk of shock. Use electrically insulated handle tools for working or checking electrical systems. Before working, remove jewelry, wristbands, and other conductive items. When working or removing multiple wires, tape off all but the one wire you are working on. Try as much as possible not to work on live systems and even if you do so, be a professional and work carefully, taking all necessary safety precautions and with utmost concentration. During working in a group or pair, organize a toolbox meeting and discuss the procedure, risk, and hazards of the job in hand.Steps to Minimize the Risk of an Electrical Shock: Start with the first round of the day; check all electrical motors, wiring, and switches, for abnormal sounds, variation in temperatures, and loose connections. Ensure that all electrical connections are inside the panel box so that no one can touch them accidentally. In accommodation areas, multiple socket plugs shouldn’t be used. Turn off the breaker before starting any work on an electrical system. Use ply cards and notice boards as much as possible to inform others about the ongoing work to avoid accidental 'starts'. Double check electrical tools such as portable drills for any loose wires before attempting any job.Important Precautions for Installation of Electric Cables: The cables and wiring external to the equipment must have flame retardant properties and should be installed in such a manner that it should not interfere with the original flame-retarding properties. Cables and wirings for emergency equipment, lightings, communication, and signals should be kept away from spaces such as galley, laundries, machinery space of category A, and other high-risk areas. Special precautions are to be taken for cable installation in hazardous areas as it might lead to explosion in case of electrical fault. Terminations and joints are to be made in such a manner that they should retain their original fire-resisting properties. Avoid cable damage and chaffing during installation. Fireproof glands are to be used in case of cables passing through the bulkhead to prevent fire from one compartment to another.Ways to Reduce these Hazards: The following steps should be taken as preventive measures: Cables having E.P.R (Ethylene Propylene Rubber) insulation with necessary sheathing of Poly Chloro Prene or Chloro Sulphonated Polyethylene (PCP or CSP) may be used to protect the insulation against fire. G.I armor may be used to protect insulation from fire but needs to be earthed. By using cables having a high oxygen index number, the number allotted to material depending on the minimum percentage of oxygen required to sustain combustion. If the material used is having an oxygen index number 27, it means that the minimum percentage of oxygen required to burn the material is 27% which is well above the normal atmospheric oxygen percentage of 21%. Thus, the insulation material will not catch fire." ]

[ "Always wear protective clothing, rubber gloves, rubber kneepads, and safety shoes to avoid risk of shock. Use electrically insulated handle tools for working or checking electrical systems. Before working, remove jewelry, wristbands, and other conductive items. When working or removing multiple wires, tape off all but the one wire you are working on. Try as much as possible not to work on live systems and even if you do so, be a professional and work carefully, taking all necessary safety precautions and with utmost concentration. During working in a group or pair, organize a toolbox meeting and discuss the procedure, risk, and hazards of the job in hand.If you don’t know about the system, ask for assistance. Don’t work without knowing the system. Always think first about your personal safety and the safety of fellow seafarers while carrying out any electrical work on board ships.Safety before doing bus bar maintenance: Put the 'lockout' tag in all generators and in the emergency generator. Keep all the generator system including load dependent start stop system in manual mode. Ensure to wear rubber gloves even when the board is not in 'Live' condition. Wear all required personal protective equipment (PPEs) when working on the switchboard. If the ship is in complete blackout situation, ensure that before cleaning the main and emergency switchboard, the area is well lit by sufficient lights. In dry dock, same can be arranged from shore workshop.ELECTRICAL SAFETY: Electrical equipment systems on ships are extremely hazardous and seafarers must take special care while handling them. Personal safety is of utmost importance while dealing with electrical systems on ships. Electrical Shock: When we talk about accidents on a ship, an electrical shock is the worst of all kinds. Electrical wires and connections are present everywhere on a ship and it is important to prevent yourself and others from getting a major electrical shock." ]

[ "Always wear protective clothing, rubber gloves, rubber kneepads, and safety shoes to avoid risk of shock. Use electrically insulated handle tools for working or checking electrical systems. Before working, remove jewelry, wristbands, and other conductive items. When working or removing multiple wires, tape off all but the one wire you are working on. Try as much as possible not to work on live systems and even if you do so, be a professional and work carefully, taking all necessary safety precautions and with utmost concentration. During working in a group or pair, organize a toolbox meeting and discuss the procedure, risk, and hazards of the job in hand.Steps to Minimize the Risk of an Electrical Shock: Start with the first round of the day; check all electrical motors, wiring, and switches, for abnormal sounds, variation in temperatures, and loose connections. Ensure that all electrical connections are inside the panel box so that no one can touch them accidentally. In accommodation areas, multiple socket plugs shouldn’t be used. Turn off the breaker before starting any work on an electrical system. Use ply cards and notice boards as much as possible to inform others about the ongoing work to avoid accidental 'starts'. Double check electrical tools such as portable drills for any loose wires before attempting any job.If you don’t know about the system, ask for assistance. Don’t work without knowing the system. Always think first about your personal safety and the safety of fellow seafarers while carrying out any electrical work on board ships.The ship’s electrical officer is required to inspect the busbar periodically for record keeping and also as stated by the preventive maintenance system. This is done to avoid any type of accident from electrical faults on ships. When doing such inspection the following highest safety measures are to be taken with all required PPEs as the Busbar is 'LIVE'. Check the load in the running generator by means of KW meter provided in the main switchboard. Open the bus bar access door provided at the backside of MSB or ESB." ]

[ "If you don’t know about the system, ask for assistance. Don’t work without knowing the system. Always think first about your personal safety and the safety of fellow seafarers while carrying out any electrical work on board ships.Steps to Minimize the Risk of an Electrical Shock: Start with the first round of the day; check all electrical motors, wiring, and switches, for abnormal sounds, variation in temperatures, and loose connections. Ensure that all electrical connections are inside the panel box so that no one can touch them accidentally. In accommodation areas, multiple socket plugs shouldn’t be used. Turn off the breaker before starting any work on an electrical system. Use ply cards and notice boards as much as possible to inform others about the ongoing work to avoid accidental 'starts'. Double check electrical tools such as portable drills for any loose wires before attempting any job.Always wear protective clothing, rubber gloves, rubber kneepads, and safety shoes to avoid risk of shock. Use electrically insulated handle tools for working or checking electrical systems. Before working, remove jewelry, wristbands, and other conductive items. When working or removing multiple wires, tape off all but the one wire you are working on. Try as much as possible not to work on live systems and even if you do so, be a professional and work carefully, taking all necessary safety precautions and with utmost concentration. During working in a group or pair, organize a toolbox meeting and discuss the procedure, risk, and hazards of the job in hand.Any earth fault on a 440V system is considered to be a serious trouble and immediate action is required to identify the faulty circuit. Earth fault on 220V or any low voltage lighting circuit can be considered as important but need not require immediate attention. However, attention should be paid at the next earliest opportunity. Finding Earth Fault on 440V circuit: Whenever there is an earth fault alarm, immediately inform the electrical officer (if he is on board). First action is to check the trueness of the alarm. Usually there will be a test button which when pressed, resets the alarm and rechecks the condition of the earth fault." ]

[ "ELECTRICAL SAFETY: Electrical equipment systems on ships are extremely hazardous and seafarers must take special care while handling them. Personal safety is of utmost importance while dealing with electrical systems on ships. Electrical Shock: When we talk about accidents on a ship, an electrical shock is the worst of all kinds. Electrical wires and connections are present everywhere on a ship and it is important to prevent yourself and others from getting a major electrical shock.If you don’t know about the system, ask for assistance. Don’t work without knowing the system. Always think first about your personal safety and the safety of fellow seafarers while carrying out any electrical work on board ships.ELECTRICAL MAINTENANCE: Earth Fault on Ships: Earth fault is considered very critical on board a ship. Some ships, which operate at 440 V do not have any trip devices attached for a single earth fault. However, when the operating voltage exceeds 3000V, it is mandatory to have a protection system that isolates when ship machinery suffers an earth fault. The seriousness of the action to be taken on an Earth Fault depends on the part of the electrical system it affects. Conventional ships which operate on 3 Phase, 440V, have earth fault indicators installed on all three phases.The ship’s electrical officer is required to inspect the busbar periodically for record keeping and also as stated by the preventive maintenance system. This is done to avoid any type of accident from electrical faults on ships. When doing such inspection the following highest safety measures are to be taken with all required PPEs as the Busbar is 'LIVE'. Check the load in the running generator by means of KW meter provided in the main switchboard. Open the bus bar access door provided at the backside of MSB or ESB." ]

[ "MAIN AND EMERGENCY SWITCHBOARD SAFETY: It is very important to isolate any type of fault in an electrical system supplied from the main switchboard (MSB), or else it will affect all the other systems connected to the same. If such isolation is not provided, then a short circuit in even a smaller system can cause a blackout of the whole ship. The main switchboard is an intermediate installation in the ship’s power distribution circuit, connecting the power generators and power consumers. The power generators on ships are auxiliary engines with alternators, and the different engine room machineries such as motors, blowers, etc., are the consumers.Maintenance and operational safety play an important role in the overall safety of the main switchboard. ELECTRICAL FIRE SAFETY: The root cause of any electrical fire is the insulation of the circuit or wire. If the insulation is weak or damaged, it may lead to spark, electrical shock, or fire in the system causing major accidents and casualties. The best way to avoid electrical fire is to maintain the insulation of electrical wires and equipment. The insulation of the electric cable is generally made up of rubber or plastic. The amount of smoke generated by the plastic in case of fire is dependent on factors such as the nature of plastic, type of additive used, flame of fire, and ventilation arrangements.If the ship is having IAS (Integrated Automation System), check on the computer in the list of events, after which the alarm has activated. If IAS facility is not available, there is only one option left i.e. isolating each and every machinery system in the 440 V circuit. When this is done, check for which machinery the earth fault indication returns back to normal. Isolation of all machinery, which operates on 440V is not always possible. Certain critical equipment like steering gear and lubricating oil pumps cannot be isolated when the ship is underway. However, changeover can be done from running machinery to the standby one and the earth fault can be found.Safety before doing bus bar maintenance: Put the 'lockout' tag in all generators and in the emergency generator. Keep all the generator system including load dependent start stop system in manual mode. Ensure to wear rubber gloves even when the board is not in 'Live' condition. Wear all required personal protective equipment (PPEs) when working on the switchboard. If the ship is in complete blackout situation, ensure that before cleaning the main and emergency switchboard, the area is well lit by sufficient lights. In dry dock, same can be arranged from shore workshop." ]

[ "MAIN AND EMERGENCY SWITCHBOARD SAFETY: It is very important to isolate any type of fault in an electrical system supplied from the main switchboard (MSB), or else it will affect all the other systems connected to the same. If such isolation is not provided, then a short circuit in even a smaller system can cause a blackout of the whole ship. The main switchboard is an intermediate installation in the ship’s power distribution circuit, connecting the power generators and power consumers. The power generators on ships are auxiliary engines with alternators, and the different engine room machineries such as motors, blowers, etc., are the consumers.Variety of safety devices are used on board ships and installed on the main switchboard (MSB) and electrical distribution panels. This ensures safe and efficient running of machinery systems and safety of the seafarers from electric shocks. The Important safety devices fitted on the main switchboard are: Circuit breakers: A circuit breaker is an auto shut down device, which activates during an abnormality in the electrical circuit. Especially during overloading or short circuit, the circuit breaker opens the supplied circuit from MSB and protects the same. Different circuit breakers are strategically installed at various locations on the ship.Power Distribution on Ships: The ship’s power distribution system consists of different components for distribution and safe operation of the system. The main components of this system are: Ship’s generator - consists of prime mover and alternator; Main switchboard - a metal enclosure taking power from the diesel generator and supplying it to different machinery systems; Bus bars - act as power carriers and allow transfer of load from one point to another; Circuit breakers - act as a switch, and in unsafe conditions can be tripped to avoid breakdown and accidents; Fuses - safety devices for machinery; Transformers - to step up or step down the voltage. When supply is to be given to the lighting system, a step down transformer is used in the distribution system.The ship’s electrical officer is required to inspect the busbar periodically for record keeping and also as stated by the preventive maintenance system. This is done to avoid any type of accident from electrical faults on ships. When doing such inspection the following highest safety measures are to be taken with all required PPEs as the Busbar is 'LIVE'. Check the load in the running generator by means of KW meter provided in the main switchboard. Open the bus bar access door provided at the backside of MSB or ESB." ]

[ "Variety of safety devices are used on board ships and installed on the main switchboard (MSB) and electrical distribution panels. This ensures safe and efficient running of machinery systems and safety of the seafarers from electric shocks. The Important safety devices fitted on the main switchboard are: Circuit breakers: A circuit breaker is an auto shut down device, which activates during an abnormality in the electrical circuit. Especially during overloading or short circuit, the circuit breaker opens the supplied circuit from MSB and protects the same. Different circuit breakers are strategically installed at various locations on the ship.MAIN AND EMERGENCY SWITCHBOARD SAFETY: It is very important to isolate any type of fault in an electrical system supplied from the main switchboard (MSB), or else it will affect all the other systems connected to the same. If such isolation is not provided, then a short circuit in even a smaller system can cause a blackout of the whole ship. The main switchboard is an intermediate installation in the ship’s power distribution circuit, connecting the power generators and power consumers. The power generators on ships are auxiliary engines with alternators, and the different engine room machineries such as motors, blowers, etc., are the consumers.Safety before doing bus bar maintenance: Put the 'lockout' tag in all generators and in the emergency generator. Keep all the generator system including load dependent start stop system in manual mode. Ensure to wear rubber gloves even when the board is not in 'Live' condition. Wear all required personal protective equipment (PPEs) when working on the switchboard. If the ship is in complete blackout situation, ensure that before cleaning the main and emergency switchboard, the area is well lit by sufficient lights. In dry dock, same can be arranged from shore workshop.By using an adjustable spanner or particular size spanner, tighten the nuts in the busbar connection for main and emergency switchboards. Check the tightness of the wire connections, which is connected to the circuit breakers. Clean the bus bar and switchboard area with the help of a vacuum cleaner. If you find any loose connection or spark, black out the particular and adjacent bus bar before tightening the nut. If you find any metal piece or nut bolts missing or inside the panel, ensure to remove it as the same can cause short circuit or fire. Inform the Chief Engineer and the in-charge of that particular machinery regarding the same. Reset the main power and check if there is any abnormal sound in main switchboard and emergency switchboard. Monitor the temperature of the busbar area with a laser temperature gun. Keep the emergency switchboard in the auto mode." ]

[ "Air Circuit Breaker (ACB): Air circuit breaker is designed to overcome the defects and safeguard the machine before it breaks down. The main function of an air circuit breaker is to: Open and close a 3 phase circuit, manually or automatically. Open the circuit automatically when a fault occurs. Faults can be of various types – under or over voltage, under or over frequency, short circuit, reverse power, earth fault etc. The main feature of ACB is that it dampens or quenches the arcing during overloading.Fuses: Fuses are mainly used for short circuit protection and come in various ratings. If the current passing through the circuit exceeds the safe value, the fuse material melts and isolates the MSB from the default system. Normally, fuses are used with 1.5 times of full load current. Over current relay: OCR is used mainly on the local panel and MSB for protection from high current. It is installed where a low power signal is a controller. Normally relays are set equivalent to full load current with time delay. Dead front panel: It is also a safety device provided on the main switchboard individual panels, wherein you cannot open the panel until the power of that panel is completely switched off.Construction and Working: The preferential trip circuit consists of an electromagnetic coil and a dashpot arrangement to provide some delay to disconnect the non-essential circuits. Along with this, there is also an alarm system provided, which functions as soon as an overload is detected and the trips start operating. There are some mechanical linkages, which instantaneously operate and complete the circuit for preferential trips. The dashpot arrangement consists of a piston, with a small orifice, placed inside a small cylinder assembly. This piston moves up against the fluid silicon and the orifice in the piston governs the time delay.Variety of safety devices are used on board ships and installed on the main switchboard (MSB) and electrical distribution panels. This ensures safe and efficient running of machinery systems and safety of the seafarers from electric shocks. The Important safety devices fitted on the main switchboard are: Circuit breakers: A circuit breaker is an auto shut down device, which activates during an abnormality in the electrical circuit. Especially during overloading or short circuit, the circuit breaker opens the supplied circuit from MSB and protects the same. Different circuit breakers are strategically installed at various locations on the ship." ]

[ "Fuses: Fuses are mainly used for short circuit protection and come in various ratings. If the current passing through the circuit exceeds the safe value, the fuse material melts and isolates the MSB from the default system. Normally, fuses are used with 1.5 times of full load current. Over current relay: OCR is used mainly on the local panel and MSB for protection from high current. It is installed where a low power signal is a controller. Normally relays are set equivalent to full load current with time delay. Dead front panel: It is also a safety device provided on the main switchboard individual panels, wherein you cannot open the panel until the power of that panel is completely switched off.Construction and Working: The preferential trip circuit consists of an electromagnetic coil and a dashpot arrangement to provide some delay to disconnect the non-essential circuits. Along with this, there is also an alarm system provided, which functions as soon as an overload is detected and the trips start operating. There are some mechanical linkages, which instantaneously operate and complete the circuit for preferential trips. The dashpot arrangement consists of a piston, with a small orifice, placed inside a small cylinder assembly. This piston moves up against the fluid silicon and the orifice in the piston governs the time delay.A brief maintenance procedure for relay is given as follows: Checks to be carried out on relay contacts for damage due to arcing. Polish the contact with emery paper to remove rust and deposits. Check the closing linkage for free movement. Check the continuity of the contacts with a multimeter. There are arc chutes provided to quench the arcing. Check for burnout of the same. Check the tension of the spring. Open circuit and short circuit tests to be performed on the coil by multimeter. Check the continuity of the trip circuit by multimeter. Check tightness of the supply terminals.Maintenance and operational safety play an important role in the overall safety of the main switchboard. ELECTRICAL FIRE SAFETY: The root cause of any electrical fire is the insulation of the circuit or wire. If the insulation is weak or damaged, it may lead to spark, electrical shock, or fire in the system causing major accidents and casualties. The best way to avoid electrical fire is to maintain the insulation of electrical wires and equipment. The insulation of the electric cable is generally made up of rubber or plastic. The amount of smoke generated by the plastic in case of fire is dependent on factors such as the nature of plastic, type of additive used, flame of fire, and ventilation arrangements." ]

[ "Electrical Relay Maintenance on Ships: A relay is an important electromechanical safety device in ship’s electrical circuit and is normally used to open the faulty circuit from the main supply when any kind of electrical fault occurs. A relay is fitted in the Main and Emergency switchboards of the ship as a protective device. Relay has to be kept operational and healthy at all times, else at the time of fault if the relay does not operate properly, the whole system may suffer loss of power or damage. The most common application of relays is for overload and short circuit protection.Fuses: Fuses are mainly used for short circuit protection and come in various ratings. If the current passing through the circuit exceeds the safe value, the fuse material melts and isolates the MSB from the default system. Normally, fuses are used with 1.5 times of full load current. Over current relay: OCR is used mainly on the local panel and MSB for protection from high current. It is installed where a low power signal is a controller. Normally relays are set equivalent to full load current with time delay. Dead front panel: It is also a safety device provided on the main switchboard individual panels, wherein you cannot open the panel until the power of that panel is completely switched off.A ship engineer or electrical officer has to make sure that the relay is efficiently in operation and the maintenance is carried out on the same as per schedule. If during inspection, the relay is found out to be defective it must be replaced immediately with a spare one. A simple electromagnetic relay will get activated when the magnetic effect of the iron core is sufficiently increased by the excess or high current in the coil, which will attract the iron armature held against the spring force to trip the circuit.Variety of safety devices are used on board ships and installed on the main switchboard (MSB) and electrical distribution panels. This ensures safe and efficient running of machinery systems and safety of the seafarers from electric shocks. The Important safety devices fitted on the main switchboard are: Circuit breakers: A circuit breaker is an auto shut down device, which activates during an abnormality in the electrical circuit. Especially during overloading or short circuit, the circuit breaker opens the supplied circuit from MSB and protects the same. Different circuit breakers are strategically installed at various locations on the ship." ]

[ "Fuses: Fuses are mainly used for short circuit protection and come in various ratings. If the current passing through the circuit exceeds the safe value, the fuse material melts and isolates the MSB from the default system. Normally, fuses are used with 1.5 times of full load current. Over current relay: OCR is used mainly on the local panel and MSB for protection from high current. It is installed where a low power signal is a controller. Normally relays are set equivalent to full load current with time delay. Dead front panel: It is also a safety device provided on the main switchboard individual panels, wherein you cannot open the panel until the power of that panel is completely switched off.Variety of safety devices are used on board ships and installed on the main switchboard (MSB) and electrical distribution panels. This ensures safe and efficient running of machinery systems and safety of the seafarers from electric shocks. The Important safety devices fitted on the main switchboard are: Circuit breakers: A circuit breaker is an auto shut down device, which activates during an abnormality in the electrical circuit. Especially during overloading or short circuit, the circuit breaker opens the supplied circuit from MSB and protects the same. Different circuit breakers are strategically installed at various locations on the ship.Safety before doing bus bar maintenance: Put the 'lockout' tag in all generators and in the emergency generator. Keep all the generator system including load dependent start stop system in manual mode. Ensure to wear rubber gloves even when the board is not in 'Live' condition. Wear all required personal protective equipment (PPEs) when working on the switchboard. If the ship is in complete blackout situation, ensure that before cleaning the main and emergency switchboard, the area is well lit by sufficient lights. In dry dock, same can be arranged from shore workshop.Why Starter Panel Routines and Maintenance are Important? Every time we switch on the motor, the contacts in the panel get energized as electricity flows through the contacts (high current flows during starting). At the time of on/off of the switch, a spark is generated in the contacts for a fraction of seconds. In case of poor contacts, this spark will damage the same, leading to pitting/scoring marks in the contacts along with carbon deposits on the contact surface." ]

[ "Maintenance and operational safety play an important role in the overall safety of the main switchboard. ELECTRICAL FIRE SAFETY: The root cause of any electrical fire is the insulation of the circuit or wire. If the insulation is weak or damaged, it may lead to spark, electrical shock, or fire in the system causing major accidents and casualties. The best way to avoid electrical fire is to maintain the insulation of electrical wires and equipment. The insulation of the electric cable is generally made up of rubber or plastic. The amount of smoke generated by the plastic in case of fire is dependent on factors such as the nature of plastic, type of additive used, flame of fire, and ventilation arrangements.Safety before doing bus bar maintenance: Put the 'lockout' tag in all generators and in the emergency generator. Keep all the generator system including load dependent start stop system in manual mode. Ensure to wear rubber gloves even when the board is not in 'Live' condition. Wear all required personal protective equipment (PPEs) when working on the switchboard. If the ship is in complete blackout situation, ensure that before cleaning the main and emergency switchboard, the area is well lit by sufficient lights. In dry dock, same can be arranged from shore workshop.MAIN AND EMERGENCY SWITCHBOARD SAFETY: It is very important to isolate any type of fault in an electrical system supplied from the main switchboard (MSB), or else it will affect all the other systems connected to the same. If such isolation is not provided, then a short circuit in even a smaller system can cause a blackout of the whole ship. The main switchboard is an intermediate installation in the ship’s power distribution circuit, connecting the power generators and power consumers. The power generators on ships are auxiliary engines with alternators, and the different engine room machineries such as motors, blowers, etc., are the consumers.These vibrations cause loosening of nut bolts in the busbar, which can lead to short circuit or any other type of accident. Loose connections inside the switchboard can also lead to sparks that can cause fire. Moreover, the busbars are meant to carry high voltage and current, which tend to heat up the lines due to energy flow in the system. For this reason, inspection and maintenance of busbar at regular inspection of time are required for smooth operation. Safety: If any maintenance is planned for busbars, highest standards of safety are required as even the tiniest mistake can lead to electrocution and even death of the crew. The busbar maintenance is therefore performed when the complete busbar panel or switchboard is turned “OFF”." ]

[ "ELECTRICAL SAFETY: Electrical equipment systems on ships are extremely hazardous and seafarers must take special care while handling them. Personal safety is of utmost importance while dealing with electrical systems on ships. Electrical Shock: When we talk about accidents on a ship, an electrical shock is the worst of all kinds. Electrical wires and connections are present everywhere on a ship and it is important to prevent yourself and others from getting a major electrical shock.ELECTRICAL MAINTENANCE: Earth Fault on Ships: Earth fault is considered very critical on board a ship. Some ships, which operate at 440 V do not have any trip devices attached for a single earth fault. However, when the operating voltage exceeds 3000V, it is mandatory to have a protection system that isolates when ship machinery suffers an earth fault. The seriousness of the action to be taken on an Earth Fault depends on the part of the electrical system it affects. Conventional ships which operate on 3 Phase, 440V, have earth fault indicators installed on all three phases.Maintenance and operational safety play an important role in the overall safety of the main switchboard. ELECTRICAL FIRE SAFETY: The root cause of any electrical fire is the insulation of the circuit or wire. If the insulation is weak or damaged, it may lead to spark, electrical shock, or fire in the system causing major accidents and casualties. The best way to avoid electrical fire is to maintain the insulation of electrical wires and equipment. The insulation of the electric cable is generally made up of rubber or plastic. The amount of smoke generated by the plastic in case of fire is dependent on factors such as the nature of plastic, type of additive used, flame of fire, and ventilation arrangements.MAIN AND EMERGENCY SWITCHBOARD SAFETY: It is very important to isolate any type of fault in an electrical system supplied from the main switchboard (MSB), or else it will affect all the other systems connected to the same. If such isolation is not provided, then a short circuit in even a smaller system can cause a blackout of the whole ship. The main switchboard is an intermediate installation in the ship’s power distribution circuit, connecting the power generators and power consumers. The power generators on ships are auxiliary engines with alternators, and the different engine room machineries such as motors, blowers, etc., are the consumers." ]

[ "Maintenance and operational safety play an important role in the overall safety of the main switchboard. ELECTRICAL FIRE SAFETY: The root cause of any electrical fire is the insulation of the circuit or wire. If the insulation is weak or damaged, it may lead to spark, electrical shock, or fire in the system causing major accidents and casualties. The best way to avoid electrical fire is to maintain the insulation of electrical wires and equipment. The insulation of the electric cable is generally made up of rubber or plastic. The amount of smoke generated by the plastic in case of fire is dependent on factors such as the nature of plastic, type of additive used, flame of fire, and ventilation arrangements.Ways to Reduce these Hazards: The following steps should be taken as preventive measures: Cables having E.P.R (Ethylene Propylene Rubber) insulation with necessary sheathing of Poly Chloro Prene or Chloro Sulphonated Polyethylene (PCP or CSP) may be used to protect the insulation against fire. G.I armor may be used to protect insulation from fire but needs to be earthed. By using cables having a high oxygen index number, the number allotted to material depending on the minimum percentage of oxygen required to sustain combustion. If the material used is having an oxygen index number 27, it means that the minimum percentage of oxygen required to burn the material is 27% which is well above the normal atmospheric oxygen percentage of 21%. Thus, the insulation material will not catch fire.Important Precautions for Installation of Electric Cables: The cables and wiring external to the equipment must have flame retardant properties and should be installed in such a manner that it should not interfere with the original flame-retarding properties. Cables and wirings for emergency equipment, lightings, communication, and signals should be kept away from spaces such as galley, laundries, machinery space of category A, and other high-risk areas. Special precautions are to be taken for cable installation in hazardous areas as it might lead to explosion in case of electrical fault. Terminations and joints are to be made in such a manner that they should retain their original fire-resisting properties. Avoid cable damage and chaffing during installation. Fireproof glands are to be used in case of cables passing through the bulkhead to prevent fire from one compartment to another.Insulation Resistance: Insulation resistance (I.R) is a critical parameter as it’s directly related to personal safety, safety of machinery, and power reliability. The I.R value of an electric device changes with aging, mechanical and electrical stresses, temperature, contamination, atmosphere, humidity, etc. It is therefore important for seafarers to check this parameter for avoiding fatal accidents due to electrical shock." ]

[ "Ways to Reduce these Hazards: The following steps should be taken as preventive measures: Cables having E.P.R (Ethylene Propylene Rubber) insulation with necessary sheathing of Poly Chloro Prene or Chloro Sulphonated Polyethylene (PCP or CSP) may be used to protect the insulation against fire. G.I armor may be used to protect insulation from fire but needs to be earthed. By using cables having a high oxygen index number, the number allotted to material depending on the minimum percentage of oxygen required to sustain combustion. If the material used is having an oxygen index number 27, it means that the minimum percentage of oxygen required to burn the material is 27% which is well above the normal atmospheric oxygen percentage of 21%. Thus, the insulation material will not catch fire.Maintenance and operational safety play an important role in the overall safety of the main switchboard. ELECTRICAL FIRE SAFETY: The root cause of any electrical fire is the insulation of the circuit or wire. If the insulation is weak or damaged, it may lead to spark, electrical shock, or fire in the system causing major accidents and casualties. The best way to avoid electrical fire is to maintain the insulation of electrical wires and equipment. The insulation of the electric cable is generally made up of rubber or plastic. The amount of smoke generated by the plastic in case of fire is dependent on factors such as the nature of plastic, type of additive used, flame of fire, and ventilation arrangements.Important Precautions for Installation of Electric Cables: The cables and wiring external to the equipment must have flame retardant properties and should be installed in such a manner that it should not interfere with the original flame-retarding properties. Cables and wirings for emergency equipment, lightings, communication, and signals should be kept away from spaces such as galley, laundries, machinery space of category A, and other high-risk areas. Special precautions are to be taken for cable installation in hazardous areas as it might lead to explosion in case of electrical fault. Terminations and joints are to be made in such a manner that they should retain their original fire-resisting properties. Avoid cable damage and chaffing during installation. Fireproof glands are to be used in case of cables passing through the bulkhead to prevent fire from one compartment to another.Insulation Resistance: Insulation resistance (I.R) is a critical parameter as it’s directly related to personal safety, safety of machinery, and power reliability. The I.R value of an electric device changes with aging, mechanical and electrical stresses, temperature, contamination, atmosphere, humidity, etc. It is therefore important for seafarers to check this parameter for avoiding fatal accidents due to electrical shock." ]

[ "In general, most plastics produce very dense smoke when heated. Some plastics burn very clearly when subjected to heat and flame, producing very less smoke. If insulation used is of urethane foam, a very dense smoke is produced and visibility in the room is lost. Some plastics contain Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC), which produces a pungent and irritating odor. Rubber, when used for insulation, produces dense, black, oily smoke and has some toxic qualities. The most common gases produced during the combustion of rubber are hydrogen sulphide and sulphur dioxide. Both these gases are dangerous for health and can be fatal in certain cases.Maintenance and operational safety play an important role in the overall safety of the main switchboard. ELECTRICAL FIRE SAFETY: The root cause of any electrical fire is the insulation of the circuit or wire. If the insulation is weak or damaged, it may lead to spark, electrical shock, or fire in the system causing major accidents and casualties. The best way to avoid electrical fire is to maintain the insulation of electrical wires and equipment. The insulation of the electric cable is generally made up of rubber or plastic. The amount of smoke generated by the plastic in case of fire is dependent on factors such as the nature of plastic, type of additive used, flame of fire, and ventilation arrangements.Ways to Reduce these Hazards: The following steps should be taken as preventive measures: Cables having E.P.R (Ethylene Propylene Rubber) insulation with necessary sheathing of Poly Chloro Prene or Chloro Sulphonated Polyethylene (PCP or CSP) may be used to protect the insulation against fire. G.I armor may be used to protect insulation from fire but needs to be earthed. By using cables having a high oxygen index number, the number allotted to material depending on the minimum percentage of oxygen required to sustain combustion. If the material used is having an oxygen index number 27, it means that the minimum percentage of oxygen required to burn the material is 27% which is well above the normal atmospheric oxygen percentage of 21%. Thus, the insulation material will not catch fire.Important Precautions for Installation of Electric Cables: The cables and wiring external to the equipment must have flame retardant properties and should be installed in such a manner that it should not interfere with the original flame-retarding properties. Cables and wirings for emergency equipment, lightings, communication, and signals should be kept away from spaces such as galley, laundries, machinery space of category A, and other high-risk areas. Special precautions are to be taken for cable installation in hazardous areas as it might lead to explosion in case of electrical fault. Terminations and joints are to be made in such a manner that they should retain their original fire-resisting properties. Avoid cable damage and chaffing during installation. Fireproof glands are to be used in case of cables passing through the bulkhead to prevent fire from one compartment to another." ]

[ "In general, most plastics produce very dense smoke when heated. Some plastics burn very clearly when subjected to heat and flame, producing very less smoke. If insulation used is of urethane foam, a very dense smoke is produced and visibility in the room is lost. Some plastics contain Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC), which produces a pungent and irritating odor. Rubber, when used for insulation, produces dense, black, oily smoke and has some toxic qualities. The most common gases produced during the combustion of rubber are hydrogen sulphide and sulphur dioxide. Both these gases are dangerous for health and can be fatal in certain cases.Ways to Reduce these Hazards: The following steps should be taken as preventive measures: Cables having E.P.R (Ethylene Propylene Rubber) insulation with necessary sheathing of Poly Chloro Prene or Chloro Sulphonated Polyethylene (PCP or CSP) may be used to protect the insulation against fire. G.I armor may be used to protect insulation from fire but needs to be earthed. By using cables having a high oxygen index number, the number allotted to material depending on the minimum percentage of oxygen required to sustain combustion. If the material used is having an oxygen index number 27, it means that the minimum percentage of oxygen required to burn the material is 27% which is well above the normal atmospheric oxygen percentage of 21%. Thus, the insulation material will not catch fire.Maintenance and operational safety play an important role in the overall safety of the main switchboard. ELECTRICAL FIRE SAFETY: The root cause of any electrical fire is the insulation of the circuit or wire. If the insulation is weak or damaged, it may lead to spark, electrical shock, or fire in the system causing major accidents and casualties. The best way to avoid electrical fire is to maintain the insulation of electrical wires and equipment. The insulation of the electric cable is generally made up of rubber or plastic. The amount of smoke generated by the plastic in case of fire is dependent on factors such as the nature of plastic, type of additive used, flame of fire, and ventilation arrangements.Insulation Resistance: Insulation resistance (I.R) is a critical parameter as it’s directly related to personal safety, safety of machinery, and power reliability. The I.R value of an electric device changes with aging, mechanical and electrical stresses, temperature, contamination, atmosphere, humidity, etc. It is therefore important for seafarers to check this parameter for avoiding fatal accidents due to electrical shock." ]

[ "Ways to Reduce these Hazards: The following steps should be taken as preventive measures: Cables having E.P.R (Ethylene Propylene Rubber) insulation with necessary sheathing of Poly Chloro Prene or Chloro Sulphonated Polyethylene (PCP or CSP) may be used to protect the insulation against fire. G.I armor may be used to protect insulation from fire but needs to be earthed. By using cables having a high oxygen index number, the number allotted to material depending on the minimum percentage of oxygen required to sustain combustion. If the material used is having an oxygen index number 27, it means that the minimum percentage of oxygen required to burn the material is 27% which is well above the normal atmospheric oxygen percentage of 21%. Thus, the insulation material will not catch fire.Maintenance and operational safety play an important role in the overall safety of the main switchboard. ELECTRICAL FIRE SAFETY: The root cause of any electrical fire is the insulation of the circuit or wire. If the insulation is weak or damaged, it may lead to spark, electrical shock, or fire in the system causing major accidents and casualties. The best way to avoid electrical fire is to maintain the insulation of electrical wires and equipment. The insulation of the electric cable is generally made up of rubber or plastic. The amount of smoke generated by the plastic in case of fire is dependent on factors such as the nature of plastic, type of additive used, flame of fire, and ventilation arrangements.Important Precautions for Installation of Electric Cables: The cables and wiring external to the equipment must have flame retardant properties and should be installed in such a manner that it should not interfere with the original flame-retarding properties. Cables and wirings for emergency equipment, lightings, communication, and signals should be kept away from spaces such as galley, laundries, machinery space of category A, and other high-risk areas. Special precautions are to be taken for cable installation in hazardous areas as it might lead to explosion in case of electrical fault. Terminations and joints are to be made in such a manner that they should retain their original fire-resisting properties. Avoid cable damage and chaffing during installation. Fireproof glands are to be used in case of cables passing through the bulkhead to prevent fire from one compartment to another.Always wear protective clothing, rubber gloves, rubber kneepads, and safety shoes to avoid risk of shock. Use electrically insulated handle tools for working or checking electrical systems. Before working, remove jewelry, wristbands, and other conductive items. When working or removing multiple wires, tape off all but the one wire you are working on. Try as much as possible not to work on live systems and even if you do so, be a professional and work carefully, taking all necessary safety precautions and with utmost concentration. During working in a group or pair, organize a toolbox meeting and discuss the procedure, risk, and hazards of the job in hand." ]

[ "Ways to Reduce these Hazards: The following steps should be taken as preventive measures: Cables having E.P.R (Ethylene Propylene Rubber) insulation with necessary sheathing of Poly Chloro Prene or Chloro Sulphonated Polyethylene (PCP or CSP) may be used to protect the insulation against fire. G.I armor may be used to protect insulation from fire but needs to be earthed. By using cables having a high oxygen index number, the number allotted to material depending on the minimum percentage of oxygen required to sustain combustion. If the material used is having an oxygen index number 27, it means that the minimum percentage of oxygen required to burn the material is 27% which is well above the normal atmospheric oxygen percentage of 21%. Thus, the insulation material will not catch fire.Maintenance and operational safety play an important role in the overall safety of the main switchboard. ELECTRICAL FIRE SAFETY: The root cause of any electrical fire is the insulation of the circuit or wire. If the insulation is weak or damaged, it may lead to spark, electrical shock, or fire in the system causing major accidents and casualties. The best way to avoid electrical fire is to maintain the insulation of electrical wires and equipment. The insulation of the electric cable is generally made up of rubber or plastic. The amount of smoke generated by the plastic in case of fire is dependent on factors such as the nature of plastic, type of additive used, flame of fire, and ventilation arrangements.Insulation Resistance: Insulation resistance (I.R) is a critical parameter as it’s directly related to personal safety, safety of machinery, and power reliability. The I.R value of an electric device changes with aging, mechanical and electrical stresses, temperature, contamination, atmosphere, humidity, etc. It is therefore important for seafarers to check this parameter for avoiding fatal accidents due to electrical shock.In general, most plastics produce very dense smoke when heated. Some plastics burn very clearly when subjected to heat and flame, producing very less smoke. If insulation used is of urethane foam, a very dense smoke is produced and visibility in the room is lost. Some plastics contain Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC), which produces a pungent and irritating odor. Rubber, when used for insulation, produces dense, black, oily smoke and has some toxic qualities. The most common gases produced during the combustion of rubber are hydrogen sulphide and sulphur dioxide. Both these gases are dangerous for health and can be fatal in certain cases." ]

[ "Ways to Reduce these Hazards: The following steps should be taken as preventive measures: Cables having E.P.R (Ethylene Propylene Rubber) insulation with necessary sheathing of Poly Chloro Prene or Chloro Sulphonated Polyethylene (PCP or CSP) may be used to protect the insulation against fire. G.I armor may be used to protect insulation from fire but needs to be earthed. By using cables having a high oxygen index number, the number allotted to material depending on the minimum percentage of oxygen required to sustain combustion. If the material used is having an oxygen index number 27, it means that the minimum percentage of oxygen required to burn the material is 27% which is well above the normal atmospheric oxygen percentage of 21%. Thus, the insulation material will not catch fire.Insulation Resistance: Insulation resistance (I.R) is a critical parameter as it’s directly related to personal safety, safety of machinery, and power reliability. The I.R value of an electric device changes with aging, mechanical and electrical stresses, temperature, contamination, atmosphere, humidity, etc. It is therefore important for seafarers to check this parameter for avoiding fatal accidents due to electrical shock.Maintenance and operational safety play an important role in the overall safety of the main switchboard. ELECTRICAL FIRE SAFETY: The root cause of any electrical fire is the insulation of the circuit or wire. If the insulation is weak or damaged, it may lead to spark, electrical shock, or fire in the system causing major accidents and casualties. The best way to avoid electrical fire is to maintain the insulation of electrical wires and equipment. The insulation of the electric cable is generally made up of rubber or plastic. The amount of smoke generated by the plastic in case of fire is dependent on factors such as the nature of plastic, type of additive used, flame of fire, and ventilation arrangements.In general, most plastics produce very dense smoke when heated. Some plastics burn very clearly when subjected to heat and flame, producing very less smoke. If insulation used is of urethane foam, a very dense smoke is produced and visibility in the room is lost. Some plastics contain Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC), which produces a pungent and irritating odor. Rubber, when used for insulation, produces dense, black, oily smoke and has some toxic qualities. The most common gases produced during the combustion of rubber are hydrogen sulphide and sulphur dioxide. Both these gases are dangerous for health and can be fatal in certain cases." ]

[ "Important Precautions for Installation of Electric Cables: The cables and wiring external to the equipment must have flame retardant properties and should be installed in such a manner that it should not interfere with the original flame-retarding properties. Cables and wirings for emergency equipment, lightings, communication, and signals should be kept away from spaces such as galley, laundries, machinery space of category A, and other high-risk areas. Special precautions are to be taken for cable installation in hazardous areas as it might lead to explosion in case of electrical fault. Terminations and joints are to be made in such a manner that they should retain their original fire-resisting properties. Avoid cable damage and chaffing during installation. Fireproof glands are to be used in case of cables passing through the bulkhead to prevent fire from one compartment to another.ELECTRICAL SAFETY: Electrical equipment systems on ships are extremely hazardous and seafarers must take special care while handling them. Personal safety is of utmost importance while dealing with electrical systems on ships. Electrical Shock: When we talk about accidents on a ship, an electrical shock is the worst of all kinds. Electrical wires and connections are present everywhere on a ship and it is important to prevent yourself and others from getting a major electrical shock.If you don’t know about the system, ask for assistance. Don’t work without knowing the system. Always think first about your personal safety and the safety of fellow seafarers while carrying out any electrical work on board ships.The ship’s electrical officer is required to inspect the busbar periodically for record keeping and also as stated by the preventive maintenance system. This is done to avoid any type of accident from electrical faults on ships. When doing such inspection the following highest safety measures are to be taken with all required PPEs as the Busbar is 'LIVE'. Check the load in the running generator by means of KW meter provided in the main switchboard. Open the bus bar access door provided at the backside of MSB or ESB." ]

[ "Important Precautions for Installation of Electric Cables: The cables and wiring external to the equipment must have flame retardant properties and should be installed in such a manner that it should not interfere with the original flame-retarding properties. Cables and wirings for emergency equipment, lightings, communication, and signals should be kept away from spaces such as galley, laundries, machinery space of category A, and other high-risk areas. Special precautions are to be taken for cable installation in hazardous areas as it might lead to explosion in case of electrical fault. Terminations and joints are to be made in such a manner that they should retain their original fire-resisting properties. Avoid cable damage and chaffing during installation. Fireproof glands are to be used in case of cables passing through the bulkhead to prevent fire from one compartment to another.Ways to Reduce these Hazards: The following steps should be taken as preventive measures: Cables having E.P.R (Ethylene Propylene Rubber) insulation with necessary sheathing of Poly Chloro Prene or Chloro Sulphonated Polyethylene (PCP or CSP) may be used to protect the insulation against fire. G.I armor may be used to protect insulation from fire but needs to be earthed. By using cables having a high oxygen index number, the number allotted to material depending on the minimum percentage of oxygen required to sustain combustion. If the material used is having an oxygen index number 27, it means that the minimum percentage of oxygen required to burn the material is 27% which is well above the normal atmospheric oxygen percentage of 21%. Thus, the insulation material will not catch fire.Maintenance and operational safety play an important role in the overall safety of the main switchboard. ELECTRICAL FIRE SAFETY: The root cause of any electrical fire is the insulation of the circuit or wire. If the insulation is weak or damaged, it may lead to spark, electrical shock, or fire in the system causing major accidents and casualties. The best way to avoid electrical fire is to maintain the insulation of electrical wires and equipment. The insulation of the electric cable is generally made up of rubber or plastic. The amount of smoke generated by the plastic in case of fire is dependent on factors such as the nature of plastic, type of additive used, flame of fire, and ventilation arrangements.Always wear protective clothing, rubber gloves, rubber kneepads, and safety shoes to avoid risk of shock. Use electrically insulated handle tools for working or checking electrical systems. Before working, remove jewelry, wristbands, and other conductive items. When working or removing multiple wires, tape off all but the one wire you are working on. Try as much as possible not to work on live systems and even if you do so, be a professional and work carefully, taking all necessary safety precautions and with utmost concentration. During working in a group or pair, organize a toolbox meeting and discuss the procedure, risk, and hazards of the job in hand." ]

[ "Important Precautions for Installation of Electric Cables: The cables and wiring external to the equipment must have flame retardant properties and should be installed in such a manner that it should not interfere with the original flame-retarding properties. Cables and wirings for emergency equipment, lightings, communication, and signals should be kept away from spaces such as galley, laundries, machinery space of category A, and other high-risk areas. Special precautions are to be taken for cable installation in hazardous areas as it might lead to explosion in case of electrical fault. Terminations and joints are to be made in such a manner that they should retain their original fire-resisting properties. Avoid cable damage and chaffing during installation. Fireproof glands are to be used in case of cables passing through the bulkhead to prevent fire from one compartment to another.Maintenance and operational safety play an important role in the overall safety of the main switchboard. ELECTRICAL FIRE SAFETY: The root cause of any electrical fire is the insulation of the circuit or wire. If the insulation is weak or damaged, it may lead to spark, electrical shock, or fire in the system causing major accidents and casualties. The best way to avoid electrical fire is to maintain the insulation of electrical wires and equipment. The insulation of the electric cable is generally made up of rubber or plastic. The amount of smoke generated by the plastic in case of fire is dependent on factors such as the nature of plastic, type of additive used, flame of fire, and ventilation arrangements.Always wear protective clothing, rubber gloves, rubber kneepads, and safety shoes to avoid risk of shock. Use electrically insulated handle tools for working or checking electrical systems. Before working, remove jewelry, wristbands, and other conductive items. When working or removing multiple wires, tape off all but the one wire you are working on. Try as much as possible not to work on live systems and even if you do so, be a professional and work carefully, taking all necessary safety precautions and with utmost concentration. During working in a group or pair, organize a toolbox meeting and discuss the procedure, risk, and hazards of the job in hand.Ways to Reduce these Hazards: The following steps should be taken as preventive measures: Cables having E.P.R (Ethylene Propylene Rubber) insulation with necessary sheathing of Poly Chloro Prene or Chloro Sulphonated Polyethylene (PCP or CSP) may be used to protect the insulation against fire. G.I armor may be used to protect insulation from fire but needs to be earthed. By using cables having a high oxygen index number, the number allotted to material depending on the minimum percentage of oxygen required to sustain combustion. If the material used is having an oxygen index number 27, it means that the minimum percentage of oxygen required to burn the material is 27% which is well above the normal atmospheric oxygen percentage of 21%. Thus, the insulation material will not catch fire." ]

[ "Important Precautions for Installation of Electric Cables: The cables and wiring external to the equipment must have flame retardant properties and should be installed in such a manner that it should not interfere with the original flame-retarding properties. Cables and wirings for emergency equipment, lightings, communication, and signals should be kept away from spaces such as galley, laundries, machinery space of category A, and other high-risk areas. Special precautions are to be taken for cable installation in hazardous areas as it might lead to explosion in case of electrical fault. Terminations and joints are to be made in such a manner that they should retain their original fire-resisting properties. Avoid cable damage and chaffing during installation. Fireproof glands are to be used in case of cables passing through the bulkhead to prevent fire from one compartment to another.Always wear protective clothing, rubber gloves, rubber kneepads, and safety shoes to avoid risk of shock. Use electrically insulated handle tools for working or checking electrical systems. Before working, remove jewelry, wristbands, and other conductive items. When working or removing multiple wires, tape off all but the one wire you are working on. Try as much as possible not to work on live systems and even if you do so, be a professional and work carefully, taking all necessary safety precautions and with utmost concentration. During working in a group or pair, organize a toolbox meeting and discuss the procedure, risk, and hazards of the job in hand.Ways to Reduce these Hazards: The following steps should be taken as preventive measures: Cables having E.P.R (Ethylene Propylene Rubber) insulation with necessary sheathing of Poly Chloro Prene or Chloro Sulphonated Polyethylene (PCP or CSP) may be used to protect the insulation against fire. G.I armor may be used to protect insulation from fire but needs to be earthed. By using cables having a high oxygen index number, the number allotted to material depending on the minimum percentage of oxygen required to sustain combustion. If the material used is having an oxygen index number 27, it means that the minimum percentage of oxygen required to burn the material is 27% which is well above the normal atmospheric oxygen percentage of 21%. Thus, the insulation material will not catch fire.Steps to Minimize the Risk of an Electrical Shock: Start with the first round of the day; check all electrical motors, wiring, and switches, for abnormal sounds, variation in temperatures, and loose connections. Ensure that all electrical connections are inside the panel box so that no one can touch them accidentally. In accommodation areas, multiple socket plugs shouldn’t be used. Turn off the breaker before starting any work on an electrical system. Use ply cards and notice boards as much as possible to inform others about the ongoing work to avoid accidental 'starts'. Double check electrical tools such as portable drills for any loose wires before attempting any job." ]