Regular drills made all the difference aboard Barði

Last week, a fire broke out in the engine room of Síldarvinnslan's vessel, Barði NK 120, off the Faroe Islands. The incident attracted a lot of attention as it was a serious emergency where quick response and good planning made all the difference in preventing a serious incident. 

Síldarvinnslan has for years placed great emphasis on safety in its operations and uses the Alda safety management system for its fleet, including on board Barði. Síldarvinnslan’s administrators have said that the crew's response prevented a catastrophy from happening, and Theodór Elvar Haraldsson, captain of Barði, said that it was clear that the crew's safety training was crucial in an emergency.

Gísli Níls Einarsson, managing director of Alda Safety, says that the Barði crew has been very active in conducting drills and has recently practiced responding to similar situations as arose on the ship. “I am really proud of the Barði crew and how they responded when the fire broke out. It was their knowledge and training that made the difference,” said Gísli.

Regular fire and rescue drills are among the most important tools that fishing companies have to ensure the safety of their crews. Situations when a fire breaks out on board a ship are never easy, but with targeted drills and clear procedures, responses become more focused and safer when every second counts. When an emergency arises, it is the knowledge and experience built up through such drills that can make the difference.

The incident on board Barði reminds us that emergencies can arise without warning. Therefore, it is important for fishermen to continue to emphasize drills, inspections and active safety management. This is the best way to ensure safety at sea so that everyone returns home safe.