Inconsistent, incorrect or missing information related to aspects of MPV Everest’s water mist fixed fire-extinguishing system, including the spaces covered by the system and its design/operation, in multiple ship’s documents increased the risk of the crew incorrectly responding to a fire.
The review and update of MPV Everest’s mandatory fire training manual and fire control plan to accurately reflect all relevant aspects of the water mist fixed fire‑extinguishing system’s coverage, activation and operation should adequately address this safety issue.
On 31 August 2023, Maritime Construction Services (MCS) advised the ATSB that following the fire, it commissioned an independent third-party investigation. Subsequently, Fox Offshore was relieved of its responsibilities as the ship’s managers (in October 2021 - about 5 months after the fire), and MCS temporarily took over management of the ship as an interim measure.
In February 2023, MCS appointed Northern Marine Ship Management as MPV Everest’s new managers. MCS advised the ATSB that MPV Everest’s mandatory fire training manual and fire control plan were reviewed and amended to accurately reflect all relevant aspects of the water mist fixed fire-extinguishing system’s coverage, activation and operation.
The ATSB had also provided Fox Offshore a copy of the draft report to allow it the opportunity to review the report and make submissions, but received no response from Fox Offshore.
