Fire on ferry highlights gaps in ship fire-extinguisher inspections
A blaze aboard the ferry Blue Carrier 2 sparked a debate over how Greece checks fire-extinguishing equipment on vessels.
A fire broke out on the ferry Blue Carrier 2 during a voyage that included ports such as Piraeus, Syros, and Kos, drawing attention to the oversight of shipboard fire-extinguishing systems. The Panhellenic Federation of Public Engineers noted that it had sent a letter to the Ministry of Shipping in 2023, alleging that inspections are often carried out by individuals without proper licences. The federation points out that the legal framework combines international SOLAS Chapter II-2, the FSS CODE, and national decree 379/1996, but the ministerial decision 618/43/2005 is the only rule that defines licensing for inspection crews.
It argues that one outlet circular fails to specify qualifications for “trained technicians,” leaving the certification process vague and potentially unsafe. The federation asks who would be liable if a fire-extinguishing system fails, given the questionable legal standing of many certificates.
Why it matters
Ensuring reliable fire-extinguisher checks is vital for passenger safety on Greek ferries.
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