ENGINE ROOM FIRE ON GAS STANDBY VESSEL

At 03:49 this morning, Humber Coastguard was alerted to a fire in the Engine Room of the gas platform standby vessel OCEAN SUN. The vessel is 70 nautical miles ENE of Flamborough Head with gale force 8, easterly winds on scene.
 
The vessel confirmed that the fire had been extinguished at 03:52hrs and had regained power to one engine. However, because of the vital role the standby vessel plays to the gas rig, arrangements are underway to have the vessel replaced by another standby vessel. It is currently thought that it will take at least 18hrs for a relief vessel to arrive.
 
The 58 metre OCEAN SUN is standing by the jack-up rig Ensco 72. The vessel has 12 persons on board. Humber Coastguard is broadcasting Pan Alerts to inform vessels approaching the area of the situation and is putting contingency plans in place to keep the crew and vessel safe until the relief boat arrives.
 
Humber Coastguard Watch Manager, Mike Puplett said:
 
"We are pleased to hear that after the initial fire and subsequent loss of power all the crew are safe. Nevertheless this means that the OCEAN SUN is currently operating with only one engine and there is a real risk to the vessel and crew if something happens to that engine. The MCA Duty Counter Pollution Officer is in touch with the vessel’s owner and we’re working on contingency plans to keep everyone safe until the relief vessel arrives.
 
 -Ends-
 
Notes to Editors
 
• Stay safe - before heading out on the water get trained, check weather and tides, wear a lifejacket, avoid alcohol and keep in touch
                                                                                                                       
• Follow us on Twitter. We can be found at  MCA_media

• The MCA is a partner in the Sea Vision UK campaign to raise awareness and understanding of the sea and maritime activities  http://www.seavisionuk.org/
                                                                                             
For further information please contact
Maritime and Coastguard Agency Press Office, on:
(023) 8032 9401

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