Blackout incidents

The Cefor Technical Forum has issued a memo with recommendations relating to blackout incidents.

To prevent and limit the consequences a number of issues must be addressed. The memo highlights some of these, referring also to a DNV paper from May 2024 where this is further elaborated. Engine alarm systems are particularly highlighted in a study by Lloyd's Register and in safety recommendations from the 'Viking Sky' incident in 2019.

The Forum recommends that attention should be given to the importance of the following: 

• Perform regular drills involving different blackout scenarios. Blackout procedures must be ship-specific and be tested.
• Ensure the correct maintenance and operation of all machinery, electrical installations, and control and safety systems.
• Implement operating procedures for identifying high-risk operations.

In addition: 

• Carry out routine performance and capacity tests of the Auxiliary and Emergency Generators.
• Conduct regular surveys of the switchboards with an infrared camera.

Memo 11-25 Blackout incidents, 10 March 2025