Firefighters tackle blaze on ship at Belfast harbour

Recently, a fire incident occurred at Belfast Harbour, attracting attention to the critical role of emergency responders and safety protocols in industrial settings. Approximately 50 firefighters were swiftly deployed to Harland and Wolff shipyard, where a ship undergoing maintenance caught fire. Fortunately, the incident resulted in no injuries, with all crew safely evacuating and the fire successfully extinguished.

On Thursday evening, emergency services were alerted to a fire onboard a vessel docked at Harland and Wolff shipyard. With its rich maritime history, the shipyard is an integral part of Belfast’s industrial landscape. According to a Facebook post by Harland and Wolff, the fire originated in a tank on the vessel, leading to the detection of smoke and a small fire. Immediate action was taken, with the ship's evacuation and the fire crews' summoning to the Workman Road site.

The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) was pivotal in managing the situation. Specialized teams, including a marine unit and supervisory officers, were deployed to the dry dock. The NIFRS utilized various resources, such as aerial and foam appliances and pumping appliances, to effectively contain and extinguish the fire. Close collaboration between NIFRS and Harland and Wolff ensured a coordinated response throughout the operation. Notably, there were no reported injuries, underscoring the efficacy of the emergency response efforts.

Harland and Wolff emphasized their commitment to prioritizing safety above all else. The shipyard firm expressed gratitude to the NIFRS crews for their swift response and reiterated the paramount importance of personnel safety. This incident serves as a reminder of the inherent risks associated with industrial activities and the need for stringent safety measures. As investigations into the cause of the fire continue, all stakeholders must remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding workplace safety.

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