Tragic Fire on FSO Federal II Claims Four Lives in Indonesian Shipyard

A tragic incident unfolded on June 24, 2025, when a fire erupted on the FSO Federal II at the ASL shipyard in Batam, Indonesia, claiming the lives of four workers.2 The blaze, which ignited at approximately 2:15 p.m. local time during maintenance operations, also led to five other workers being hospitalized with severe injuries.3 While the fire was eventually brought under control, the significant loss of life underscores the critical importance of stringent safety protocols in maritime environments.

The 96,000 DWT floating storage and offloading unit is owned by PT Eastern Jason (PTEJ), an associate company of Singapore's Federal International (2000), holding a 30% stake.4 An SGX filing from Federal International (2000) confirmed that the FSO is currently under a seven-year charter agreement with PT Pertamina Hulu Energi OSES, set to run until September 2030.5 The vessel, originally converted into an FSO in 2014, was undergoing a scheduled periodic survey and dry-docking procedure at the Indonesian shipyard when the unfortunate event occurred.6

Investigations into the cause of the fire are now underway. PT Eastern Jason's Indonesian partner, holding a 70% interest in PTEJ, is on-site, actively assessing the damage and gathering information.7 Further details regarding the incident and subsequent actions are expected to be released once the investigation concludes.

Enhancing Safety: The Role of Advanced Cable Technology

This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks in complex industrial operations and the paramount need for robust safety measures, including the use of appropriate materials and equipment. In environments like FSO units and shipyards, where electrical systems are extensive and potential ignition sources are prevalent, the choice of cabling is crucial for mitigating fire hazards.

Traditional cables, when exposed to fire, can release dense smoke and toxic gases, severely hindering evacuation efforts and posing significant health risks.8 This is why Low Smoke Zero Halogen (LSZH) cables are increasingly vital for such applications. Unlike PVC cables, LSZH cables are designed to emit minimal smoke and no toxic halogen gases when combustion occurs.9 This characteristic dramatically improves visibility during a fire, allowing for safer and more efficient evacuation of personnel. Furthermore, the absence of halogen means that corrosive gases, which can damage sensitive electronic equipment and structures, are not produced, leading to less post-fire damage and potentially reducing downtime. Investing in high-quality, fire-resistant cabling, particularly LSZH types, is a proactive measure that can significantly enhance fire safety, protect lives, and preserve assets in the maritime and industrial sectors.

Feichun Cable: Committed to Quality and Safety

At Feichun Cable, we understand the critical role that reliable and safe cabling plays in demanding environments. We are dedicated to manufacturing high-performance cables, including a comprehensive range of Low Smoke Zero Halogen (LSZH) solutions, engineered to meet stringent international safety standards. Our commitment to quality ensures that our cables offer superior fire resistance, minimal smoke emission, and zero halogen release, providing enhanced safety and protection for personnel and infrastructure. Choose Feichun Cable for dependable solutions that prioritize safety and performance.

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