DIVE LOG AUSTRALASIA FEB 2025 ISSUE 410

Great Barrier Reef on the January

Mike Ball Dive Expeditions Takes the Lead in Addressing Lithium Battery Fire Risks Lithium battery fires are a growing concern in the marine industry, and Mike Ball Dive Expeditions is committed to pioneering safety solutions. The increasing use of lithium-powered devices, such as underwater cameras, lights, and scooters, while beneficial for divers, presents a significant fire risk. Recognising this challenge, Mike Ball Dive Expeditions has developed a pioneering system for safely charging these batteries on board their vessels. Owner Craig Stephen understands the urgency of this problem. Recent incidents involving devastating fires on vessels in the US and the Red Sea have underscored the importance of proactive safety measures. To address these challenges, the Engineering Department at Mike Ball Dive Expeditions designed and implemented a custom-built charging station that takes a multi-layered approach to safety. Strategically located on the dive deck, the system incorporates advanced features such as fire-retardant and self-extinguishing materials, ventilation to disperse smoke, and a simple design for rapid removal in emergencies. These engineering solutions reflect the department’s unwavering dedication to the safety of passengers, crew, and equipment. Key features of this innovative charging station: • Containment: The box is constructed from fire-retardant and self-extinguishing materials, which are designed to contain a fire and prevent it from spreading. • Ventilation: The open-air environment of the dive deck allows for smoke dispersal, reducing the risk of exposure to toxic fumes. • Easy Removal: The box is designed to be quickly detached and thrown overboard in case of a fire. It is a "simple" design with "no moving parts" like hinges or doors to ensure quick access. • Large Capacity: The box is specifically sized to accommodate the largest scooter batteries, ensuring that all high-risk devices can be charged safely. This size was decided upon after careful consideration of the various batteries used by guests, with the largest scooter battery serving as the benchmark. • Thoughtful Design: The design incorporates considerations for thermal expansion to prevent the box from jamming if it gets hot. • Testing and Refinement: The team is dedicated to the ongoing testing and refinement of the system, which includes conducting fire drills with a float to simulate a real fire scenario and carefully monitoring the electrical circuits for any signs of overload. The dive deck location was chosen for several reasons: • The open space and airflow help to dissipate smoke in case of a fire. • It is close to where the dive scooters and other equipment using large batteries are used. • The location provides immediate access to the water for quick disposal of the box in an emergency. This innovative charging station is just one example of Mike Ball Dive Expeditions' ongoing dedication to passenger and crew safety. By combining practical engineering with a proactive approach to risk management, the company continues to set the standard for responsible diving practices.

PHOTOS FROM NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

1st. Mate Rudas

2nd. Oscar Stachelberg

3rd. Torin Kelderman

Glass out Far North Coral Sea Exploratory at Green Beret.

Mike Ball’s fire-safe charging station ensures diver safety with fire-retardant materials, ventilation, and quick removal on the dive deck.

Check out availability of Expeditions on Spoilsport. www.mikeball.com/availability