Investigation of Electrical Safety Practices in the Engine Rooms of River Passenger Boats in Kebbi State

Electrical safety in the confined and moisture-prone environment of a river vessel's engine compartment is critical to preventing fire, electrocution, and system failures. This study investigates electrical safety practices among operators of river passenger boats on the Kebbi and Rima rivers in Kebbi State, North West Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was employed, using physical inspection of electrical installations aboard thirty river boats and structured interviews with operators and local mechanics. Inspections assessed wiring insulation condition, earthing arrangements, battery installation practices, circuit protection devices, and bilge pump electrical systems. Findings reveal widespread use of automotive-grade electrical components in a marine environment, which are unsuitable for the humidity and vibration conditions of river operation. Bare conductor splices secured with insulating tape were observed in seven vessels, and over half of the boats lacked functional fuse protection on their main electrical distribution boards. Earthing of electrical systems to the hull was absent on the majority of the sample. One recent fire incident attributed to an electrical fault was documented within the year preceding the survey. Recommendations include development of a simplified electrical standards guide tailored for small river craft operators in the North West zone, training of local boat mechanics in basic marine electrical practices, and incorporation of electrical safety inspection into the annual licensing process administered by the Kebbi State Waterways Board. Keywords: electrical safety, river boats, Kebbi State, marine electrical systems, engine room safety