Which is one common cause of fire onboard a ship?

Electrical malfunctions due to faulty wiring is a well-documented common cause of fires onboard ships. Electrical systems on vessels are complex and critical to numerous operations, including lighting, navigation, and safety equipment. If wiring is damaged or improperly installed, it can lead to short circuits or overheating, which can ignite combustible materials nearby, resulting in a fire.

Faulty wiring can stem from various issues such as wear and tear, environmental factors, or poor maintenance practices. This is particularly relevant in an environment like a ship where the wiring may be subject to movement, vibrations, and exposure to moisture, all of which can exacerbate the potential for electrical failure.

In contrast, while spontaneous combustion of cargo, improper storage of food items, and exposure to harsh weather conditions can also lead to fire incidents, they do not represent as consistent or prevalent a risk as electrical malfunctions. Spontaneous combustion is relatively rare and usually only applies to certain types of cargo. Improper food storage primarily poses a risk for hygiene and pest issues rather than fire. Harsh weather conditions can cause other hazards but do not typically initiate fires directly. Therefore, the pervasive nature and risk associated with faulty wiring make it a common cause of fire onboard ships.