I agree that both society in general and individuals place far too much reliance in machines etc. working. In most cases DESIGN of installations needs to be improved so as to mitigate the consequences of any single failure.
The engines of cruise ships need to be at least duplicated in order that the ship may proceed at reduced speed if one engine fails. The engine installation needs careful design so as to avoid any common point of failure in fuel supply, cooling or electrical systems disabling both engines.
RCDs should be duplicated in particularly high risk situations, and in more normal situations should be tested regularly.
And as regards the apparent failure of the hose reel pump fitted to a fire engine, firemen should be aware of other ways of fighting the fire. One option would be to connect full sized hose to the nearest fire hydrant and use this water directly for fire fighting without a pump. Another possibility would be to fill buckets with water from the appliance tank and apply this water manually to the fire. Or use buckets of water and a stirrup pump.
I agree that both society in general and individuals place far too much reliance in machines etc. working. In most cases DESIGN of installations needs to be improved so as to mitigate the consequences of any single failure.
The engines of cruise ships need to be at least duplicated in order that the ship may proceed at reduced speed if one engine fails. The engine installation needs careful design so as to avoid any common point of failure in fuel supply, cooling or electrical systems disabling both engines.
RCDs should be duplicated in particularly high risk situations, and in more normal situations should be tested regularly.
And as regards the apparent failure of the hose reel pump fitted to a fire engine, firemen should be aware of other ways of fighting the fire. One option would be to connect full sized hose to the nearest fire hydrant and use this water directly for fire fighting without a pump. Another possibility would be to fill buckets with water from the appliance tank and apply this water manually to the fire. Or use buckets of water and a stirrup pump.
