As a specific example of a control failing, the inability of a machine to shutdown can increase the size of any equipment fire event. This can be caused by:
- Failing to design the system to interface with existing control systems
- Poor commissioning or maintenance (not confirming that a shutdown signal from a fire detection system is interpretted as valid by the machine)
- Flammable atmospheres which prevent a shutdown from being effective in a machine with an aspirated engine (i.e. the engine continues to run after a shutdown signal is given and normal fuel supplies are removed)