Fire Fighting Systems

Question 1

Exemption

Answer 1

• Exemption certificate, if issued, as indicated on the Safety Equipment Certificate (SEC):

• Administration exemption certificate for cargo spaces of ships constructed and solely intended for the carriage of ore, coal, grain, unseasoned timber, or non-combustible cargoes which are deemed by the administration to be of low fire risk.
• Granted only if the ship is fitted with steel hatch covers and effective means of closing ventilators and other openings leading to the cargo spaces.
• Verify that a list of cargoes permitted to be carried is attached to the exemption certificate.

Question 2

FF System Exam

Answer 2

Spot-check the following in accordance with reference (b), MSM II:

• Verify fire protection equipment provided for the location or space.
• International shore connection.
• Two pumps are present, including remote start operation.
• There are no excessive leaks from mechanical seal, valves, or flanges.
• The main piping, fittings, and nozzles are in good condition, free of excessive corrosion, pitting, and holes, and unauthorized temporary repairs.
• Adequate pressure is provided at the hydrant per reference (e), SOLAS.
• Fire hose stations.
• Able to deliver firefighting water from two nozzles to all parts of the ship. If there is a doubt, have crew demonstrate.
• Fixed fire-extinguishing system.

Question 3

Space-sealing capabilities where fixed gas systems are present

Answer 3

 Examine the fixed pressure water spraying and water mist fire extinguishing systems.

 System arranged as indicated on fire control and/or general arrangement plan(s).

 Sprinkler pump arranged for automatic activation.

 Flow test pump(s) for proper pressure and capacity.

 Visually inspect sprinkler heads focusing on areas where sprinklers are subject to oily or dirty environments (galley, engine room, purifier room).

 The system’s manual valve(s) are lined up properly ensuring system activates from a remote location as designed, for example, the main freshwater valve.

Question 4

Fixed high-pressure or low-pressure CO₂ extinguishing systems

Answer 4

 System is arranged as indicated in fire control and/or general arrangement plan(s).

 Evaluate testing and inspection procedures required by reference

(xx), Fixed Carbon Dioxide Fire-Extinguishing Systems, MSC.1/Circ. 1318.

 Operating instructions posted at control stations(s).

 Visually examine system components, piping and controls.

 Release controls and distribution valves secured to prevent accidental discharge.

 Alarms and indicators present and operational.

 Safety relief valves present and untampered.

 Verify storage room arrangements including ventilation and space closures for protected space openings.

Question 5

Additional items for low-pressure CO₂ extinguishing systems.

Answer 5

 Refrigeration compressors (primary and alternate) are operational.  Contents of CO₂ tank checked by tank level indicator.

 The system’s manual valve(s) are lined up properly ensuring

system activates from a remote location as designed, for example, the main isolation valve

Question 6

Fixed low-expansion foam extinguishing system (required for deck foam systems).

Answer 6

 System is arranged as indicated in the fire control and/or general arrangement plan(s).

 Verify quantity, concentration, periodic testing and performance of foam concentrate.

 Verify operation of the foam concentrate pump.

 Examine the system’s manual valve(s) are lined up properly ensuring system activates from a remote location as designed, for example, the main sea water valve or foam isolation valves. Refer to reference (yy), for additional guidance.

Question 7

Fixed high-expansion foam extinguishing system.

Answer 7

 System is arranged as indicated in the fire control and/or general arrangement plan(s).

 Verify quantity, concentration, periodic testing and performance of foam concentrate.

 Verify operation of the foam concentrate pump.

 Examine the system’s manual valve(s) are lined up properly, ensuring system activates from a remote location as designed, for example, the main sea water valve or foam isolation valves.