Fire extinguishers on ships are vital equipment that must be readily available and functioning optimally. The risk of fire at sea is particularly high because ships carry various types of flammable cargo and have enclosed spaces with electrical and fuel installations.
Unlike on land, firefighting assistance at sea is very limited, so the presence of fire extinguishers and trained crews are key factors in maintaining the safety of the ship and everyone on board.
A fire on a ship can be fatal if not addressed promptly. Therefore, every ship must be equipped with a fire protection system in accordance with international regulations, capable of detecting, controlling, and extinguishing fires quickly and efficiently.
Why Are Fire Extinguishers on Ships So Vital?
Fire Risk in the Marine Environment
Ship environments have a high fire potential due to the presence of machinery, fuel, chemical cargo, and complex electrical systems. Fire can spread rapidly in confined spaces such as engine rooms or cabins.
Limited access to external assistance at sea makes the ship’s fire-fighting system the primary defense in emergency situations.
Regulations Governing Fire Extinguishers on Ships
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) requires ships to have adequate fire-fighting equipment. These regulations cover the number, type, and placement of fire-fighting equipment, as well as procedures for regular inspections and crew training.
This standard aims to ensure that every tool is ready to use whenever needed and that the ship’s crew is able to operate it efficiently.
Types of Fire Extinguishers on Ships That Must Be
Light Fire Extinguisher (APAR)
APAR (fire extinguisher) is a portable, high-pressure, cylinder-shaped extinguisher used to tackle small fires. This equipment should be located throughout the ship and easily accessible. There are several types of fire extinguishers, depending on the type of fire:
- Water APAR: for class A fires (solid materials such as wood, paper, cloth).
- Foam fire extinguisher: for class A and B (flammable liquids such as oil or gasoline).
- Dry Chemical Powder Fire Extinguisher: versatile for almost all types of fires (class A, B, C).
- APAR Carbon dioxide (CO₂): effective for class B and E fires (live electrical equipment).
Fire Extinguishing System
Apart from APAR, ships are also required to have fire extinguishing system A fixed fire extinguishing system that is integrated throughout fire-prone areas. This system includes:
- Fire main system (water distribution pipe and valve network),
- Automatic or manual sprinkler,
- System foam, CO₂, halon 1301, up to
- Dry powder system.
The system selected depends on the type of hazard, location, and characteristics of the vessel. This system is designed to control large fires that cannot be handled with fire extinguishers alone.
Fire Hose and Hydrant Ship
Fire hoses are used to channel water from hydrant to the fire point. There are generally two types: suction hoses and pressure hoses. These hoses are connected to the fire main system located throughout the ship.
The size is determined based on the needs and type of ship, and must be in good condition at all times.
Fire hydrants and hoses are a vital part of the manual firefighting system operated by the ship’s crew. Regular maintenance and inspection are essential to ensure these devices are always ready for use in an emergency.
With its height risk fires in the marine environment, fire extinguishers on board ships are not only a regulatory obligation, but also an absolute necessity for operational safety.
Every ship must be equipped with various types of fire extinguishers such as APAR, fixed fire extinguishing systems, as well as fire hoses and hydrants that meet standards.
To ensure your vessel meets fire safety standards, Adiwarna as a fire protection contractor is ready to help provide the best solutions, from system planning, equipment procurement, to installation and training.
Adiwarna is committed to ensuring your safety by providing a reliable fire protection system that complies with international maritime regulations.
