Fire
Fighting on Board Service Details:
Portable
Fire Extinguishers
-Annual
Service: A certified technician inspects all portable extinguishers.
This includes a visual check of the pressure gauge, an inspection of the hose
and nozzle, and a verification of the extinguisher's type and location.
-5-Year
Hydrostatic Test: Stored-pressure extinguishers must be
hydrostatically tested every 5 years to check for leaks and structural
integrity.
-10-Year
Test and Refill: Powder and CO2 extinguishers are typically
overhauled, hydrostatically tested, and refilled at least every 10 years.
Fixed CO2
and Foam Systems
-Annual
Service: The system's piping, valves, and nozzles are inspected for
damage, corrosion, or blockages. All cylinders are checked for weight loss to
ensure they contain the correct charge. Cylinders with a weight loss exceeding
5% must be refilled.
-5-Year
Service: This is a major service that includes an internal inspection
of the cylinder, a hydrostatic test of the cylinder (10% of cylinders are
tested at the 10-year mark, with a more comprehensive plan after that), and
replacement of flexible hoses and other components.
-10-Year
Hydrostatic Test: As per IMO regulations, CO2 cylinders must be
hydrostatically tested at the 10-year mark and every 10 years thereafter.
Fire Pumps
and Fire Mains
-Weekly/Monthly
Checks: The crew tests the fire pumps (both main and emergency) to
ensure they start and build pressure correctly.
-Annual
Service: A professional service includes:
-Flow and
Pressure Test: The fire main is tested to ensure it can deliver the
required flow and pressure to the furthest and highest hydrants.
-Pump and
Valve Inspection: The pumps, relief valves, and suction/discharge
valves are inspected and serviced.
-Hoses and
Nozzles: All fire hoses are pressure tested to ensure they are free of
leaks and damage. Nozzles and couplings are also inspected.
-5-Year
Renewal: The fire hoses and associated couplings are typically renewed
at a maximum interval of 5 years.
Fire
Detection and Alarm System
-Weekly/Monthly
Checks: The crew visually inspects all detectors and manual call
points.
-Annual
Service: A certified technician tests each fire detector and manual
call point. The system's control panel and batteries are also checked.
-10-Year
Replacement: Smoke detectors and other electronic components are
typically replaced every 10 years.
Firefighter's
Outfit (FFO)
-Weekly/Monthly
Checks: The crew inspects the fireman's outfit for damage. The SCBA
(Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus) pressure gauge is checked, and the
cylinder is visually inspected.
-Annual
Service: The SCBA is professionally serviced, including a full
function test and replacement of seals and O-rings. The hydrostatic test date
on the SCBA cylinder is checked.
-SCBA Cylinder Testing: SCBA cylinders must undergo hydrostatic testing every 3 or 5 years, depending on their material.