Introduction
Fire is one of the most serious hazards at sea, posing significant risks to human life, property, and the environment.
Due to the confined nature of ships and the limited availability of external emergency assistance, effective fire protection is essential. Therefore, the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) requires all ships to be equipped with Fixed Fire-Fighting Systems designed to detect, control, and extinguish fires at an early stage.
The requirements for these systems are specified in SOLAS Chapter II-2 and the International Code for Fire Safety Systems (FSS Code), which establish international standards for the design, installation, operation, testing, and maintenance of fire-fighting equipment onboard ships.
Why Effective Fire Protection is Essential
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Protects human life and ensures the safety of everyone on board.
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Protects the ship and valuable equipment from fire damage.
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Protects cargo and prevents loss of property.
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Protects the marine environment by preventing fire and pollution.
Fixed Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) Fire-Extinguishing System
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While water is highly effective in accommodation spaces, it is generally unsuitable for machinery spaces where burning fuel oil and energized electrical equipment are present.
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For these high-risk areas, SOLAS requires a Fixed CO₂ Fire-Extinguishing System.
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A CO₂ flooding system extinguishes fire by reducing the oxygen concentration within an enclosed space below the level required to sustain combustion.
