Marine vessels, whether cargo ships, passenger ferries, oil tankers, or fishing boats, are vulnerable to fire hazards due to confined spaces, combustible materials, fuel systems, and electrical components. In the event of a fire at sea, the absence of immediate emergency services makes onboard fire protection not just necessary—it’s life-saving. Ensuring a vessel is equipped with the proper fire fighting equipment is not only a safety measure but a regulatory requirement under international and Malaysian maritime laws.
Understanding the Importance of Marine Fire Safety
Fires onboard marine vessels can escalate rapidly due to limited escape routes, flammable cargo, and complex machinery spaces. Even a minor oversight—such as a fuel leak or a short circuit—can trigger a serious incident. As a result, comprehensive fire fighting systems and portable equipment are mandated by organisations such as the International Maritime Organization (IMO), and enforced locally by authorities such as the Marine Department of Malaysia.
Regulatory Standards for Marine Fire Equipment
The International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) is the primary global standard governing maritime safety. Under SOLAS, vessels must be outfitted with specific fire detection and suppression equipment depending on the type, size, and purpose of the ship.
In Malaysia, marine fire safety is further regulated by the Merchant Shipping Ordinance 1952, and compliance with Marine Department Malaysia’s safety codes is compulsory for both domestic and international operations.
Essential Fire Fighting Equipment on Marine Vessels
Below are the primary fire fighting equipment types required onboard marine vessels:
1. Portable Fire Extinguishers
All vessels are required to have a sufficient number of portable fire extinguishers distributed across various compartments:
- Dry Powder Extinguishers for electrical fires and flammable liquids.
- Foam Extinguishers for oil and fuel fires.
- CO₂ Extinguishers for engine rooms and enclosed electrical spaces.
- Water Extinguishers (where appropriate) for general use on solid combustibles.
Each extinguisher must be approved by the relevant marine safety authority and clearly marked for easy access.
2. Fixed Fire Suppression Systems
Larger vessels, particularly those with engine rooms or cargo holds, are required to have fixed fire suppression systems, which may include:
- CO₂ Fixed Systems: Often installed in engine rooms and machinery spaces, capable of flooding the area with carbon dioxide to suffocate flames.
- Foam Systems: Used for oil tankers and fuel storage areas, foam systems form a barrier between the fuel and oxygen.
- Water Mist Systems: An advanced alternative that uses fine water droplets to cool and suppress fires with minimal water damage.
3. Fire Detection and Alarm Systems
Early detection is critical onboard ships. Fire detection systems must be installed in:
- Engine rooms
- Accommodation areas
- Cargo holds
- Control and navigation centres
These systems typically include smoke detectors, heat sensors, and manual call points connected to a central alarm panel that alerts crew immediately upon detection.
4. Fire Hoses and Hydrant Systems
Marine vessels must have a reliable supply of water accessible through hydrants and hoses:
- Hoses must be stored in clearly marked cabinets.
- They must be long enough to reach any part of the vessel.
- Each hose should be connected to a marine-grade hydrant and fitted with a dual-purpose nozzle for jet and spray functions.
5. Fire Pumps
Marine vessels should have at least one main fire pump and, for larger ships, an additional emergency fire pump:
- These pumps provide high-pressure water to the fire main system.
- The emergency pump must be located in a separate compartment from the main pump to ensure redundancy in case of fire damage.
6. Breathing Apparatus and Firefighter Gear
In enclosed or smoke-filled environments, crew members may need to enter dangerous zones to fight fires or rescue others:
- Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) must be available.
- Firefighter suits, helmets, gloves, and boots are also required.
- These items should be stored in a designated fire locker.
7. Fire Control Plans
All vessels must display a fire control plan at various access points. These plans indicate the locations of:
- Fire extinguishers
- Escape routes
- Emergency exits
- Fire dampers and vents
- Fire doors and watertight compartments
The plan must be regularly updated and reviewed by crew members.
Maintenance and Crew Training
Having the right equipment is only part of the equation. Regular maintenance and crew training are equally crucial:
- Monthly inspections should be carried out to ensure equipment is functional and accessible.
- Annual servicing by certified marine fire safety providers is mandated.
- Crew members must undergo regular fire drills and training on using extinguishers, operating fire pumps, and donning protective equipment.
The Malaysian Marine Department may conduct surprise inspections to verify compliance, and vessels found lacking may face penalties or be barred from sailing.
Final Thoughts
Fire fighting equipment for marine vessels is not optional—it is a critical component of maritime safety. Whether you’re operating a fishing trawler off the coast of Sabah or managing a fleet of international cargo ships, ensuring that your vessels are equipped with the necessary fire safety gear protects not only the ship but also the lives of those on board.
Incorporating a comprehensive fire fighting strategy—covering detection, suppression, and response—is the best defence against one of the most dangerous threats at sea. Regular audits, proper training, and up-to-date equipment ensure that when a fire breaks out, your crew is ready to respond swiftly and effectively.