MODULE-Basic Safety
MODULE-Basic Safety
MODULE-Basic Safety
FOR
BASIC TRAINING
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER
8 Extinguishing Smaller Fires , E.G., Electrical Fires, Oil Fires, Propane Fires
9 Extinguishing Extensive Fire with Water With The Use of Jet and Spray Nozzles
10 Extinguishing Fire with Foam, Powder or any other Suitable Chemical Agent
13 Extinguishing Fire with Water Fog or any other Suitable Fire-Fighting Agent in an
Accommodation Room or Simulated Engine-Room with Fire and Heavy Smoke
14 Extinguishing Oil Fire with Fog Applicator and Spray Nozzles, Dry Chemical Powder or Foam
Applicators
The Refresher Course for Basic Training covers the requirements of the Manila Amendments to the
International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978 (STCW
Convention) and the Seafarer's Training, Certification and Watchkeeping Code (STCW Code), in paragraph 3 of
section A-VI/1, that seafarers qualified in accordance with paragraph 2 in basic training shall be required, every
five years, to provide evidence of having maintained the required standard of competence, to undertake the
tasks, duties and responsibilities listed in column 1 of tables A-VI/1-1 and A-VI/1-2, by attendance at an
approved course which, for this purpose, is by undergoing a Refresher Training for Basic Safety Approved by
Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), the designated Administration in the implementation of the said STCW
Convention and STCW Code.
This Refresher training shall be conducted for the duration of sixteen (16) hours, it will comprise two (2) distinct
modules of eight (8) hours each, i.e., Personal Survival Techniques (PST) and Fire Prevention of Fire Fighting
(FPFF), with the exception of some on board training and experiences considered as having maintained the
required standard of competence.
This course is open to all seafarers who have previously been certified in Basic Training and are capable of
meeting the physical and professional eligibility requirements for STCW certification.
Part of the mandatory basic training for all seafarers, split into both theory and practical, including launching,
entering and righting a life raft, actions to be taken for self-protection in emergency situations, survival at sea
and deployment of safety equipment.
Its aim is to provide seafarers the essential knowledge and training in personal survival techniques, particularly
focusing on: understanding the main types of maritime emergencies, correct use of survival equipment
particularly life-jackets, immersion suits and inflatable life rafts as well as the principles of survival.
This is a part of the mandatory ‘Refresher Course for Basic Training’ and its aim is to give seafarers the
essential education and training in fire prevention and fire fighting, particularly focusing on:
• understanding the risk of fire onboard and how to minimize those risks
• learning how to fight and extinguish fires as well as search for and recover casualties
• learning how to wear firefighting equipment including personal breathing apparatus and safe use of fire
extinguishers
1. EMERGENCY SITUATIONS
1.1. Emergency – a sudden or unexpected occurrence which needs an immediate action, remedy or
solution
As stated previously, an accident or emergency such as fire will be quickly resolved if the correct
thing is done in the very first few minutes. However, if a small emergency is not dealt with
immediately, it can develop into a life threatening and potential ship loss situation.
Proper initial action upon discovering an emergency such as fire or flooding can be the difference
between the loss of the ship and saving the ship.
2. TYPES OF EMERGENCIES
2.1. Fire
TYPICAL INITIAL ACTION:
• alarm
• bring fire extinguisher
• contain
• describe
2.2. Flooding
TYPICAL INITIAL ACTION:
• alarm
• contain
• describe
Precautions
Taking precautions to prevent such emergencies is everyone’s responsibility. Being prepared, knowing
where to go, what to do and how to do it when an emergency arises are absolutely essential beforehand.
The effectiveness of how an emergency is handled depends greatly on the expertise and training of all
personnel. In order to cope with an emergency situation the best way is to plan ahead.
Dramatically increase the possibility. The moment you board a vessel, either as a passenger or a
crewmember, the odds of finding your life in danger are increased.
This is the main purpose of the STCW courses. By attending religiously the theoretical instruction
and participating actively in practical training and drills onboard you become equipped for survival.
It will not only be a sound advice but strong psychological support under survival conditions to
remember the letters keyed to the word…
S–U–R–V–I–V–A–L
But fear must be harnessed and properly channeled or it can lead to panic. Panic is the most
destructive response to a survival situation. Energy is wasted, rational thinking is impaired or
destroyed altogether, and positive steps to one’s survival become impossible. Panic can lead to
hopelessness, which can begin to break down one’s will to survive.
Several positive mental steps can be taken to make fear and ally and panic impossibility. As
mentioned above, preparation and knowledge of survival techniques instill confidence and lead to
control of one’s self as well as one’s environment. In addition, it is important to occupy your mind
immediately with an analysis of the situation and the survival tasks at hand.
Life-Saving Appliances
Life-saving appliances and equipment will approve your chances of survival when shipwreck or other damage or
accident occurs. You must know where its location, know how to don and use the equipment or combination of
equipments in a situation at sea.
An immersion suit is a body covering suit that is worn specifically for the purpose of remaining afloat and
surviving during emergencies in high seas. This suit is therefore also known as a survival suit or a rescue suit.
In today’s times, an immersion suit is one of the most important necessities on ships and oil rigs, considering
the protection needed from the hazards of water.
Immersion suits are generally made of neoprene, a type of rubber that is completely waterproof and has an
ability to withstand extreme temperatures of water and fire. The immersion suit fits the person’s body without
exposing any part to the water. It also has a protective hood to cover the head and comes along with protective
gloves.
An immersion suit is a protective suit that reduces the body heat loss of a person in cold water. IMO requires
that suits, when functioning and worn properly, prevent the reduction of body heat loss to the extent that the
body temperature of a person staying in 00C cold water does not fall to less than 35 degree C after 6 hours.
A body temperature of 350C is dangerous because the person get apathetic as a consequence of this. An
immersion suit is a piece of personal equipment that should always be available for crew not only in northern
waters but also in relatively warm water.
Immersion suits are available in numerous design and fabrics, with or without insulation. A suit with a well
insulating hood and gloves is recommended. The heat loss from the head and hands is substantial. A good suit
may not function with a poor hood and poor gloves. Yet, poor suits with little or no insulation function
reasonably with a good hood and good gloves.
In January 6, 2016, this circular, carriage requirement of immersion suits on cargo ships had been change as
per Regulation III/32.3.2 (Immersion suits and thermal protective aids) of SOLAS 74 currently requires
passenger and cargo ships to carry 3 immersion suits for each non-enclosed lifeboat carried on the ship and
should be available to every person assigned to crew the rescue boat.
Knowledge in jumping safely into the water from a height which is not more than 4.5m
One of the biggest threats associated with jumping from heights is the speed you build up before you hit the
water. If your body isn't perfectly positioned, hitting the water at these speeds could cause compression
fractures, as well as spinal injuries and concussions.
It is therefore safe to jump into the water while wearing a lifejacket from a height which is not more than 4.5m.
Climb up and down wearing a lifejacket in vertical ladder at least 5m in length before
jumping
The proper way and the points to bear in mind before jumping into the water with a lifejacket is to:
- ensure that lifejacket is securely tied and hold it down by crossing arms over chest
- block off nose and mouth with one hand
- keep feet together or crossed
- check below to avoid obstructions
- look straight ahead
- jump feet first
LIFEJACKET
If a person is not wearing a lifejacket and loses consciousness in the water he will have a natural buoyancy of
about 1.5 kg provided he has not swallowed any seawater. His head will have tendency to fall forward and his
buoyancy will be concentrated mostly in the seat area. This can be counteracted by the use of artificial
buoyancy a lifejacket correctly positioned and secured on the body.
Lifejackets have the ability and are intended for an emergency situation to save the life of person lying in the
water. They must be able to turn the body of an unconscious person in the water from any position to one
where the mouth is clear of the water is not more than 5 seconds. In order to do this, however, they must be an
approved lifejacket, free from defects and worm properly.
On passenger ship, in addition to a lifejacket for every person on board and number of additional jackets for
persons on watch, there shall be lifejackets carried for not less than 15% at the total number of person on
board. These lifejackets shall be stowed in conspicuous places on deck or at muster stations.
Lifejacket Equipment
• Each lifejacket shall be fitted with a light and whistles.
• The light can be activated automatically and manually depending on what type is on your jacket. One is
activating upon contact to the water, the other must be switched on. The light should last in excess of 12
hours. It can be flashing or fixed.
• The whistle (an audible device used to attract attention) shall be firmly secured to each lifejacket by a cord.
The whistle draws attention by sound. It takes less energy to attract attention by blowing the whistle than
yelling. It can also be heard at a greater distance.
• Lifejackets also have reflective patches for maximum visibility. They are designed to attract the
• attention of searchers using spotlight.
Due to the bulkiness of a lifejacket, you will need to ensure a proper fit before attempting to swim. In case you
are in the water and without a lifejacket, then you could do the following;
1. Take position that water is up at neck level
2. Keep both legs up
3. Tilt head back toward the water
4. Kick both legs {fully extend legs while keeping them underneath the water}
5. Keep on kicking up and down
6. Extend arms out in the water
7. Slowly fan arms out to both sides
8. Make a large half-circle motion
LIFERAFT
A liferaft is usually made of wood or an inflatable material and designed for use by people forced into the water.
Life rafts are provided as a life-saving appliances on every sea going merchant or passenger vessel in addition
to the lifeboats. Life rafts are much easier to launch as compared to life boats and in case of emergency
situation, evacuation from the ship can be done without manually launching any of them as the life rafts are
designed with auto inflatable system. SOLAS chapter III gives all the details for types and number of life raft to
be carried as per the size and type of the ship.
Life rafts are normally located on muster station, on port and starboard side near the life boat and fore and aft
of the ship. The location generally depends on size of the ship. Life rafts are stored in a fiberglass container,
incorporated with a high pressure gas used for inflating life raft at the time of emergency. A Hydrostatic
Release Unit (HRU) is connected to raft container and ship, which release the raft even after the ship sinks in
water.
Types of Liferaft
• Rigid liferaft
• Inflatable liferaft:
‐ Davit launched liferaft
‐ Throw overboard liferaft
Rigid liferafts
Liferafts are also made of rigid cork type material. They usually have a mesh net attached and lifelines.
Capacity will be marked clearly. These are more common on small commercial vessels.
Inflatable liferafts
The inflatable liferafts is the most common type of liferafts and forms the secondary lifesaving appliance in the
majority of ships. In some classes of vessels liferaft are the main form of life saving equipment.
Liferafts complying with the 1974 SOLAS Convection are made of different sizes from 6 persons to 25 person
capable of being launched by standard throw overboard procedures or by davits. For small craft, principality
those used for pleasure purposes, liferafts for four persons are procedure to meet national regulations.
Larger liferafts of 35, 45 and 50 person capabilities are found on large, high-density passenger and ferry
vessels.
If you need to jump into the water survivors should jump from the lowest point and then swim to the survival
craft. Likewise, you could use the embarkation ladder, pilot ladder or anything on board which could be used to
lessen the height distance from the water such as: rescue net, cargo net or any ropes or lines. Before jumping,
ensure that life jackets are correctly put on. Loose or wrongly fitted life jackets can break necks!
• Floating Technique
a. Back Float – the best relaxing float.
b. Prone Float – eyes open to see underwater or head high to observe.
c. Jellyfish or Tuck Float – used to remove shoes or to relieve from foot cramps.
d. Dead Man’s Float – play like a dead man with both arms and legs relaxed.
e. Treading Water – body is upright, useful when stopping to observe
f. Sculling – arms are used alone.
MEANS OF SURVIVAL
• Once in the water, whether accidentally or by ship abandonment, orient yourself and try to locate the ship,
lifeboats, life rafts, and other survivors or other floating objects.
• If you were unable to prepare yourself before entering the water, button up clothing. Now, in cold water you
may experience violent shivering and great pain. These are natural body reflexes that are not dangerous.
You do, however, need to take action as quickly as possible before you lose full use of your hands. Closed
tightly clothing, turn on signal lights, locate whistle, etc.
Fire extinguisher is an appliance containing an extinguishing medium which can be expelled by the action of
internal pressure and be directed into a fire. This pressure may be stored pressure or obtained by a chemical
reaction, or be obtained by release of gas from a cartridge.
Extinguishing medium is the substance contained in the extinguisher the action of which causes extinction of
fire.
Operating principle of portable extinguisher and the class of fire each type is suitable
Portable fire extinguisher is one which is designed to be carried and operated by hand and which in working
order has a total weight of not more than 21 kg.
Portable extinguisher can be carried to the fire area for a fast attack. However, they contained a limited supply
of extinguishing agent. The agent is quickly expelled from the extinguisher; in most cases, continuous
application can be sustained for only a minute or less. For this reason, it is extremely important to back up the
capacity to put the fire out completely, the hose line can be used to finish the job. However, a crewman who is
using an extinguisher cannot advance a hose line at same time. Thus, the alarm must be sound as soon as fire
discovered, to alert the ship’s personnel to the situation.
There is a right way to use a portable fire extinguisher, and there many wrong ways. Crewmen who have little
training with these appliances waste extinguishing agent through improper application. At the same time,
untrained personnel tend to overestimate their extinguishing ability. Periodic training sessions including
practice with the type of extinguishers carried on board, are the best insurance against inefficient use of this
equipment. Extinguishers that are due to be discharged and inspected may be used in these training sessions.
A. Cartridge - Operated Water extinguisher. The extinguisher is carried to the fire scene then inverted and
bumped against the deck. This ruptures the CO2 cylinder and expels the water. The stream should be
directed at the seat of the fire. The nozzle should be moved back and forth to quench as much of the
burning material as possible in the short time available. The entire content of the extinguisher must be
discharged, since the flow cannot be shut off. Manufacture of this type has been discontinued, thus, may
not be seen on board.
B. Pin Type Cartridge- Operated Extinguisher. A newer version of cartridge-operated water extinguisher need
to be inverted for use. Instead, a pin is pulled out of cartridge, with the extinguishing upright. A lever is
squeezed to discharge the extinguishing agent (water or anti – freeze solution). The cartridge is fitted with
a pressure gauge. The gauge should be checked periodically to ensure that the cartridge pressure is within
its operating range. Otherwise, maintenance is similar to that for the inverting – type cartridge
extinguisher.
C. Stored – Pressure Water Extinguisher. The extinguisher is the most commonly used portable fire-fighting
appliance. The 9.5 liter (21/2 gal) size has an NFPA rating of 2A. It weighs about 13.6kg 30lbs and has a
horizontal range of 10.7 -12.2m (25-40ft). In continuous operation, it will expand its water in about 55
seconds. However, it may be used intermittently. To extend its operation time. The container is filled with
water or an antifreeze solution, to within about 15cm (6in) of the top. (Most extinguisher have a fill mark
stamped on the container). The screw-on cap holds a lever-operated discharge valve, a pressure gauge
and an automobile tire – type valve. The extinguisher is pressurized through the air valve, with either air or
an inert gas such as nitrogen the normal charging pressure is about 690 kilopascals (100 psi). The gauge
allows the pressure within the extinguisher to be checked at any time. Most gauges are color code to
indicate normal and abnormal pressures.
Operation. The extinguisher is carried to the fire, and the ring pin or
other safety device is removed. The operator aims the nozzle with one
hand and squeezes the discharge lever with the other hand. The stream
should be directed at the seat of the fire. It should be moved back and
forth to ensure complete coverage of the burning material. Short burst
can be used to conserve the limited supply of water.
As the flames are knocked down, the operator may move closer to the
fire. Then, by placing the tip of one finger over the nozzle, the operator
can obtain a spray pattern that will cover a wider area.
Foam extinguisher are similar in appearance to those discuss previously, but they have a greater extinguishing
capability. The most common size is 9.5 liters (2 ½ gal), with an NFPA rating of 2A:4B*. This indicates that the
extinguisher may be used on both class A and B fires. It has range of about 9.2 – 12.2 m (30-40ft) and
discharge duration of slightly less than in a minute.
The extinguisher is charged by filling it with two solution that are kept separated (in the extinguisher) until it is
to be used. These solutions are commonly called the A and B solutions; their designations have nothing to do
with fire classifications.
• The numerical indicates either the relative of the extinguisher or its size. This does not mean the size of fire
on which to use the extinguisher; rather, the numeral indicates how well the extinguisher will fight a fire of
its class
Operation. The foam extinguisher is carried to the fire right side up and then inverted. This mixes the two
solutions, producing a liquid foam and CO2 gas. The CO2 acts as the propellant and fills the foam bubbles. The
liquid foam expands to about 8 times its original volume; this means the 9.5 liter (2 ½ gal) extinguisher will
produce 68-76 liters (18-20gal) foam.
The foam should be applied gently on burning liquids. This can be done by directing the stream in front of the
fire, to bounce the foam onto the fire. The stream also may be directed against the back wall of a tank or a
structural member to allow the foam to run down and flow over the fire. Chemical foam is stiff and flows
slowly. For this reason, the stream must be directed to the fire from several angles, for complete coverage of
the burning materials.
For fires involving ordinary combustible materials, the foam may be applied in the same way, as a blanket. Or,
the force of the stream may be used to get the foam into the seat of the fire. Foam extinguisher is subject to
freezing and cannot be stowed in low temperatures below 4.4 0C (400F). Once activated, this extinguisher will
expel their entire foam content; it should all be directed onto the fire.
3. Powder Extinguisher
Operation. The extinguisher is carried and used upright. The ring pin is removed, and the puncturing
lever is depressed. This releases the propellant gas, which forces the extinguishing agent up to the
nozzle. The flow of dry chemical is controlled with squeeze-grip-On-Off nozzle at the end of the hose.
The discharge is directed at the seat of the fire, starting at the near edge. The stream should be
moved from side to side with rapid motions, to sweep the fire off the fuel. On a weather deck, the fire
should be approached from the windward side if possible. The initial discharge should not be directed
onto the burning material from close range (0.91-2.4m). The velocity of the stream may scatter the
burning material.
• Stored – pressure Dry Chemical Extinguisher. These are extinguishers available in the same sizes as
cartridge-operated types. They have the same ranges and durations of discharge are use in the same
way. The only difference is that the propellant is mixed in with the dry chemical in the stored-pressure
type. And the extinguisher is controlled with a squeeze-grip trigger on the top of the container. A
pressure gauge indicates the condition of the charge.
Operation. The nozzle is removed from its retainer, and the puncture lever is pressed. This allows the
propellant gas (CO2 or nitrogen) to activate the extinguisher. The operator then aims the nozzles and
squeezes the grips to apply the powder to the surface of the burning metal.
The operator should begin the application of dry powder from the maximum range 1.8–2.4 m (6–8 ft.).
The squeezes may be adjusted for the desired rate of flow, to build a thick layer of powder over the entire
involved area, the operator must be careful not to break the crust that forms when the powder hits the fire.
A large amount of dry powder is sometimes needed to extinguish a very small amount of burning metal. A
brown discoloration indicates a hot spot, where the layer of dry powder is too thin. Additional agent should
be applied as gently as possible, so the force of the discharge does not scatter burning chips.
Class D dry powder also comes on a container, for application with a scoop or shovel. Here, too, the agent
should be applied very gently. A thick layer of powder should be built up and the operator should be
careful not to break the crust that forms.
The dry powder extinguisher is operated in an upright position. The agent must be applied gently, to
maintain a crust on the burning metal.
Operation. The extinguisher is carried to the fire in an upright position. (The short range of the CO2
extinguisher means the operator must get fairly close to the fire). The extinguisher is placed on the deck,
and locking pin is removed. The discharged is controlled either by opening a valve or by squeezing two
handles together.
The operator must grasp the hose handle, and not discharge horn. The CO 2 expands and cools very
quickly as it leaves extinguisher. The horn gets cold enough to frost over and cause severe frostbite. When
CO2 extinguisher is used in a confined space, the operator should guard against suffocation by wearing
breathing apparatus.
Class B Fires. The horn should be aimed first at the base of the fire nearest the operator. The discharge
should be moved slowly back and forth across the fire. At the same time, the operator should move
forward slowly, the result should be a ”sweeping” of the flames off the burning surface, with some carbon
dioxide “snow” left on the surface.
Whenever possible, a fire on a weather deck should be attacked from the windward side. This will allow
the wing to blow the heat away from the operator and to carry the CO 2 to the fire. Generally, CO2
extinguishers do not perform well in a wind. The blanket of CO 2 gas done not remain in the fire long
enough to permit the fuel to cool down.
Class C fires. The discharge should be aimed at the source of a fire that involves electrical equipment. The
equipment should be de-energized as soon possible to eliminate the chance of shock and source of
ignition.
Recharging is also required to take place after every use and if the need is identified during maintenance or
inspection. Maintenance, servicing, and recharging, are to be performed by trained persons having available the
appropriate servicing manual(s), the proper types of tools, recharging materials, lubricants, and manufacturer’s
recommended replacement parts or parts specifically listed for use in the fire extinguishers.
It is important to know what material needs to be refilled, as it would be detrimental if a cylinder was refilled
with water when it should have been filled with dry powder chemicals. The time to find out is not when the
flames are already present.
Make sure that the tubing, hose, nozzle, "O" ring, which seals the bottle shut, and stripping of the seal are all
intact. If they show any sign of significant wear and tear, are weak and brittle or are clogged, now is the time to
either replace the single parts or consider buying a whole new extinguisher. Check the seal to make sure it is
tight by submersing it in water. If you see bubbles escaping, there is a leak. Either retighten or replace the "O"
ring.
Regardless of what product is being used, fill the extinguisher up to the predetermined level on the cylinder and
use a pressuring machine to put the contents under pressure until the dial reads in the green zone, or about 100
to 175 psi, depending on the type of extinguisher you possess.
Finishing It Off
Once the material has been added into the cylinder and put under the proper pressure, all that is left to do is
seal the extinguisher properly. Again, test for leaks by submersing it in water to see if bubbles escape, and
readjust as necessary.
Finally, tag the extinguisher with the recharge date, the amount of pressure it was put under and the name of
the person who completed the process.
A portable foam applicator unit shall consist of a foam nozzle of an inductor type capable of being connected
to the fire main by a fire hose, together with a portable tank containing at least 20 liters of foam- forming liquid
and one spare tank of foam making liquid.
The nozzle shall be capable of producing effective foam suitable for extinguishing an oil fire, at the rate of at
least 1.5 m3/min.
It might also consist of a metal L -shaped pipe, the long limb being about 2M in length capable of being fitted to
fire hose and the short limb being about 250mm in length fitted with a fixed water fog nozzle or capable of
being fitted with a water spray nozzle.
Required as per SOLAS II-2/10.5.1.2.1 and 10.5.2.2.1. Intended to lay down a blanket of foam in case of an oil
fire in machinery spaces.
To use a fire extinguisher correctly, experts say that one should remember the acronym P.A.S.S.:
P – Pull the pin. This will also break the tamper seal.
A – Aim low, pointing the extinguisher nozzle (or its horn or hose) at the base of the fire. Stand approximately
8 feet away
S – Squeeze the handle/trigger to release the extinguishing agent
S – Sweep from side to side at the base of the fire until it appears to be out. Watch the area. If the fire re-
ignites, repeat previous steps
Fire class is a term used to denote the type of fire, in relation to the combustion materials which have (or could
be) ignited. This has onward impacts on the type of suppression or extinguishing materials which can be used.
Class letters are often assigned to the different types of fire, but these differ between territories. There are
separate standards in the United States, Europe, and other countries.
CLASSES OF FIRES
U. S. STANDARD DESCRIPTION EUROPE STANDARD DESCRIPTION
CLASS A Combustible materials CLASS A Combustible materials
CLASS B Flammable liquids CLASS B Flammable liquids
CLASS B Flammable gases CLASS C Flammable gases
CLASS C Electrical fires CLASS D Flammable metals
CLASS D Flammable metals CLASS E Electrical fires (not classified)
CLASS K Cooking oils and fats CLASS F Cooking oils and fats
Fires are always confined to indoors at the initial stage and do not spread very far. It is the best time to put out
a fire when it first ignites. As long as it is detected timely, it can be put out by just a few people with some fire-
fighting equipment. Otherwise, with the extension of burning time and the increase of temperature, the
surrounding combustible materials and building components can be heated rapidly. Air convection will
increase, the burning speed will accelerate and the burning area will expand rapidly. As a result, the burning
stage is formed and the fire becomes difficult to control. If the flame has already gotten out of the doors,
windows and roofs and the partial building components are burned, gases and smoke will fill in the house. The
fire will break through and extend to a violent stage and become hard to extinguish only by individuals.
Therefore, considerable force and appropriate measures should be taken in the initial phase to control and
extinguish the fire so that crew and passenger’s life as well as the cargo and the vessel’s safety can be
secured.
When a fire ignites, it is small and controllable that you can extinguish it with simple and easy fire-fighting tools,
such as yellow sands, soils, cement, slag, lime, iron plates, lids, wet quilts, wet sacks and simple water
containers including buckets, pots, basins and tanks. In addition, you can use whatever can fight the fire at the
initial stage such as the brooms, mops, clothes, slippers, gloves and other objects.
At initial stage, it may be small enough that you can extinguish it with a fire blanket or a fire extinguisher on
hand. By being prepared and quickly determining the type of fire with which you’re dealing, you have an even
better chance of not only extinguishing the fire but also of doing it without risking injury. However, remember
that the safety of everyone in the proximity—including you—comes first. If the fire is quickly spreading,
Overview:
Water extinguishers are the most common fire extinguisher type for class-A fire risk. Most premises will
require either water or foam extinguishers.
Overview:
Foam extinguishers are most common type of fire extinguisher for Class B fires, but also work on Class A
fires as they are water-based.
Overview:
Wet chemical fire extinguishers are ideal for Class F fires, involving cooking oils and fats, such as lard,
olive oil, sunflower oil, maize oil and butter
Overview:
Multipurpose dry chemical or ABC fire extinguishers contain a specially fluidized and siliconized mono
ammonium phosphate chemical. It could be used on fires from flammable gases
Overview:
CO2 fire extinguishers are best for Class-C or E fires. Live electrical equipment, although it allows re-
ignition of hot plastics. Do not use on chip or fat pan fires, as it can carry burning fat out of the container.
This type of extinguisher does not cool the fire very well and you need to ensure that the fire does not start
up again. Fumes from CO2 extinguishers can asphyxiate if used in confined spaces: ventilate the area as
soon as the fire has been controlled. Only use CO 2 extinguishers with frost-free horns, as the hand holding
the horn can otherwise be frozen to the horn, as the gas gets very cold during the discharge.
How to Use:
The discharge horn should be directed at the base of the flames and the jet kept moving across the area
of the fire.
A
Ordinary YES
combustibles: YES NO NO YES YES
Excellent
Wood, paper, cloth,
etc.
B
Flammable Liquids:
Oil, paint, fat, etc. YES
YES NO YES NO NO
Excellent
Flammable Gases:
Propane Butane,
etc.
C
Energized YES
YES NO NO NO NO
Electrical Excellent
Fires
D
Combustible
Metals YES
NO NO NO NO NO
Sodium, Excellent
Magnesium,
Titanium
F NO NO NO NO NO
YES
Fat, Cooking Oil Excellent
Some fires may be purely accidental, and other may be cause by circumstances beyond control. But many fires
have resulted from the acts or omissions of crew members. Carelessness and irresponsible or ill – advised
actions have caused disastrous fires. And omissions – not taking the proper preventive measures when
hazardous situations are discovered – have allowed many fires “just to happen”. The following are some of the
most common causes of fire aboard ship or on land.
1. Careless Smoking
This is at top of every list of fire causes but some simply do not care or do not realize that this is
dangerous.
No Smoking Areas – Cargo holds and weather deck. The best way to deal with cargo hold fires is to
prevent them. This means:
1. Smoking must be prohibited in cargo hold at all time.
2. Cargo hold should be posted as “NO SMOKING AREAS”
Holds should be monitored closely during loading and unloading operations
F. Electrical Motors
Problems may result when a motor is not properly maintained or when it exceeds its useful life.
Motor require regular inspection, testing, lubricating and cleaning.
G. Engine Motors
Engineering staff must closely monitor oil lines for leaks.
3. CARGO STOWAGE
Even the most dangerous can be transported safely if it is properly stowed. On the other hand, supposedly
“safe” cargo can cause a fire if it is stowed improperly.
There should be “a place for everything and everything in its place”. This in itself is a fire prevention
measure, provided the stowage in safe to start with. Fires have resulted when stowed materials become
loose, fell and slid across a deck in rough weather. Loose equipment can ruptures a fuel lines, damage
essential machinery and smash electrical equipment, causing short circuit.
4. DEEP FRYERS
Deep fryers can also be a source of both heat and fuel for a galley fire. The fryers should be stationary so
that it cannot shift with vessel movements. Most important, the fryers should never be left unattended
while it is operating.
A fire hose (or fire hose) is a high-pressure hose that carries water or other fire retardant (such as foam) to
a fire to extinguish it. Outdoor, it attaches either to a fire engine or a fire hydrant. Indoors, it can permanently
attach to a building's standpipe or plumbing system. While aboard ship it is to be connected at fire hydrant.
The usual working pressure of a fire hose can vary between 8 and 20 bar (800 and 2,000 kPa; 116 and 290 psi)
while per the NFPA 1961 Fire Hose Standard, its bursting pressure is in excess of 110 bar, (11,000kPa; 1600psi)
After use, a fire hose is usually hung to dry, because standing water that remains in a hose for a long time can
deteriorate the material and render it unreliable or unusable.
Next to the bucket, fire hose is the oldest and the most method of fire suppression found aboard ship. There
are three basic construction method: 1. Braided 2. Wrapped 3. Woven. It is either single or double jacket,
with or without rubber lining. Nowadays, new materials are becoming increasingly common such as nylon,
rayon or polyester.
It is a connector attach at both ends of fire hose. There are many couplings. They are usually either with:
• thread
• lugs
• internal pins
• external pins
All nozzles on board ships shall be of the jet/spray incorporating a shut off.
Standard nozzle sizes are 12mm, 16mm, 19mm although approval may be given for
larger sizes.
Fireman’s Outfit
The suit is a two-piece garment with a four-layer construction. The outer shell is aramid. The second layer is a
tape which can be fitted to the wrists, hem and ankles. Optional radio and thigh pockets can be fitted as well as
waterproof breathable membrane. The third layer is a meta-aramid/para-aramid felted thermal barrier and the
fourth layer is a modacrylic/Lenzing lining. The jacket has a stand up collar, elasticated cuffs and is closed by a
zip covered by an overlapping front with touch and close fastening to the front and collar. The trousers have
wide elasticated braces with adjusters and quick-release buckles. Optional fire resistant retro reflective.
It is mainly used for firefighters to enter the fire detection to find the source of fire, and rescue the persons who
trapped in enclosed spaces, or to do the firefighting tasks.
The fire main system supplies water to all areas of the vessel. Fortunately, the supply of waters at sea is
limitless. The movement of the water to the fire location is restricted only by the system itself, the effect of the
water on the stability of the ship and the capacity of the supply pumps.
The fire main system is composed of the fire pumps, piping (main and branch lines), control valves, hose and
nozzles. The pumps provide the power to move water through the piping to fire stations located throughout the
vessel. The valve, hoses and nozzles are used to control the fire-fighting water and direct it into the fire.
The system can then be used to deliver water to all parts of the system. Isolation valves are sometimes
located on the main pipeline, forward of each hydrant location, they are used to control the water flow
when a break occurs in the system. Some single loop systems have isolation valves for the fore and aft
decks only.
A. Spray
When water is applied as a spray it produces its most efficient cooling action. Water, in the
form of a spray, can also be used to drive smoke or gas. An example of this would be using spray to drive
smoke from an engine room. This requires an action similar to a syringe where a water spray from one
end of the engine moves towards the other. For this to work there must be a smoke exit point at the
opposite end of the engine room to the spray.
B. Jet
In firefighting jets is not often use. The main reason for this, is the fact that water produces its most
efficient cooling action when applied as a spray. Each droplet of the spray absorbs heat and removes it
from the area of the fire. When applied as a jet, most of the water passes through the affected area with
little benefit to the firefighting operation. If the seat of fire is still too far then direct the nozzle to the
various sides, up and down of the compartment from time to time to create a steam.
C. Pulse
Quickly opening and closing the branch. If water were to be applied into a hot compartment continuously
for two minutes, around 1000 liters or one ton of water would have been used and up to 17,000m3 of
steam created. The pulse method can be just as effective as continuous application, however there is a
danger of burst hoses due to water hammer caused by the rapid closing of the branch.
Unroll
Step 1: Pick Up Hose
Step 2: Grab Hose Male Coupler Facing Forward
Step 3: Two Fingers Under First Lay of Coupler
Step 4: In a Swinging Motion With Hose (ring Finger and Little Finger Holding Second Lay
Step 5: Swing in a Bowling Motion
Step 6: Release Little Finger and Ring Finger
Step 7: If Hose Doesn't Unroll Completely, Unroll Hose and Make Sure It Is Lying Flat
On board ship, you will find the following agents that are provided as portable or fixed fire-fighting arrangement:
• Water
• Foam
• Powder (Dry chemical and Metal powder)
• CO2
• Wet chemicals
1. Water is the obvious cooling agent because it is most effective in its action and there is usually plenty
availability of water to where ship’s afloat and because of its very cooling properties, there is a temptation
to be extravagant in its use. THIS CAN BE AS DANGEROUS TO THE SAFETY OF THE SHIP AS THE FIRE
ITSELF.
Water is primarily a cooling agent. It absorbs heat and cools burning materials more effectively than any
other extinguishing agent. It is most effective when it absorbs enough heat to raise its temperature to
1000C (2120F). At this temperature, water absorbs still more heat, turns to steam and moves the absorbed
heat away from the burning material. This quickly reduces the temperature and the fire goes out.
Water has an important secondary effect. When it turns to steam, it converts from liquid state to gaseous
(vapor) state, and in so doing, it expands about 1700 times in volume. This great cloud of steam surrounds
the fire displaying oxygen in the process. Thus, water provides a smothering action as well as cooling.
2. Foam is a blanket of bubbles that extinguishes fire mainly by smothering. The bubbles are formed by
mixing the water and a foam – making agent (foam concentrate). The result is foam solution. The various
foam solutions are lighter than lightest of flammable oil, they float on the surface of the oil.
Fire-fighting foam is used to form blanket on the surface of flaming liquids, including oil. The blanket
prevents flammable vapors from leaving the surface and prevents oxygen from reaching the fuel. Fire
cannot exist when the fuel and oxygen are separated. The water in the foam also has a cooling effect,
which gives foam its Class A extinguishing capacity.
The ideal foam solution should flow freely enough to cover a surface rapidly, yet stick together enough to
provide and maintain a vapor tight blanket. The solution must retain enough water to provide a long lasting
seal. Rapid loss of water would cause the foam to dry out and break down (wither) from the high
temperature associated with fire. The foam should be light enough to float on flammable liquids, yet heavy
enough to resist winds.
As stated, foam is commonly acknowledged as the best fire-fighting medium for liquid fires. This is because it
extinguishes by a combination of five methods.
• Smothering: As the foam blanket forms over the fuel surface, it excludes oxygen. This is one of its major
extinguishing methods.
• Vapor Suppression: This is the second extinguishing method, when the finished foam blanket is in place, its
weight combined with its viscosity act to suppress the emission of vapor from the fuel surface, hence
removing the supply and fuel from flame and preventing re-ignition.
• Steam Generation: As the foam blanket is applied, a certain proportion of its breaks down. This breaking
down releases a small quantity of the constituent water onto the surface of the fuel. This water turns to
steam. The steam generated has the effect of diluting the oxygen supply immediately above the burning
fuel, thus helping to extinguish the fire.
• Surface Cooling: When the foam blanket is in place it absorbs heat from the top level of the fuel, reducing
vapor emissions and helping prevent re-ignition.
• Reflection of Radiant Heat: finished foam has the ability to absorb or reflect radiant heat. This property
helps extinguish a fire by preventing the re-ignition of the blanketed part of a fuel spill, by radiant heat
generated by that part which is still burning.
The latter three parts, although relatively minor individually (in comparison to smothering or vapor suppression)
act together to make a substantial contribution to the success of foam fire-fighting.
There are several types of mechanical foam. They are similar in nature, but each has its special fire-
fighting capabilities. They are produced from proteins, detergents (which are synthetic) and
surfactants.
Surfactants are large group of compound that includes detergents, wetting agent and liquids soaps.
Surfactants are said to produce an AQUEOUS FILM FORMING FOAM commonly referred to AFFF.
Fixed Low Expansion Foam Fire Fighting System for Machinery Spaces • Shall be able to discharge through
fixed nozzles the amount of foam necessary to cover in less than 5 minutes, a height of 150 mm of the largest
area were fuel oil may have been spread.
High Expansion Foam Systems in Machinery Spaces • Shall discharge through fixed nozzles the quantity of
foam necessary to fill the largest space protected with a speed not inferior to 1 meter of height/ minute • The
quantity of liquid available to generate foam shall be sufficient to produce a volume of foam equal to 5 times
the volume of the largest space protected • The foam expansion ratio shall not exceed 12:1
3. Powder (Dry Chemical and Metal Powder) extinguishes fire by cooling, smothering, shielding of
radiant heat and to the greatest extent, by breaking the combustion chain.
Purple-K dry chemical is one of the most effective dry chemical agents against Class B fires. It is
potassium bicarbonate based containing chemical additives, and is produced by an exclusive
chemical process. The resultant agent is free-flowing, water repellant, non-abrasive and, when used
as a fire suppressing agent, will produce no toxic effects. Purple-K dry chemical is purple in color to
differentiate it from the other dry chemical agents.
Dry powder is a non-toxic material, consist of finely graded graphite (carbon) which is an excellent
conductor of heat; therefore, when applied to a metal fire, the temperature is reduced below the
metal’s
4. Carbon Dioxide Carbon dioxide extinguishing system have for a long time, been approved for ship
installation as well as for industrial occupancies ashore aboard ship, carbon dioxide have been approved for
cargo and tanks compartments, spaces containing internal combustion or gas turbine main propulsion
machinery and open spaces.
Carbon dioxide extinguishes fire mainly by smothering. It dilutes the air surroundings the fire until the
oxygen content is too low to support combustion. For this reason, it is effective on Class B fires, where the
main consideration is to keep the flammable vapors separated in the air.
Carbon dioxide is something used to protect areas containing valuable articles. Unlike water and some
other agents, carbon dioxide dissipates without leaving the residue. It does not conduct electricity and can
be used on live electrical equipment.
5. Wet Chemical Agent is a special salt based fire extinguishing liquid used in fire extinguishers for
fighting fires in deep fat fryers, frying appliances as well as air exhaust facilities in ship’s galley and is
applied finely distributed to the burning surface using spray .
Fireproof Lifeline
A Lifeline is a device used as a means of communication between the line tender and the wearer of CABA. It
has a minimum length of 50 feet and it is made of a woven steel wire rope (WSWR) with a snap hook at each
end. Attached to the upper part’ preferable to the back of a BA shoulder harness or belt. These lifelines provide
users with the means to escape back following an entry route or for rescuers to follow a path.
1 Pull O – Okay
2 Pulls A – Advance
3 Pulls T – Take slack
4 Pulls H – Help
Lifelines are used for firefighters outfit/suit or as a general aid. These 30m lifelines are attached by means of a
snap-hook to either the harness of the breathing apparatus or belt of a firefighter. These lifelines provide users
with the means to escape back following an entry route or for rescuers to follow a path. Especially suited for
marine fire fighters.
Breathing apparatus
Breathing apparatus is a device that provides the user with breathing protection and enables a person to enter a
hostile environment with some degree of protection for the respiratory system.
Breathing apparatus must properly be maintained and crewmember must be trained in its use. Training should
include:
1. Instruction on the capabilities and limitations of each type of device carried on board.
2. Instruction on the selection of the proper type device, depending on the hazards.
3. Handling of the equipment, donning of the face piece and testing of the face piece to face seal.
4. Drills simulating the emergency use of the equipment.
5. Instruction and practice in stowing the equipment.
Breathing apparatus includes a face piece, body harness and flexible tubes that supply air or oxygen, and a
cylinder.
1. Open circuit SCBA uses compressed air; closed-circuit uses compressed or liquid oxygen. The exhaled air in
open circuit SCBA is vented to the outside atmosphere.
2. Closed circuit SCBA is also known as re-breather apparatus because the user's exhaled air stays within the
system for reuse.
The main difference between the two is that the former one is used for rescue operations that tend to be very
long. In this type of SCBA, the air is continuously re-processed or recycled so that the wearer of the SCBA gets a
continuous supply of air. In the second variety, the oxygen is compressed to fit into air cylinders. These
varieties of SCBA are used for shorter rescue operations.
Correct Way to Fit the Face Mask of a CABA and to Check that it is Airtight
1. Support the facemask by placing the neck strap around the neck
2. Take the facemask and spread the harness with both hands
3. Take a deep inhalation and hold breath
4. Slide the facemask and harness over the head and position the mask ensuring that the chin fits firmly into
the chin cup
5. Adjust the bottom and middle straps progressively and evenly in pairs to ensure that the head harness is
square on the back of the head
6. Finish off adjustment with the top strap (the facemask fit should be square, comfortable, secure but not
overly tight
After-use Servicing
(When you have worn a set you will be responsible for cleaning it and making it ready for re-use)
‐ Replace the cylinder as described above
‐ Remove the facemask and wash thoroughly in the correctly mixed safety wash solution
‐ Rinse the mask thoroughly in clean lukewarm water
‐ Dry the facemask using the towel roll supplied
‐ Re-assemble the apparatus and carry out a general check as described above
‐ Complete the log book as required
Assembly Instructions:
Open the cylinder cradle by squeezing the two sides of the cradle lever and open the cylinder strap. Line up the
cylinder valve with reducer valve hand wheel and turn hand wheel counterclockwise until hand tight. Hook
cylinder strap over cylinder and pull down the operating lever onto the tension spring to be clipped to place.
To attach demand valve assembly to facemask- line up assembly with the red by pass valve knob upwards with
the center line of facemask and turn assembly clockwise through 90 degrees until it clicks into place.
How to Search for Persons (Using Dummies) in a Smoke-Filled Space while Wearing CABA
‐ two persons in a team enter a mock-up compartment
‐ carry out a search operation
‐ upon finding a casualty (dummy) prepare for carriage
‐ bring out the casualty (dummy) to a safer place
‐ apply medical first aid
Taking Part in Team Exercises Communicating with other Team Members while Wearing
CABA in a Smoke-Filled Space
‐ enter a in a smoke-filled space while wearing a CABA
‐ while inside communicate thru fireproof lifeline, fire hose or metal stick to the outside team members
‐ use or transmit message by referring to the word “O – A – T – H”
‐ received message/instructions from outside team member
‐ carry out or comply with the instruction as per signal aid
Physical and Chemical Properties of Water Fog and its Fire Extinguishing Effects:
• cooling effect
• oxygen squeeze out
• hitting effect
• inhibition extinguishing effect
Water fog is an extremely useful extinguishing agent that can be used in a wide range of applications, except
some special cases, where it is forbidden to use water. Its effectiveness comes from its fire extinguishing
capability and from more different aspects.
The key to fire extinguishing effectiveness of water fog lies within the appropriate kinetic energy of its
extremely small particles. “Water fog” is the name of the aerosol, if it contains particles with a diameter of 1,000
mm or bigger less than 1% of the water, measured in 1 meter distance from the spray nozzle. Sizes of water
particles should be checked with a laser measurement instrument at least in 24 different points in the aerosol.
2. Sizes, numbers of water drops and an active cooling surface related to 1 liter of water
Method of Extinguishing Fire with Water Fog or Any Other Suitable Firefighting Agent
1. Enter the area in a crouch position using a low-velocity fog w/ vari-nozzle
2. Adjust the nozzle to form a screen of water droplets which provides a heat shield
3. Shuffle and advance with extra care due to visibility is obscured with water fog
4. Use water fog to drive the smoke and heat
5. In passageway with only one opening, direct short burst of solid stream or fog toward the overhead to
knock down the flames
6. Keep distance at about 5m in extinguishing fire from electrical equipment
7. Use indirect attack to the seat of fire
Self-inducing portable foam applicator pipe with a capacity of 225 L/min, light alloy with suction hose and Storz
connector lug distance 66 mm / 2", powder coated (orange), according to SOLAS
‐ long throw
‐ Self-inducing models
‐ Suitable for all foams
‐ Range 18-22 meters at 7 bar
Required as per SOLAS II-2/10.5.1.2.1 and 10.5.2.2.1. Intended to lay down a blanket of foam in case of an oil
fire in machinery spaces. Machinery spaces containing oil-fired boiler or oil fuel units and or internal
combustion engine shall carry at least one portable foam applicator unit complying with the FSS Code
equivalent in each boiler room. If the engine-room and boiler room are not entirely separate, or if fuel can drain
from the boiler room into the engine-room, the combined engine and boiler room shall be considered as one
compartment.
Method of Extinguishing Oil Fire with Fog Applicator and Spray Nozzles, Dry Chemical
Powder or Foam Applicators
1. Apply the foam gently with minimal disturbances to the fuel surfaces
2. The other way is to deflect the stream off the vertical surface near the fire
3. Allow the foam to run down onto the fuel and spread over it
4. Another technique is to discharge the foam at the ground in front of the fire allowing the foam to roll over
the front edge of the fuel fire
5. Moved the stream at about the surface rather than to steady at one application point
6. Wait for the foam to move across the fuel surface
7. Once control has been established, shut down the nozzle and see if the foam will seal up, completing
extinguishment