Fire Protection of Technical Areas and Control Stations

Fire protection must primarily focus on prevention. However, if a fire does occur, it is essential to ensure that flames cannot spread rapidly and that the fire can be brought under control as effectively as possible.

This is achieved by dividing the vessel into fire zones, using fire-resistant bulkheads and fire doors, implementing early detection and alarm systems, and installing fire-extinguishing systems.

Fire-extinguishing systems include:

• – Initial-phase firefighting devices (e.g., portable fire extinguishers, sprays, and passive systems in transparent containers that release their contents when exposed to high temperatures—particularly suitable for electrical cabinets).
• – Developed-fire suppression systems, such as sprinkler systems, water mist systems, CO₂ systems, NOVEC 1230 gas systems, and similar technologies.

Apart from the engine room, which is particularly critical due to the equipment and flammable materials present but is usually adequately covered by fire protection systems, attention must also be given to other spaces that require additional fire protection. Areas containing significant electrical equipment, fuel, or hydraulic oils should be equipped with fixed fire-extinguishing systems (automatic or remotely activated). Early activation of these systems can significantly improve the chances of successfully controlling a fire on the vessel and may even fully extinguish it in its initial stage.

The installation of such systems is especially important on vessels with sandwich-structure construction. When flames and high temperatures reach the inner layer of the structure, the suppression of the fire spread becomes extremely challenging, as the outer, non-combustible layer insulates the flammable core from the action of fire-fighting agents.

Recipients: This safety lesson is intended for classification societies, flag state maritime administrations, yacht owners and managers, yacht crews, charter companies, and port authorities managing marinas and yacht harbours.