FSS Chapter 9

Fixed fire detection and fire alarm systems

Above systems with manually operated call points shall be operational at all times. Any disconnection of detectors shall be on AUTOMATIC restore after specified time. During such time manual fire patrol is maintained.

Detector system has inputs from detectors and manual call points, output is directed to the Navigation Bridge or manned control station. Output signal may be connected to Fire alarm, paging system and Public address systems, Fan stops, Fire doors, Fire dampers, sprinkler systems, Smoke extraction systems, Low-location lighting systems, Fixed local application fire-extinguishing systems, CCTV systems and other fire safety systems.

FIRE detection system may be connected to a decision management system if such system is compatible, can be disconnected without affecting detection system and its malfunction must not affect detection system.

Detectors and manual call points are connected to dedicated sections of fire detection system.

The system and equipment is robust to withstand all problems faced on ship.

Fixed fire detection and fire alarm system with INDIVIDUALLY identifiable fire detectors

Failure of one detector does not affect other detectors.

System can be reset to original configuration after any failure.

No section passes through a space twice.

Passenger ships

System is capable of identifying each detector and manual call point individually from remote position. When activated in cabins, detectors give audible alarm.

Systems are powered by 2 independent power sources and changeover is automatic. There is no loss of detection any time. There is sufficient power even if 100 detectors are activated.

In case if emergency supply is from batteries, system will work for at least 30 minutes.

DETECTORS

They are operated by heat, smoke, flame or combinations and are approved.

Smoke detectors operate when smoke density exceeds 12.5% obscuration per metre.

Heat detectors operate when temperature exceeds 78 deg c. Operating temperature is raised in drying room or sauna room to 140 deg C.

All detectors can be tested for normal operation and restored back in service without renewal of any component.

Installations

Detectors and manually operated call points are grouped into sections.

Machinery space, RO-RO space and accommodation spaces are isolated.

Detectors are placed for optimum performance. Normally they are placed at least 0.5 m from the bulkheads and away from disturbing sources.

Heat detector serves maximum floor area of 37 sqm.

Smoke detector serves maximum floor area of 74 sqm

Wherever there is possibility of obscuration by steam and fumes, in places like freezers, galleys, sauna, drying rooms etc heat detectors are used.

Spaces having very low risk or no risk of fire need not be fitted with detectors.

System control requirements

Activation of any detectors or manually operated call point gives visual and audible alarm at control panel and indicating units. If they are no acknowledged in 2 minutes, then an audible fire alarm is activated automatically. This Fire alarm system is normally independent and not part of detection system.

On passenger ship control panel is in safety centre. On Cargo ship either on navigation bridge or fire control station.

Indicating unit which identifies activated detector or call point is normally placed on Navigation Bridge.

Clear instructions are posted adjacent to each indication unit.

Power supply and electric circuits are monitored for faults. Occurrence of fault triggers a visual and audible signal at control panel and is distinct from fire signal. Means are provided to acknowledge these alarms on control panel. Control panel clearly indicates various conditions of alarms.

System resets automatically after alarms and faults are cleared. Local audible alarm near detector cannot be silenced from control panel.

Alarm volume is sufficiently large to wake up sleeping person.

Operating instructions and spare are provided. Detectors are periodically tested. Some ships have self-diagnostic system for testing.