6.7 Containment of Fire:

 Purpose

(1) The purpose of this part is to contain a fire in the space of origin by meeting the following functional requirements-

• (a) the ship shall be subdivided by thermal and structural boundaries;

• (b) thermal insulation of boundaries shall have due regard to the fire risk of the space and adjacent spaces;

• (c) the fire integrity of the divisions shall be maintained at openings and penetrations; and

• (d) for the purposes of Chapter 6 of the Code in general and for section 6.7 (Containment of Fire) in particular, rooms and spaces containing furniture and furnishings of restricted fire risk which form part of an escape route are those rooms and spaces (whether cabins, public spaces, offices or other types of accommodation) in which-

  • (i) case furniture such as desks, wardrobes, dressing tables, bureaux, or dressers, are constructed entirely of approved non-combustible materials, except that a combustible veneer not exceeding 2 mm may be used on the working surface of such articles;

  • (ii) free-standing furniture such as chairs, sofas, or tables, are constructed with frames of non-combustible materials;

  • (iii) draperies, curtains and other suspended textile materials have qualities of resistance to the propagation of flame not inferior to those of wool having a mass of 0.8 kg/m² , this being determined in accordance with the Fire Test Procedures Code;

  • (iv) floor coverings have low flame-spread characteristics;

  • (v) exposed surfaces of bulkheads, linings and ceilings have low flame-spread characteristics;

  • (vi) upholstered furniture has qualities of resistance to the ignition and propagation of flame, this being determined in accordance with the Fire Test Procedures Code; and

  • (vii) bedding components have qualities of resistance to the ignition and propagation of flame, this being determined in accordance with the Fire Test Procedures Code.

Thermal and Structural Subdivision

(2) Ships shall be subdivided into spaces by thermal and structural divisions having regard to the fire risks of the spaces.

Main Vertical Zones and Horizontal Zones

(3) The hull, superstructure and deckhouses in way of accommodation and service spaces shall be subdivided into main vertical zones by "A" class divisions and these divisions shall have insulation values in accordance with Tables 6.1 and 6.2.

(4) The main vertical zones shall comply with the following provisions-

• (a) the bulkheads forming the boundaries of the main vertical zones above the bulkhead deck shall as far as practicable, be in line with watertight subdivision bulkheads situated immediately below the bulkhead deck;

• (b) the length and width of main vertical zones may be extended to a maximum of 48 metres in order to bring the ends of main vertical zones to coincide with watertight subdivision bulkheads or in order to accommodate a large public space extending for the whole length of the main vertical zone provided that the total area of the main vertical zone is not greater than 1,600 m² on any deck;

• (c) the length or width of a main vertical zone shall be the maximum distance between the furthermost points of the bulkheads bounding it; and

• (d) main vertical zones may be stepped or may consist of one or more horizontal zones where it is impracticable from structural or design considerations to achieve compliance otherwise; in all cases however the Administration shall be satisfied that an equivalent level of safety and protection is achieved.

(5) Bulkheads forming the boundaries of main vertical zones shall extend from deck to deck and to the shell or other boundaries.

(6) Where a main vertical zone is subdivided by horizontal "A" class divisions into horizontal zones for the purpose of providing an appropriate barrier between a zone with sprinklers and a zone without sprinklers, the divisions shall extend between adjacent main vertical zone bulkheads and to the shell or exterior boundaries of the ship and shall be insulated in accordance with the fire insulation and integrity values given in Table 6.2.

Bulkheads within a Main Vertical Zone

(7) Bulkheads within accommodation and service spaces shall meet the requirements of paragraphs (a) to (d) as appropriate taking into consideration guidelines developed buy the Organization^footnote-

• (a) Subject to paragraphs (a) and (b), bulkheads within accommodation and service spaces which are not required to be "A" class divisions shall be at least "B" class or "C" class divisions as prescribed in Tables 6.1 and 6.2; in addition, corridor bulkheads, where not required to be "A" class, shall be "B" class divisions which shall extend from deck to deck;

• (b) where continuous "B" class ceilings or linings are fitted on both sides of the bulkhead, the portion of the bulkhead behind the continuous ceiling or lining shall be of material which, in thickness and composition, is acceptable in the construction of "B" class divisions, but which shall be required to meet "B" class integrity standards only in so far as is reasonable and practicable in the opinion of the Administration;

• (c) where, as will normally be the case, the ship is protected by an automatic sprinkler system complying with the provisions of the Fire Safety Systems Code, the corridor bulkheads may terminate at a ceiling in the corridor provided such bulkheads and ceilings are of "B" class standard in compliance with subsections (10) and (11): provided that all doors and frames in such bulkheads shall be of non-combustible materials and shall have the same fire integrity as the bulkhead in which they are fitted.

• (d) where “C” class divisions between similar purposed spaces are provided (sleeping/washing/dressing), these divisions do not need to be continuous and the group of spaces may be considered as one.

(8) Bulkheads required to be "B" class divisions, except corridor bulkheads as prescribed in subsection 6.9(2), shall extend from deck to deck and to the shell or other boundaries; provided that where a continuous "B" class ceiling or lining is fitted on both sides of a bulkhead which is at least of the same fire resistance as the adjoining bulkhead, the bulkhead may terminate at the continuous ceiling or lining.

Fire Integrity of Bulkheads and Decks

(9) In addition to complying with the specific provisions for fire integrity of bulkheads and decks, the minimum fire integrity of bulkheads and decks shall be as prescribed in Tables 6.1 and 6.2.

(10) The following requirements shall govern application of the Tables-

• (a) Tables 6.1 and 6.2 shall apply respectively to the bulkheads and decks separating adjacent spaces;

• (b) For determining the appropriate fire integrity standards to be applied to divisions between adjacent spaces-

  • (i) such spaces are classified according to their fire risk as shown in sub paragraphs (ba) to (bk) below;

  • (ii) where the contents and use of a space are such that there is a doubt as to its classification for the purpose of this paragraph , or where it is possible to assign two or more classifications to a space, it shall be treated as a space within the relevant category having the most stringent boundary requirements;

  • (iii) smaller, enclosed rooms within a space that have less than 30% communicating openings to that space are considered separate spaces;

  • (iv) the fire integrity of the boundary bulkheads and decks of such smaller rooms shall be as prescribed in Tables 6.1 and 6.2;

  • (v) the title of each category is intended to be typical rather than restrictive; and

  • (vi) the number in parentheses following each category refers to the applicable column or row in the Tables,

    • (ba) control stations (1):

      spaces containing emergency sources of power and lighting; wheelhouse and chartroom; spaces containing the ship's radio equipment; fire control stations; control room for propulsion machinery when located outside the machinery space; spaces containing centralised fire alarm equipment;

    • (bb) corridors: (2):

      passenger and crew corridors and lobbies;

    • (bc) accommodation spaces (3):

      spaces as defined in section 1.3 excluding corridors;

    • (bd) stairways: (4)

      interior stairways; lifts; totally enclosed emergency escape trunks and escalators (other than those wholly contained within the machinery spaces) and enclosures thereto (in this connection, a stairway which is enclosed only at one level shall be regarded as part of the space from which it is not separated by a fire door);

    • (be) service spaces (low risk) (5):

      lockers and store-rooms not having provisions for the storage of flammable liquids and having areas less than 4m² and drying rooms and laundries;

    • (bf) machinery spaces of Category A (6):

      spaces as defined in section 1.3;

    • (bg) other machinery spaces (7):

      electrical equipment rooms (auto-telephone exchange, air-conditioning duct spaces); spaces as defined in section 1.3 excluding machinery spaces of category A;

    • (bh) service spaces (high risk) (9):

      galleys; pantries containing cooking appliances; paint lockers; lockers and store-rooms having areas of 4m² or more; spaces for the storage of flammable liquids; saunas and workshops other than those forming part of the machinery spaces;

    • (bi) open decks (10):

      open deck spaces and enclosed promenades having little or no fire risk; enclosed promenades shall have no significant fire risk, meaning that furnishing shall be restricted to deck furniture; in addition, such spaces shall be naturally ventilated by permanent openings; air spaces (the space outside superstructures and deckhouses); and

    • (bj) garage spaces (11):

      spaces as defined in section 1.3.

    • (bk) Evacuation stations and external escape routes (12): Survival craft stowage area; Open deck spaces and enclosed promenades forming lifeboat and liferaft embarkation and lowering stations; Assembly stations, internal and external; External stairs and open decks used for escape routes; The ship’s side to the waterline in the lightest seagoing condition, superstructure and deckhouse sides situated below and adjacent to the liferaft and evacuation slide embarkation areas

(11) In determining the applicable fire integrity standard of a boundary between two spaces within a main vertical zone or horizontal zone which is not protected by an automatic sprinkler system complying with the provisions of the Fire Safety Systems Code or between such zones neither of which is so protected, the higher of the two values given in the tables shall apply.

(12) In determining the applicable fire integrity standard of a boundary between two spaces within a main vertical zone or horizontal zone which is protected by an automatic sprinkler system complying with the provisions of the Fire Safety Systems Code or between such zones both of which are so protected, the lesser of the two values given in the tables shall apply and where a zone with sprinklers and a zone without sprinklers meet within accommodation and service spaces, the higher of the two values given in the tables shall apply to the division between the zones.

(13) Continuous "B" class ceilings or linings, in association with the relevant decks or bulkheads, may be accepted as contributing, wholly or in part, to the required insulation and integrity of a division.

(14) External boundaries which are required in subsection 6.9(2) to be of steel or other equivalent material may be pierced for the fitting of windows and sidescuttles provided that there is no requirement for such boundaries to have "A" class integrity. Similarly, in such boundaries which are not required to have "A" class integrity, doors may be constructed of materials which are to the satisfaction of the Administration.

Construction and Arrangement of Saunas

(15) The perimeter of the sauna shall be of "A" class boundaries and may include changing rooms, showers and toilets and the sauna shall be insulated to "A-60" standard against other spaces except those inside of the perimeter of the sauna and spaces of category (5), (7) and (10).

(16) Bathrooms with direct access to saunas may be considered as part of them. In such cases, the door between sauna and the bathroom need not comply with fire safety requirements.

(17) The traditional wooden lining on the bulkheads and ceiling are permitted in the sauna provided that-

• (a) the ceiling above the oven shall be lined with a non-combustible plate with an air gap of at least 30 millimetres; and

• (b) the distance from the hot surfaces to combustible materials shall be at least 500 millimetres or the combustible materials shall be protected (e.g., non-combustible plate with an air gap of at least 30 millimetres).

(18) The traditional wooden benches are permitted to be used in the sauna.

(19) The sauna door shall open outwards by pushing.

(20) Electrically heated ovens shall be provided with a timer.

Protection of Stairways and Lifts in Accommodation Area

(21) Stairways shall be within enclosures formed of "A" class divisions, with positive means of closure at all openings, except that-

• (a) a stairway connecting only two decks need not be enclosed, provided the integrity of the deck is maintained by proper bulkheads or self-closing doors in one 'tween-deck space; when a stairway is closed in one 'tween-deck space, the stairway enclosure shall be protected in accordance with the table for decks Tables 6.2; and

• (b) Stairways may be fitted in the open in a public space, provided they lie wholly within the public space.

(22) Lift trunks shall be so fitted as to prevent the passage of smoke and flame from one deck to another and shall be provided with means of closing so as to permit the control of draught and smoke.

(23) Machinery for lifts located within stairway enclosures shall be arranged in a separate room, surrounded by steel boundaries, provided that small passages for lift cables are permitted.

(24) Lifts which open into spaces other than corridors, public spaces, special category spaces, stairways and external areas shall not open into stairways included in the means of escape.

(25) Non-load bearing partial bulkheads which separate adjacent cabin balconies shall be capable of being opened by the crew from each side for the purpose of fighting fires.

Protection of Atriums:

(26) Atriums shall be within enclosures formed of “A” class divisions having a fire rating determined in accordance with Table 6.1.

(27) Decks separating spaces within atriums shall have a fire rating determined in accordance with Table 6.2.

Notes: To be applied to both tables 6.1 and 6.2 as appropriate

(For clarification as to which applies, see subsections (7) & (8) and subsections (21) and (24))

^a For clarification as to which applies, see paragraphs 6.7(7) & (8) and 6.7(21) to (25)

^b Where spaces are of the same numerical category and superscript "b" appears, a bulkhead or deck of the rating shown in the tables is only required when the adjacent spaces are for a different purpose (e.g., in category (9)). A galley next to a galley does not require a bulkhead, but a galley next to a paint room requires an "A-0" bulkhead.

^c Bulkheads separating the wheelhouse and chartroom from each other may have a "B-0" rating. No fire rating is required for those partitions separating the navigation bridge and the safety centre when the latter is within the navigation bridge.

^d See subsections (11) and (12).

^e For the application of subsection (3), "B-0" and "C", where appearing in Table 6.1, shall be read as "A-0".

^f Fire insulation need not be fitted if the machinery space in category (7), in the opinion of the Administration, has little or no fire risk.

^g The ship’s side, to the waterline in the lightest seagoing condition, superstructure and deckhouse sides situated below and adjacent to liferafts and evacuation slides may be reduced to "A-30".

^h Where spaces of categories (6), (7), (8) and (9) are located completely within the outer perimeter of the assembly station, the bulkheads of these spaces are allowed to be of "B-0" class integrity. Control positions for audio, video and light installations may be considered as part of the assembly station.

^* Where an asterisk appears in the Tables it indicates that-

• (a) the division is required to be of steel or other equivalent material, but is not required to be of "A" class standard subject to (e) below; however, where a deck, except in a category (10) space, is penetrated for the passage of electric cables, pipes and vent ducts, such penetrations shall be made tight to prevent the passage of flame and smoke;

• (b) divisions between control stations (emergency generators) and open decks may have air intake openings without means for closure; unless a fixed gas fire-extinguishing system is fitted in the control station;

• (c) for the application of subsection 6.7(3), in Table 6.2, “A” class divisions shall be read as "A-0", except for category (10);

• (d) for windows and doors, subsection 6.7(46) shall apply; and

• (e) boundaries facing life-saving appliances (except those leading from stairways), embarkation and assembly stations, external stairs and open decks used for escape routes, and situated below survival craft, liferaft and escape slide embarkation areas shall have the same fire integrity as a window or door as per subsection 6.7(46)(a) to (d).

Penetrations in Fire-Resisting Divisions and Prevention of Heat Transmission

(28) Where "A" class divisions are penetrated, such penetrations shall comply with the following provisions-

• (a) subject to the provisions of subsection (36), the penetrations shall be tested in accordance with the Fire Test Procedures Code;

• (b) in the case of ventilation ducts, subsections (57), (61) and (62) shall apply;

• (c) where a pipe penetration is made of steel or equivalent material having a thickness of 3 millimetres or greater and a length of not less than 900 millimetres (preferably 450 millimetres on each side of the division), and there are no openings, testing is not required but such penetrations shall be suitably insulated by extension of the insulation at the same level of the division being penetrated.

(29) Where "B" class divisions are penetrated for the passage of electric cables, pipes, trunks, ducts, etc., or for the fitting of ventilation terminals, lighting fixtures and similar devices, such penetrations shall comply with the following provisions-

• (a) subject to the provisions of subsection (70), arrangements shall be made to ensure that the fire resistance is not impaired;

• (b) pipes other than steel or copper that shall be protected by either-

  • (i) a fire-tested penetration device suitable for the fire resistance of the division pierced and the type of pipe used; or

  • (ii) a steel sleeve, having a thickness of not less than 1.8 millimetres and a length of not less than 900 millimetres for pipe diameters of 150 millimetres or more and not less than 600 millimetres for pipe diameters of less than 150 millimetres (preferably equally divided to each side of the division). The pipe shall be connected to the ends of the sleeve by flanges or couplings; or the clearance between the sleeve and the pipe shall not exceed 2.5 millimetres; or any clearance between pipe and sleeve shall be made tight by means of non-combustible or other suitable material.

(30) Uninsulated metallic pipes penetrating "A" or "B" class divisions shall be of materials having a melting temperature which exceeds 950°C for "A-0" and 850°C for "B-0" class divisions.

(31) In approving structural fire protection details, the Administration shall have regard to the risk of heat transmission at intersections and terminal points of required thermal barriers. The insulation of a deck or bulkhead shall be carried past the penetration, intersection or terminal point for a distance of at least 450 millimetres in the case of steel and aluminium structures. If a space is divided with a deck or a bulkhead of "A" class standard having insulation of different values, the insulation with the higher value shall continue on the deck or bulkhead with the insulation of the lesser value for a distance of at least 450 millimetres.

Protection of Openings in Fire-Resisting Divisions

(32) Openings shall be provided with permanently attached means of closing which shall be at least as effective for resisting fires as the divisions in which they are fitted.

(33) The construction of doors and door frames in "A" class divisions, with the means of securing them when closed, shall comply with the following provisions-

• (a) the construction shall provide resistance to fire as well as to the passage of smoke and flame equivalent to that of the bulkheads in which the doors are situated, this being determined in accordance with the Fire Test Procedures Code;

• (b) doors and door frames shall be constructed of steel or other equivalent material (for glass doors refer to 2.12(22));

• (c) steel watertight doors need not be insulated;

• (d) doors approved without the sill being part of the frame, shall be installed such that the gap under the door does not exceed 12 mm;

• (e) a non-combustible sill shall be installed under the door such that floor coverings do not extend beneath the closed door.

(34) It shall be possible for each door to be opened and closed from each side of the bulkhead by one person only.

(35) Fire doors in main vertical zone bulkheads, galley boundaries and stairway enclosures other than power-operated watertight doors and those which are normally locked shall satisfy the following requirements:

• (a) the doors shall be self-closing and be capable of closing with an angle of inclination of up to 3.5° opposing closure;

• (b) the approximate time of closure for hinged fire doors shall be no more than 40s and no less than 10 seconds from the beginning of their movement with the ship in upright position. The approximate uniform rate of closure for sliding doors shall be of no more than 0.2 m/s and no less than 0.1 m/s with the ship in upright position;

• (c) the doors, except those for emergency escape trunks, shall be capable of remote release from the continuously manned central control station, either simultaneously or in groups, and shall be capable of release also individually from a position at both sides of the door. Release switches shall have an on-off function to prevent automatic resetting of the system;

• (d) hold-back hooks not subject to central control station release are prohibited;

• (e) a door closed remotely from the central control station shall be capable of being re-opened from both sides of the door by local control. After such local opening, the door shall automatically close again;

• (f) indication shall be provided at the fire door indicator panel in the continuously manned central control station whether each door is closed;

• (g) the release mechanism shall be so designed that the door will automatically close in the event of disruption of the control system or central power supply;

• (h) local power accumulators for power-operated doors shall be provided in the immediate vicinity of the doors to enable the doors to be operated at least ten times (fully opened and closed) after disruption of the control system or central power supply using the local controls;

• (i) disruption of the control system or central power supply at one door shall not impair the safe functioning of the other doors;

• (j) remote-released sliding or power-operated doors shall be equipped with an alarm that sounds at least 5 seconds but no more than 10 seconds, after the door is released from the central control station and before the door begins to move and continues sounding until the door is completely closed;

• (k) a door designed to re-open upon contacting an object in its path shall re-open not more than 1 metre from the point of contact;

• (l) double-leaf doors equipped with a latch necessary for their fire integrity shall have a latch that is automatically activated by the operation of the doors when released by the system;

• (m) the components of the local control system shall be accessible for maintenance and adjusting;

• (n) power-operated doors shall be provided with a control system of an approved type which shall be able to operate in case of fire and be in accordance with the Fire Test Procedures Code. This system shall satisfy the following requirements-

  • (i) the control system shall be able to operate the door at the temperature of at least 200°C for at least 60 min, served by the power supply;

  • (ii) the power for all other doors not subject to fire shall not be impaired; and

  • (iii) at temperatures exceeding 200°C, the control system shall be automatically isolated from the power supply and shall be capable of keeping the door closed up to at least 945°C.

(36) Where a space is protected by an automatic sprinkler fire detection and fire alarm system complying with the provisions of the Fire Safety Systems Code or fitted with a continuous "B" class ceiling, openings in decks not forming steps in main vertical zones nor bounding horizontal zones shall be closed reasonably tight and such decks shall meet the "A" class integrity requirements in so far as is reasonable and practicable in the opinion of the Administration.

(37) The requirements for "A" class integrity of the outer boundaries of a ship shall not apply to-

• (a) glass partitions, windows and sidescuttles, provided that there is no requirement for such boundaries to have "A" class integrity in subsection (46);

• (b) exterior doors, except for those in superstructures and deckhouses facing life-saving appliances, embarkation and external assembly station areas, external stairs and open decks used for escape routes; and

• (c) stairway enclosure doors, glass doors and windows

(38) Except for watertight doors, weathertight doors, semi-watertight doors, doors leading to the open deck and doors which need to be reasonably gastight, all "A" class doors located in stairways, public spaces and main vertical zone bulkheads in escape routes shall be equipped with a self-closing hose port, the material, construction and fire resistance of which shall be equivalent to the door into which it is fitted, and the port shall be a 150 millimetres square clear opening with the door closed and shall be inset into the lower edge of the door, opposite the door hinges or, in the case of sliding doors, nearest the opening.

(39) Ventilation ducts passing through main vertical zone divisions must be kept to a minimum and where it is necessary that a such a duct passes through a main vertical zone division, a fail-safe automatic closing fire damper shall be fitted adjacent to the division complying with the following provisions-

• (a) the damper shall be capable of being manually closed from each side of the division;

• (b) the operating position of the damper shall be readily accessible and be marked in red light-reflecting colour;

• (c) the duct between the division and the damper shall be of steel or other equivalent material and, if necessary, insulated to comply with the requirements of subsection (28); and

• (d) the damper shall be fitted on at least one side of the division with a visible indicator showing whether the damper is in the open position.

Openings in "B" Class Divisions

(40) Doors and door frames in "B" class divisions and means of securing them shall provide a method of closure which shall have resistance to fire equivalent to that of the divisions, this being determined in accordance with the Fire Test Procedures Code provided that that ventilation openings may be permitted in the lower portion of such doors as follows-

• (a) where such opening is in or under a door the total net area of any such opening or openings shall not exceed 0.05 m²;

• (b) alternatively, a non-combustible air balance duct routed between the cabin and the corridor, and located below the sanitary unit, is permitted where the cross-sectional area of the duct does not exceed 0.05m²;

• (c) all ventilation openings shall be fitted with a grill made of non-combustible material;

• (d) doors shall be non-combustible; and

• (e) doors approved without the sill being part of the frame, shall be installed such that the gap under the door does not exceed 25 mm.

(41) Cabin doors in "B" class divisions shall be of a self-closing type. Hold-back hooks are not permitted.

(42) The requirements for "B" class integrity of the outer boundaries of a ship shall not apply to glass partitions, windows and sidescuttles. Similarly, the requirements for "B" class integrity shall not apply to exterior doors in superstructures and deckhouses. The Administration may permit the use of combustible materials in doors separating cabins from the individual interior sanitary spaces such as showers.

(43) The following provisions apply to openings in “B” Class Divisions-

• (a) openings in decks not forming steps in main vertical zones nor bounding horizontal zones shall be closed reasonably tight and such decks shall meet the "B" class integrity requirements in so far as is reasonable and practicable in the opinion of the Administration; and

• (b) openings in corridor bulkheads of "B" class materials shall be protected in accordance with the provisions of subsections (8) and (9).

Windows, Sidescuttles Weathertight and Watertight Doors

(44) Windows and sidescuttles in bulkheads within accommodation and service spaces and control stations other than those to which the provisions of subsections (35) and (40) apply shall be so constructed as to preserve the integrity requirements of the type of bulkheads in which they are fitted, this being determined in accordance with the Fire Test Procedures Code.

(45) A-class windows and sidescuttles in bulkheads separating accommodation and service spaces and control stations from weather shall be constructed with frames of steel or other suitable material and the glass shall be mechanically retained. See also 2.12(22).

(46) Windows and doors (except those leading from stairways)-facing life-saving appliances, embarkation and assembly stations, external stairs and open decks used for escape routes, and windows situated below survival craft, liferaft and escape slide embarkation areas shall have the following fire integrity:

• (a) open decks used as embarkation and assembly stations shall be to class “A-30” standard; and

• (b) areas in the ship’s side situated below survival craft launching positions, escape slide arrangements or stowage areas for survival craft, shall also be to class “A-30” standard; and

• (c) where no lifeboats are fitted, areas in the ship’s side situated below the rescue boat launching positions, and stowage areas for rescue boats, shall also be to class “A-30” standard; and

• (d) open decks, including external stairs, used as escape routes, shall be to class “A-0” standard unless, with the conditions in subparagraph (i), the requirements in subparagraph (ii) are complied with:

  • (i) A fire within a space in which the window/door is located should be assumed to result in all the windows or doors failing in that space, rendering the fire boundary in which they are situated ineffective, creating a ‘failed fire boundary’. Windows located beyond a B-Class deck to deck boundary or higher fire rating, are considered to be located in a separate space.

  • (ii) There must continue to be a means of escape providing direct access to the embarkation deck by way of external stairways/passageways, that does not:

    • (ba) pass along a ‘failed fire boundary’;

    • (bb) require the use of the second means of escape required by 6.11(9) & (11); or

    • (bc) require the escaping person(s) to have to return along, down or up the escape route that they have already passed.

(47) Where automatic dedicated sprinkler heads are provided for windows or glass doors, "A-0" windows or glass doors may be accepted as equivalent to those required under subsection (46); provided that to be considered under this paragraph, the sprinkler heads shall either be-

• (a) dedicated heads located above the windows or glass doors, and installed in addition to the conventional ceiling sprinklers;

• (b) conventional ceiling sprinkler heads arranged such that the window or glass door is protected by an average application rate of at least 5l/min/m² and the additional window area is included in the calculation of the area of coverage; or

• (c) water-mist nozzles that have been tested and approved in accordance with the guidelines approved by the IMO.

(48) Steel watertight doors need not be insulated.

Protection of Openings in Machinery Spaces Boundaries

(49) The provision of subsections (50) to (55) shall apply to machinery spaces of category A and, where the Administration considers it desirable, to other machinery spaces.

(50) The number of skylights, doors, ventilators, openings in funnels to permit exhaust ventilation and other openings to machinery spaces shall be reduced to a minimum consistent with the needs of ventilation and the proper and safe working of the ship.

(51) Skylights shall be of steel and shall not contain glass panels.

(52) Means of control shall be provided for closing power-operated doors or actuating release mechanisms on doors other than power-operated watertight doors and such controls shall be located outside the space served so that they will not be cut off in the event of fire in that place.

(53) The means of control required in subsection (52) shall be situated at one control position or grouped in as few positions as possible to the satisfaction of the Administration and such positions shall have safe access from the open deck.

(54) Doors, other than power-operated watertight doors, shall be so arranged that positive closure is assured in case of fire in the space by power-operated closing arrangements or by the provision of self-closing doors capable of closing against an inclination of 3.5° opposing closure, and having a fail-safe hold-back arrangement; provided with a remotely operated release device; provided that doors for emergency escape trunks need not be fitted with a fail-safe hold-back facility and a remotely operated release device.

(55) Windows shall not be fitted in machinery space boundaries. However, this does not preclude the use of glass in control rooms within the machinery spaces.

Ventilation Systems

(56) Ventilation ducts, including single and double wall ducts, shall be of steel or equivalent material except flexible bellows of short length not exceeding 600 mm used for connecting fans to the ducting in air-conditioning rooms. Unless expressly provided otherwise in paragraph (61), any other material used in the construction of ducts, including insulation, shall also be non-combustible. However, short ducts, not generally exceeding 2 m in length and with a free cross-sectional area^footnote not exceeding 0.02 m², need not be of steel or equivalent material, subject to the following conditions:

• (a) the ducts shall be made of non-combustible material, which may be faced internally and externally with membranes having low flame-spread characteristics and, in each case, a calorific value^footnote not exceeding 45 MJ/m² of their surface area for the thickness used;

• (b) the ducts are only used at the end of the ventilation device; and

• (c) the ducts are not situated less than 600 mm, measured along the duct, from an opening in an "A" or "B" class division, including continuous "B" class ceiling.

(57) The following arrangements shall be tested in accordance with the Fire Test Procedures Code-

• (a) fire dampers, including their relevant means of operation; and

• (b) duct penetrations through "A" class divisions. However, the test is not required where steel sleeves are directly joined to ventilation ducts by means of riveted or screwed flanges or by welding.

(58) Fire dampers shall be easily accessible. Where they are placed behind ceilings or linings, these ceilings or linings shall be provided with an inspection hatch on which the identification number of the fire damper is marked. The fire damper identification number shall also be marked on any remote controls provided.

(59) Ventilation ducts shall be provided with hatches for inspection and cleaning. The hatches shall be located near the fire dampers.

(60) The main inlets and outlets of ventilation systems shall be capable of being closed from outside the spaces being ventilated. The means of closing shall be easily accessible as well as prominently and permanently marked and shall indicate the operating position of the closing device.

(61) Combustible gaskets in flanged ventilation duct connections are not permitted within 600 mm of openings in "A" or "B" class divisions and in ducts required to be of "A" class construction.

(62) Ventilation openings or air balance ducts between two enclosed spaces shall not be provided except as permitted by paragraph 6.7(40).

(63) The ventilation systems for machinery spaces of category A, vehicle spaces and galleys shall, in general, be separated from each other and from the ventilation systems serving other spaces. However, the galley ventilation systems need not be completely separated from other ventilation systems, but may be served by separate ducts from a ventilation unit serving other spaces. In such a case, an automatic fire damper shall be fitted in the galley ventilation duct near the ventilation unit.

(64) Ducts provided for the ventilation of machinery spaces of category A, galleys and vehicle spaces shall not pass through accommodation spaces, service spaces, or control stations unless they comply with paragraph (66).

(65) Ducts provided for the ventilation of accommodation spaces, service spaces or control stations shall not pass through machinery spaces of category A, galleys and vehicle spaces, unless they comply with paragraph (66).

(66) As permitted by paragraphs (64) and (65) ducts shall be either:

• (a) constructed of steel having a thickness of at least 3 mm for ducts with a free cross-sectional area of less than 0.075 m², at least 4 mm for ducts with a free cross-sectional area of between 0.075 m² and 0.45 m², and at least 5 mm for ducts with a free cross-sectional area of over 0.45 m²;

• (b) suitably supported and stiffened;

• (c) fitted with automatic fire dampers close to the boundaries penetrated; and

• (d) insulated to "A-60" class standard from the boundaries of the spaces they serve to a point at least 5 m beyond each fire damper;

or

• (e) constructed of steel in accordance with sub-sections (a) and (b); and

• (f) insulated to "A-60" class standard throughout the spaces they pass through, except for ducts that pass through the following spaces;

  • (iii) Sanitary and similar spaces such as;

    • (bd) Communal sanitary facilities, showers, baths, water closets, etc.

    • (be) Small laundry rooms.

    • (bf) Indoor swimming pool area.

    • (bg) Isolated pantries containing no cooking appliances in accommodation spaces.

    • (bh) Private sanitary facilities shall be considered a portion of the space in which they are located.

  • (iv) Tanks, voids and auxiliary machinery spaces having little or no fire risk such as;

    • (bi) Water tanks forming part of the ship’s structure.

    • (bj) Voids and cofferdams.

    • (bk) Auxiliary machinery space which do not contain machinery having a pressure lubrication system and where storage of combustibles is prohibited, such as:

    • (bl) . ventilation and air-conditioning rooms;

    • (bm) windlass room;

    • (bn) steering gear room;

    • (bo) stabilizer equipment room;

    • (bp) electrical propulsion motor room;

    • (bq) rooms containing section switchboards and purely electrical equipment other than oil-filled electrical transformers (above 10 kVA);

    • (br) shaft alleys and pipe tunnels;

    • (bs) spaces for pumps and refrigeration machinery (not handling or using flammable liquids).

    • (bt) Closed trunks serving the spaces listed above.

    • (bu) Other closed trunks such as pipe and cable trunks.

(67) For the purposes of sub-paragraphs (66)(d) and (66)(f), ducts shall be insulated over their entire cross-sectional external surface. Ducts that are outside but adjacent to the specified space, and share one or more surfaces with it, shall be considered to pass through the specified space, and shall be insulated over the surface they share with the space for a distance of 450 mm past the duct^footnote.

(68) Where it is necessary that a ventilation duct passes through a main vertical zone division, an automatic fire damper shall be fitted adjacent to the division. The damper shall also be capable of being manually closed from each side of the division. The control location shall be readily accessible and be clearly and prominently marked. The duct between the division and the damper shall be constructed of steel in accordance with sub-paragraphs (66)(a) and (66)(b) and insulated to at least the same fire integrity as the division penetrated. The damper shall be fitted on at least one side of the division with a visible indicator showing the operating position of the damper.

(69) Ducts passing through "A" class divisions shall meet the following requirements:

• (a) where a thin plated duct with a free cross sectional area equal to, or less than, 0.02 m² passes through "A" class divisions, the opening shall be fitted with a steel sheet sleeve having a thickness of at least 3 mm and a length of at least 200 mm, divided preferably into 100 mm on each side of a bulkhead or, in the case of a deck, wholly laid on the lower side of the decks penetrated;

• (b) where ventilation ducts with a free cross-sectional area exceeding 0.02 m², but not more than 0.075 m², pass through "A" class divisions, the openings shall be lined with steel sheet sleeves. The ducts and sleeves shall have a thickness of at least 3 mm and a length of at least 900 mm. When passing through bulkheads, this length shall be divided preferably into 450 mm on each side of the bulkhead. These ducts, or sleeves lining such ducts, shall be provided with fire insulation. The insulation shall have at least the same fire integrity as the division through which the duct passes; and

• (c) automatic fire dampers shall be fitted in all ducts with a free cross-sectional area exceeding 0.075 m² that pass through "A" class divisions. Each damper shall be fitted close to the division penetrated and the duct between the damper and the division penetrated shall be constructed of steel in accordance with paragraphs (66)(a) and (66)(b). The fire damper shall operate automatically, but shall also be capable of being closed manually from both sides of the division. The damper shall be fitted with a visible indicator which shows the operating position of the damper. Fire dampers are not required, however, where ducts pass through spaces surrounded by "A" class divisions, without serving those spaces, provided those ducts have the same fire integrity as the divisions which they penetrate. A duct of cross-sectional area exceeding 0.075 m² shall not be divided into smaller ducts at the penetration of an "A" class division and then recombined into the original duct once through the division to avoid installing the damper required by this provision.

(70) Ventilation ducts with a free cross-sectional area exceeding 0.02 m² passing through "B" class bulkheads shall be lined with steel sheet sleeves of 900 mm in length, divided preferably into 450 mm on each side of the bulkheads unless the duct is of steel for this length.

(71) All fire dampers shall be capable of manual operation. The dampers shall have a direct mechanical means of release or, alternatively, be closed by electrical, hydraulic, or pneumatic operation. All dampers shall be manually operable from both sides of the division. Automatic fire dampers, including those capable of remote operation, shall have a failsafe mechanism that will close the damper in a fire even upon loss of electrical power or hydraulic or pneumatic pressure loss. Remotely operated fire dampers shall be capable of being reopened manually at the damper.

(72) When passing through accommodation spaces or spaces containing combustible materials, the exhaust ducts from galley ranges shall be constructed in accordance with paragraphs (66)(a) and (66)(b). Each exhaust duct shall be fitted with:

• (a) a grease trap readily removable for cleaning;

• (b) an automatically and remotely operated fire damper located in the lower end of the duct at the junction between the duct and the galley range hood and, in addition, a remotely operated fire damper in the upper end of the duct close to the outlet of the duct;

• (c) arrangements, operable from within the galley, for shutting off the exhaust and supply fans; and

• (d) fixed means for extinguishing a fire within the duct^footnote.

(73) Exhaust ducts from laundries shall be fitted with:

• (a) filters readily removable for cleaning purposes;

• (b) a fire damper located in the lower end of the duct which is automatically and remotely operated;

• (c) remote-control arrangements for shutting off the exhaust fans and supply fans from within the space and for operating the fire damper mentioned in (b); and

• (d) suitably located hatches for inspection and cleaning.

Construction and Arrangement of Steam Room

(74) Construction and Arrangement of Steam Rooms shall meet the following requirements:

• (a) The perimeter of the steam room may include changing rooms, showers and toilets.

• (b) Bathrooms with direct access to suite may be considered as part of it. In such cases, the door between suite and the bathroom need not comply with fire safety requirements.

• (c) If a steam generator of more than 5 kW is contained within the perimeter, the suite boundary should be constructed to an A-0 standard. If a steam generator of more than 5 kW is not contained within the perimeter the steam generator should be protected by A-0 standard divisions, and pipes leading to the discharge nozzles should be lagged.

• (d) All spaces within the perimeter are to be protected by a fire detection and alarm system.