Chapter 10 - Fire safety

 Refuelling of ships should be carried out taking into account the special conditions imposed by low temperatures.

 Closing apparatus for ventilation inlets and outlets should be designed and located to protect them from ice or snow accumulation that could interfere with the effective closure of such systems.

  10.3.1 Fire-extinguishing systems should be designed or located so that they are not made inaccessible or inoperable by ice or snow accumulation or low temperature such that:

• .1 equipment, appliances, systems and extinguishing agents should be protected from freezing for minimum temperature for the intended voyage, as specified in paragraph 1.1.6;

• .2 precautions should be taken to prevent nozzles, piping and valves of any fire-extinguishing system from becoming clogged by impurities, corrosion or ice build up; and

• .3 exhaust gas outlets and pressure vacuum arrangements should be protected from ice build up that could interfere with effective operation.

  10.3.2 Water or foam extinguishers should not be located in any position that is exposed to freezing temperatures. These locations should be provided with extinguishers capable of operation under such conditions.

  10.3.3 Fire pumps and associated equipment (Polar Class ships)

• 10.3.3.1 Where a fixed fire-extinguishing system or alternative fire-extinguishing system situated in a space separate from the compartment containing the main fire pumps utilizes its own independent sea suction, this sea suction should be capable of being cleared of accumulations of slush ice.

• 10.3.3.2 Fire pump(s) including emergency fire pump(s) should, wherever reasonable and practicable, be installed in heated compartment(s) and in any event should be adequately protected from freezing for minimum temperature for the intended voyage, as specified in paragraph 1.1.6.

• 10.3.3.3 Isolating valves should be located so that they are accessible. Any isolating valves located in exposed positions should not be subject to icing from freezing spray. The fire main should be arranged so that external sections can be isolated and draining devices should be provided.

• 10.3.3.4 Hydrants should be positioned or designed to remain operable under all anticipated temperatures. Ice accumulation and freezing should be taken into account.

• 10.3.3.5 All hydrants should be equipped with an efficient two-handed valve handle.

 Components of the fire-fighting system which may be exposed to icing which could interfere with the proper functioning of that component should be adequately protected.

  10.5.1 Sufficient fire fighter's outfits should be readily available to the accommodation area and elsewhere as appropriate. Such fireman's outfits should be stored in positions as widely separated as practical.

  10.5.2 In addition to the fire fighter's outfits provided in accordance with paragraph 10.5.1, one spare fireman's outfit should be provided. The spare outfit should be stored in a warm location on the ship.