Chapter 14B - Structural Fire Protection Vessels of 500GT and Over

14B.1 General Requirements

(1) Table 14B.1 is a guide to the major requirements of this Chapter. The table is intended as a quick reference to the requirements and is not to be used in isolation when designing the fire safety arrangements.

Table 14B.1

14B.2 Structure

(1) The purpose of this Chapter is to contain a fire in the space of origin. For this purpose, the following functional requirements shall be met:

• (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.

(2) The hull, superstructures, structural bulkheads, decks and deckhouses shall be constructed of steel or other equivalent material.

(3) However, in cases where any part of the structure is of aluminium alloy, the following shall apply:

• (a) Insulation of aluminium alloy components of "A" or "B" class divisions, except structure which, in the opinion of the Administration, is non-load-bearing, shall be such that the temperature of the structural core does not rise more than 200ºC above the ambient temperature at any time during the applicable fire exposure to the standard fire test. This insulation shall be applied on all sides except for the upper sides of decks and the outside of the vessel.

• (b) Special attention shall be given to the insulation of aluminium alloy components of columns, stanchions and other structural members required to support lifeboat and liferaft stowage, launching and embarkation areas, and "A" and "B" class divisions to ensure that for members:

  • (i) supporting lifeboat and liferaft areas and "A" class divisions, the temperature rise limitation specified in (a) above shall apply at the end of one hour; and

  • (ii) supporting "B" class divisions, the temperature rise limitation specified in (a) above shall apply at the end of half an hour.

• (c) Aluminium alloy components of divisions that are required to be equivalent to steel (identified by an * in tables 1 and 2) shall be insulated with a certified system approved for use in Aluminium A Class Bulkheads and Decks as applicable. Alternatively, such structure may be insulated with 25 millimetres of 100kg/m³ mineral wool or equivalent for other insulation types, approved for use in “A” class divisions

(4) Composite structures:

• (a) The insulation shall be such that the temperature of the laminate does not rise more than the minimum temperature of deflection under load of the resin at any time during the specified fire exposure. The temperature of deflection under load shall be determined in accordance with the requirements of a recognised international standard. This insulation shall be applied on all sides except for the upper sides of decks and the outside of the vessel.

• (b) Special attention shall be given to the insulation of composite components of columns, stanchions and other structural members required to support lifeboat and liferaft stowage, launching and embarkation areas, and "A" and "B" class divisions to ensure that for members:

  • (i) supporting lifeboat and liferaft areas and "A" class divisions, the temperature rise limitation specified in .1 above shall apply at the end of one hour; and

  • (ii) supporting "B" class divisions, the temperature rise limitation specified in .1 above shall apply at the end of half an hour.

• (c) Special attention shall be given to the fixing of fire door frames in bulkheads constructed of materials other than steel. Measures shall be taken to ensure that the temperature of the fixings when exposed to fire does not exceed the temperature at which the bulkhead itself loses strength.

(5) Crowns and casings of a machinery space of category A shall be A60 divisions and openings therein, if any, shall be suitably arranged and protected to prevent the spread of fire.

(6) For structures in contact with sea-water, the required insulation shall extend to at least 300 millimetres below the lightest waterline.

(7) Fire divisions using steel equivalent, or alternative forms of construction may be accepted if it can be demonstrated that the material by itself, or due to non-combustible insulation provided, has the fire resistance properties equivalent to the “A” or “B” class standard required.

(8) Insulation required by 14B.2(7) shall be such that the temperature of the structural core does not rise above the point at which the structure would begin to lose its strength at any time during the applicable exposure to the standard fire test. For 'A' Class divisions, the applicable exposure is 60 minutes, and for 'B' Class divisions, the applicable exposure is 30 minutes.

14B.3 Main Vertical Zones and Horizontal Zones

(1) Hull, superstructure and deckhouses in way of accommodation and service spaces shall be subdivided into main vertical zones by "A" class divisions. These divisions shall have insulation values in accordance with tables 1 and 2.

(2) As far as practicable, the bulkheads forming the boundaries of the main vertical zones above the bulkhead deck shall be in line with watertight subdivision bulkheads situated immediately below the bulkhead deck. 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 800 m² on any deck. The length or width of a main vertical zone is the maximum distance between the furthermost points of the bulkheads bounding it.

(3) Such bulkheads shall extend from deck to deck and to the shell or other boundaries.

(4) When a main vertical zone is subdivided by "A" class divisions for the purpose of providing an appropriate barrier between spaces protected and not protected by a sprinkler system, the divisions shall be insulated in accordance with the fire insulation and integrity values given in tables 1 and 2.

14B.4 Bulkheads Within a Main Vertical Zone

(1) All 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 the Tables 14B.1 and 14B.2.

(2) All such divisions may be faced with combustible materials.

(3) All corridor bulkheads, where not required to be "A" class shall be "B" class divisions which shall extend from deck to deck except:

• (a) when continuous "B" class ceilings or linings are fitted on both sides of the bulkhead, the portion of the bulkhead behind the continuous ceilings 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 practical in the opinion of the Administration;

• (b) the corridor bulkheads of "B" class materials may terminate at a ceiling in the corridor provided such a ceiling is of material which, in thickness and composition, is acceptable in the construction of "B" class divisions. All doors and frames in such bulkheads shall be so constructed and erected to provide a "B" class standard.

(4) All bulkheads required to be "B" class divisions, except corridor bulkheads, shall extend from deck to deck and to the shell or other boundaries unless continuous "B" class ceilings or linings are fitted on both sides of the bulkhead, in which case the bulkhead may terminate at the continuous ceiling or lining.

14B.5 Fire Integrity of Bulkheads and Decks

(1) In addition to complying with the specific provisions for fire integrity of bulkheads and decks mentioned elsewhere in this section, the minimum fire integrity of bulkheads and decks shall be as prescribed in tables 1 and 2.

(2) The following requirements shall govern application of the tables:

• (a) Tables 1 and 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, such spaces are classified according to their fire risk as shown in categories (1) to (9) below. The title of each category is intended to be typical rather than restrictive. The number in parentheses preceding each category refers to the applicable column or row in the tables. Space Category to be (5) or (8) dependent on surface area of the floor.

  • (1) Control stations

    • Spaces containing emergency sources of power and lighting.

    • Wheelhouse and chartroom.

    • Spaces containing the vessel's radio equipment.

    • Fire-extinguishing rooms.

    • Fire control rooms and fire-recording stations.

    • Control room for propulsion machinery when located outside the machinery space.

    • Spaces containing centralized fire alarm equipment.

  • (2) Corridors and lobbies
    • Passenger and crew corridors and lobbies.
  • (3) Accommodation spaces
    • Cabins, dining rooms, lounges, offices, pantries containing no cooking appliances^footnote, and similar spaces.
  • (4) Stairways
    • Interior stairways, lifts and escalators (other than those wholly contained within the machinery space(s)) 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.
  • (5) Service spaces (low risk)
    • Lockers and store-rooms (including refrigerator and cold rooms) not having provisions for the storage of flammable liquids and having areas less than 4m², drying rooms and laundries, and spaces containing marine Evacuation Systems
  • (6) Machinery spaces of category A
    • Spaces so defined.
  • (7) Other machinery spaces
    • Spaces so defined, excluding machinery spaces of category A.
    • Sprinkler, drencher or fire pump spaces.
  • (8) Service spaces (high risk)
    • Galleys, pantries containing cooking appliances, paint and lamp rooms, lockers and store-rooms (including refrigerator and cold rooms) having areas of 4m² or more, spaces for the storage of flammable liquids, workshops other than those forming part of the machinery spaces, and spaces containing vehicles or craft with fuel in their tanks (garages), or lockers storing such fuels storage lockers for gaseous fuels for domestic purposes
  • (9) Open decks
    • Open deck spaces and enclosed promenades having no fire risk. Air spaces (the space outside superstructures and deckhouses).

(3) 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.

(4) External boundaries which are required to be of steel or other equivalent material may be pierced for the fitting of windows and portlights provided that there is no requirement for such boundaries to have "A" class integrity elsewhere in this section. Similarly, in such boundaries which are not required to have "A" class integrity, doors may be of combustible materials, substantially constructed.

Table 14B.2 - Fire Integrity of Bulkheads Separating Adjacent Spaces

Table 14B.3 - Fire Integrity of Decks Separating Adjacent Spaces

Notes: To be applied to both Tables 14B.2 and 14B.3, as appropriate.

For the application of 14B.3(1) an asterisk, where appearing in table 2, except for category (9), shall be read as "A-0".

(5) Atriums shall be within enclosures formed of “A” class divisions having a fire rating determined in accordance with Table 14B.2

(6) Decks separating spaces within atriums shall have a fire rating determined in accordance with Table 14B.3

14B.6 Protection of Stairways and Lifts in Accommodation and Service Spaces

(1) A stairway shall be of steel frame construction except where the Administration sanctions the use of other equivalent material, and shall be within enclosures formed of "A" class divisions, with positive means of closure at all openings, except that:

• (a) an isolated stairway which penetrates a single deck only may be protected at one level only by at least "B" class divisions and self-closing door(s); and

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

(2) A stairway enclosure shall have direct communication with the corridors and be of sufficient area to prevent congestion, having in view the number of persons likely to use them in an emergency. In so far as is practical, stairway enclosures shall not give direct access to galleys, machinery spaces, service lockers, or other enclosed spaces containing combustibles in which a fire is likely to originate.

(3) A lift trunk shall be so fitted to prevent the passage of flame from one 'tween-deck to another and shall be provided with means of closing to permit the control of draught and smoke.

14B.7 Openings in "A" Class Divisions

(1) Except for hatches between store and baggage spaces, and between such spaces and the weather decks, all 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.

(2) The construction of all doors and door frames in "A" class divisions, with the means of securing them when closed, shall provide resistance to fire as well as the passage of smoke and flame, as follows:

• (a) Doors in “A” Class divisions shall comply with the Fire Test Procedures Code, Annex 1, Part 3.

• (b) Doors approved without the sill being part of the frame, shall be installed such that the gap under the door does not exceed 12 millimetres. A non-combustible sill shall be installed under the door such that floor coverings do not extend beneath the closed door, except where it can be demonstrated that the flooring is not readily ignitable when tested in accordance with Sections 4.1.1 & 4.1.2 of MSC/Circ.1006. The maximum time for the flame to extinguish under the aforementioned test conditions shall not be more than 20 seconds in accordance with the definition provided in Chapter 2. Alternatively, floor coverings certificated in accordance with Annex 1, Part 5 of the IMO’s 2010 FTP Code (Test for Surface Flammability) may be accepted.

• (c) Sliding steel watertight doors need not be insulated.

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

(4) 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 3.5º opposing closure;

• (b) the approximate time of closure for hinged fire doors shall be no more than 40 seconds and no less than 10 seconds from the beginning of their movement with the ship in the 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 the 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 also be capable of release, individually, from a position at 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 shall 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 after disruption of the control system or central power supply at least ten times (fully opened and closed) 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 being 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; and

• (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 supply 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.

(5) Where 'A' Class divisions are penetrated for the passage of electric cables, pipes, trunks, ducts, etc., or for girders, beams or other structural members, arrangements shall be made to ensure that the fire resistance is not impaired.

14B.8 Openings in "B" Class Divisions

(1) 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 as follows:

• (a) Doors in “B” Class divisions shall comply with the Fire Test Procedures Code, Annex 1, Part 3;

• (b) Ventilation opening may be permitted in the lower portion of such doors. When such an opening is in or under a door the total net area of the opening(s) shall not exceed 0.05m². When such an opening is cut in a door it shall be fitted with a grill made of non-combustible material.

• (c) Doors approved as “B” Class without the sill being part of the frame, shall be installed such that the gap under the door does not exceed 25 millimetres.

(2) 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, arrangements shall ensure that the fire resistance is not impaired.

14B.9 Windows and Portlights (Also see 5.4 and 5.5)

(1) All windows and portlights in bulkheads within accommodation spaces, service spaces and control stations shall be so constructed to preserve the integrity requirements of the type of bulkheads in which they are fitted.

(2) 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.

14B.10 Details of Construction

(1) In accommodation and service spaces, control stations, corridors and stairways:

• (a) air spaces enclosed behind ceilings, panelling or linings shall be suitably divided by close-fitting draught stops not more than 14 metres apart; and

• (b) in the vertical direction, enclosed air spaces, including those behind linings of stairways, trunks, etc. shall be closed at each deck.

(2) The draught stops shall be non-combustible and are to form a continuation above the ceiling of the bulkhead below or the other side of the panelling or lining to the bulkhead, as far as possible.

(3) Where the structure or 'A' Class divisions are required to be insulated, it shall be ensured that the heat from a fire is not transmitted through the intersections and terminal points of the divisions or penetrations to uninsulated boundaries. Where the insulation installed does not achieve this, arrangements shall be made to prevent this heat transmission by insulating the horizontal and vertical boundaries or penetrations for a distance of 450 millimetres.

(4) Without impairing the efficiency of the fire protection, the construction of ceilings and bulkheads shall allow a fire patrol to detect any smoke originating in concealed and inaccessible places, except where there is no risk of fire originating in such places.

(5) When gaseous fuel is used for domestic purposes, the arrangements for the storage, distribution and utilisation of the fuel shall be such that, having regard to the hazards of fire and explosion which the use of such fuel may entail, the safety of the vessel and the persons onboard are preserved.

(6) Open flame gas appliances provided for cooking, heating or any other purposes, shall comply with the requirements of EC directive 90/396/EEC or equivalent and, the installation of open flame gas appliances shall comply with the appropriate provisions of Annex D.

(7) Where toilets providing little or no fire risk and lockers providing storage for safety equipment only, are located entirely within the “A” Class boundaries of a stairway enclosure, these spaces are not required to be treated as separate Category Spaces and in in such cases, the provision of “C” Class bulkheads between these spaces and the stairway enclosure are considered acceptable.

(8) When located within the same fire zone, multiple staircases or lifts may be contained within a single “A” Class trunk, with the provision of “C” Class bulkheads between the staircases or lifts.

14B.11 Restricted Use of Combustible Materials

(1) Except in spaces protected by an automatic sprinkler system and fully addressable fire detection system in accordance with 14B.2.16, all linings, grounds, and ceilings shall be of non-combustible materials. However, the use of combustible linings grounds and ceilings in Machinery Spaces is prohibited.

(2) Insulation materials shall be non-combustible, however core insulation of refrigerator and cold rooms need not be. Vapour barriers and adhesives used in conjunction with insulation, as well as insulation of pipe fittings for cold service systems and domestic water need not be non-combustible, but they shall be kept to the minimum quantity practicable and their exposed surfaces shall have low flame spread characteristics.

(3) Pipes penetrating 'A' or 'B' Class divisions shall be of approved materials having regard to the temperature such divisions are required to withstand.

(4) Pipes conveying oil or combustible liquids through accommodation and service spaces shall be of approved materials having regard to the fire risk.

(5) Materials readily rendered ineffective by heat are not to be used for overboard scuppers, sanitary discharges, and other outlets which are close to the waterline and where the failure of the material in the event of fire would give rise to the danger of flooding.

(6) Furniture in the corridors and escape routes shall be of a type and quantity not likely to obstruct access. Additionally, furniture along escape routes shall be secured in place to prevent shifting if the vessel rolls or lists.

(7) Primary deck coverings within accommodation spaces, service spaces and control stations shall be of a type which shall not readily ignite, or give rise to toxic or explosive hazards at elevated temperatures. Reference is also to be made to the Fire Test Procedures Code, Annex 1, Parts 2 and 5.

(8) Upholstery, bedding components and suspended textiles required to comply with the Fire Test Procedures Code or an equivalent standard shall be clearly labelled by the manufacturer stating the standard that they meet and any washing or cleaning instructions needed to ensure they remain fire retardant. These labels are not to be removed.

(9) In spaces where penetration of oil products is possible, the surface of insulation shall be impervious to oil or oil vapours. Insulation boundaries shall be arranged to avoid immersion in oil spillages so far as is practicable.

14B.12 Means of Escape

(1) The purpose of this Section is to provide means of escape so that persons onboard can safely and swiftly escape to the lifeboat and liferaft embarkation deck. For this purpose, the following functional requirements shall be met:

• (a) safe escape routes shall be provided;

• (b) escape routes shall be maintained in a safe condition, clear of obstacles; and

• (c) additional aids for escape shall be provided as necessary to ensure accessibility, clear marking, and adequate design for emergency situations.

(2) Stairways and ladders shall be arranged to provide ready means of escape to the lifeboat and liferaft embarkation deck from all passenger and crew accommodation spaces and service spaces in which the crew are normally employed, other than machinery spaces. In particular, the following provisions shall be complied with:

• (a) Below the bulkhead deck two means of escape, at least one of which shall be independent of watertight doors, shall be provided from each watertight compartment, main vertical zone or similarly restricted group of spaces. Exceptionally one of the means of escape may be dispensed with, due regard being paid to the nature and location of spaces and to the number of persons who might normally be accommodated or employed there.

• (b) Above the bulkhead deck, there shall be at least two means of escape from each vertical fire zone or similarly restricted spaces or group of spaces, at least one of which is to give access to a readily accessible escape which shall provide continuous fire shelter from the level of its origin to the appropriate survival craft embarkation deck.

• (c) Within each main vertical zone there shall be at least one readily accessible enclosed stairway providing continuous fire shelter, where practical, at all levels up to the appropriate lifeboat and liferaft embarkation decks or the highest level served by the stairway, whichever level is the highest. The width, number and continuity of the stairways shall be satisfactory for the number of persons likely to use them.

• (d) Access from the stairway enclosures to the lifeboat and liferaft embarkation areas shall avoid high fire risk areas.

• (e) Stairways serving only a space and a balcony in that space shall not be considered as forming one of the required means of escape.

• (f) If a radio room or wheelhouse has no direct access to the open deck, two means of escape shall be provided, one of which may be a window of sufficient size or another means.

• (g) Stairways are not to exceed 3.5 metres vertical rise without the provision of a landing.

• (h) In the case where direct access to the appropriate survival craft embarkation deck as required by (a) and (b) is not practical, a ready accessible escape which shall provide continuous fire shelter from the level of its origin to the appropriate open deck with subsequent direct passage to the embarkation deck can be accepted provided that these escape routes including external staircases, have emergency lighting and slip free surfaces under foot.

• (i) Protection of access from the stairway enclosures to the lifeboat and liferaft embarkation areas shall be provided either directly or through protected internal routes which have fire integrity and insulation values for stairway enclosures as determined by tables 14B.2 and 14B.3, as appropriate.

• (j) Where public spaces span three or more open decks and contain combustibles such as furniture and give access to other enclosed spaces, each level within the space shall have two means of escape, one of which is to give access to a readily accessible escape which shall provide continuous fire shelter from the level of its origin to the appropriate survival craft embarkation deck.

(3) Two means of escape shall be provided from each machinery space. In particular, the following provisions shall be complied with:

• (a) The two means of escape shall consist of either:

  • (i) two sets of steel ladders as widely separated as possible, leading to doors in the upper part of the space similarly separated and from which access is provided to the appropriate survival craft embarkation decks. One of these ladders shall provide continuous fire shelter from the lower part of the space to a safe position outside the space. This shelter shall be of steel or equivalent material, insulated where necessary, and provided with a self closing door at the lower end. If access is provided at other levels each level shall be provided with a steel or equivalent material self-closing door; or

  • (ii) one steel ladder leading to a door in the upper part of the space from which access is provided to the embarkation deck and additionally, in the lower part of the space and in a position well separated from the ladder referred to, a steel door capable of being operated from each side and which provides access to a safe escape route from the lower part of the space to the embarkation deck.

  • (iii) All inclined ladders and stairways fitted with open treads in machinery spaces being part of or providing access to escape routes, but not located within a protected enclosure, are to be fitted with steel shields attached to their undersides.

• (b) One of the means of escape from any such space required by 14B.12(3)(a) may be dispensed with on sailing vessels with small machinery spaces, so long as either a door or a steel ladder and walkways provide a safe escape route to the embarkation deck with due regard being paid to the nature and location of the space and whether persons are normally employed in that space.

• (c) Two means of escape shall be provided from a machinery control room located within a machinery space, at least one of which shall provide continuous fire shelter to a safe position outside the machinery space.

• (d) Two means of escape shall be provided from the main workshop within a machinery space. At least one of these escape routes shall provide a continuous fire shelter to a safe position outside the machinery space.

(4) Lifts shall not be considered as forming one of the required means of escape.

(5) In exceptional circumstances, a single means of escape may be accepted for spaces other than accommodation spaces that are entered only occasionally, if the escape route does not pass through a galley, machinery space or watertight door.

(6) Adequate deck area shall be provided at muster stations and embarkation areas having due regard to the expected number of persons. Generally, muster stations shall be provided close to the embarkation stations. Each muster station shall have sufficient clear deck space to accommodate all persons assigned to muster at that station, but at least 0.35m² per person. 14B.13

14B.13 Arrangements of Escape Routes

(1) Stairways and corridors used as means of escape shall be not less than 700 millimetres in clear width and shall have a handrail on one side. Stairways and corridors with a clear width of 1,800 millimetres and over shall have handrails on both sides. "Clear width" is considered the distance between the handrail and the bulkhead on the other side or between the handrails.

(2) The angle of inclination of stairways shall be, in general, 45°, but not greater than 50°, and in machinery spaces and small spaces not more than 60°.

(3) Doorways which give access to a stairway shall be at least the minimal required width for the stairway being served.

(4) Hatches in both bulkheads and decks shall be not less than 600 x 600 millimetres in clear width^footnote.

(5) Where (1) to (4) cannot be reasonably achieved, alternatives may be agreed by the Administration.

(6) All doors in escape routes shall be openable from either side. In the direction of escape they are all to be openable without a key. All handles on the inside of weathertight doors and hatches shall be non-removable. Where doors are lockable measures to ensure access from outside the space shall be provided for rescue purposes.

14B.14 Emergency Escape Breathing Devices

(1) Emergency escape breathing devices (EEBD’s) shall comply with the Fire Safety Systems Code. At least one spare emergency escape breathing device shall be kept onboard.

(2) All vessels shall carry at least two EEBD’s within accommodation spaces, and at least two EEBD’s shall be carried in each main vertical zone.

(3) On all vessels, within the machinery spaces, EEBD’s shall be situated ready for use at easily visible locations, which can be reached quickly and easily at any time in the event of fire. The number and location shall take into account the layout of the machinery space and the number of persons normally working in the space. The number and location of these devices shall be indicated in the fire control plan.

14B.15 Ventilation Systems

(1) Ventilation ducts shall be of non-combustible material except flexible bellows of short length not exceeding 600 millimetres used for connecting fans to the ducting in air-conditioning rooms. Short ducts, however, not generally exceeding 2m in length and with a cross-section not exceeding 0.02m² need not be non-combustible, subject to the following conditions:

• (a) they shall be of a suitable material having regard to the risk of fire;

• (b) they shall be used only at the end of the ventilation device; and

• (c) they shall not be situated less than 600 millimetres, measured along the duct, from an opening in an "A" or "B" class division including continuous "B" class ceilings.

(2) 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 millimetres and a length of at least 200 millimetres, divided preferably into 100 millimetres 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 millimetres and a length of at least 900 millimetres. When passing through bulkheads, this length shall be divided preferably into 450 millimetres 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 Sections 14B.15(5)(a) and (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.

(3) Ducts provided for the ventilation of machinery spaces of category A, galleys or spaces containing vehicles or craft with fuel in their tanks shall not pass through accommodation spaces, service spaces, or control stations unless they comply with Section 14B.15(5).

(4) Ducts provided for the ventilation of accommodation spaces, service spaces or control stations shall not pass through machinery spaces of category A, galleys or spaces containing vehicles or craft with fuel in their tanks unless they comply with Section 14B.15(5).

(5) As permitted by Sections 14B.15(3) and 14B.15(4) ducts shall be either:

• (a) constructed of steel having a thickness of at least 3 millimetres for ducts with a free cross-sectional area of less than 0.075 m², at least 4 millimetres for ducts with a free cross-sectional area of between 0.075 m² and 0.45 m², and at least 5 millimetres 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 Sections 14B.15(5)(a) and (b); and

• (f) insulated to "A-60" class standard throughout the spaces they pass through, except for ducts that pass through spaces of category (9) or (10) as defined in SOLAS II-2/9.2.2.3.2.2.

(6) For the purposes of Sections 14B.15(5)(d) and 14B.15(5)(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 millimetres past the duct^footnote.

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

(8) For a control station outside machinery spaces and other normally manned control stations, practical measures shall be taken to ensure that ventilation, visibility and freedom from smoke are maintained so that, in the event of fire, the machinery and equipment contained in the control station may be supervised and continue to function effectively. Alternative and separate means of air supply shall be provided; air inlets of the two sources of supply shall be so disposed that the risk of both inlets drawing in smoke simultaneously is minimized. These requirements need not apply to control stations situated on, and opening on to, an open deck, or where local closing arrangements would be equally effective.

(9) Exhaust duct(s) from a galley range shall be constructed of "A" class divisions where passing through accommodation spaces and/or spaces containing combustible materials. In addition to the requirements of 14B.15(3) an exhaust duct shall be fitted with:

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

• (b) a fire damper located in the lower end of the duct and in addition, a fire damper in the upper end of the duct (if required for the extinguishing medium);

• (c) arrangements for shutting off the exhaust fans;

• (d) fixed means for extinguishing a fire within the duct;

• (e) local controls to activate extinguishing system; stop the fans and close the fire dampers shall be grouped in one position immediately outside the main entrance to the galley.

(10) 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 14B.15(5)(a) and (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.

(11) Inlets and outlets of ventilation systems shall be capable of being closed from outside the space 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.

(12) Power ventilation of accommodation spaces, service spaces, control stations and machinery spaces shall be capable of being stopped from an easily accessible position outside the space being served. This position shall not be readily cut off in the event of a fire in the spaces served. The means provided for stopping the power ventilation of a machinery space shall be entirely separate from the means provided for stopping ventilation of other spaces.

(13) Atriums shall be equipped with a smoke extraction system.^footnote The smoke extraction system shall be activated by the required smoke detection system and be capable of manual control. The fans shall be sized such that the entire volume within the space can be exhausted in 10 min or less

(14) Store-rooms containing highly flammable products shall be provided with ventilation arrangements that are separate from other ventilation systems. Ventilation shall be arranged to prevent the build up of flammable vapours at high and low levels. The inlets and outlets of ventilators shall be positioned so that they do not draw from or vent into an area which would cause undue hazard, and shall be fitted with spark arresters.

(15) Ventilation systems serving Category 'A' machinery spaces shall be independent of systems serving other spaces.

(16) All enclosed spaces containing free standing fuel tanks shall be ventilated independently of systems serving other spaces.

(17) Ventilation shall be provided to prevent the accumulation of dangerous concentrations of flammable gas which may be emitted from batteries.

(18) Ventilation openings may be fitted in and under the lower parts of cabin and public space doors in corridor bulkheads. The total net area of any such openings is not to exceed 0.05m².

(19) For spaces containing vehicles or craft with fuel in their tanks or lockers storing such fuels, see 14.1. For additional requirements for the ventilation of domestic gaseous fuel, see Annex D for Recreational Fire Appliances.

(20) Exhaust ducts from laundries shall be fitted with filters readily removable for cleaning purposes.

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

• (a) fire dampers, including their relevant means of operation, however, the testing is not required for dampers located at the lower end of the duct in exhaust ducts for galley ranges, which shall be of steel and capable of stopping the draught in the duct; 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 connections or by welding.

(22) 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.

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

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

(25) Ventilation openings or air balance ducts between two enclosed spaces shall not be provided except as permitted by Sections 14B.8(1)(b).

(26) 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 shall 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.

(27) Where a ventilation room serves only such an adjacent machinery space and there is no fire division between the ventilation room and the machinery space, the means for closing the ventilation duct or ducts serving the machinery space shall be located outside of the ventilation room and machinery space.

(28) Where a ventilation room serves such a machinery space as well as other spaces and is separated from the machinery space by a "A-0" class division, including penetrations, the means for closing the ventilation duct or ducts for the machinery space can be located in the ventilation room.

14B.16 Fixed Fire Detection and Fire Alarm Systems and Automatic Sprinkler, Fire Detection and Fire Alarm Systems

(1) The purpose of this section is to detect a fire in the space of origin and to provide for alarm for safe escape and fire-fighting activity. For this purpose, the following functional requirements shall be met:

• (a) fixed fire detection and fire alarm system installations shall be suitable for the nature of the space, fire growth potential and potential generation of smoke and gases; and

• (b) manually operated call points shall be placed effectively to ensure a readily accessible means of notification.

(2) All control stations, accommodation and service spaces, including corridors and stairways, except spaces which afford no substantial fire risk such as void spaces and sanitary spaces, shall be provided throughout with:

• (a) an automatic sprinkler where the pumps and alternative supply components shall be capable of supplying the required flow rate and pressure for the space with the greatest hydraulic demand^footnote. For the purposes of this calculation, the design area used to calculate the required flow and pressure shall be the deck area of the most hydraulically demanding space, separated from adjacent spaces by “A” class divisions. The design area need not exceed 280 m². For application to a small ship with a total protected area of less than 280 m², the Administration may specify the appropriate area for sizing of pumps and alternate supply components.

• (b) a fully addressable fire detection and fire alarm system of an approved type complying with the requirements of the Fire Safety Systems Code, Chapter 8 and 9, or an equivalent standard acceptable to the Administration.

(3) A fixed fire detection and fire alarm system shall be fitted in all enclosed spaces except those containing no significant fire risk (toilets, bathrooms, void spaces, etc). Ceiling void spaces containing equipment that could present a fire risk shall be fitted with a fixed fire detection and fire alarm system. Manually operated call points shall be placed to ensure a readily accessible means of notification. The fixed fire detection and fire-alarm system shall be installed in accordance with the requirements of SOLAS II-2/7 and the Fire Safety Systems Code, Chapter 9, and shall be audible externally.

14B.17 Public Address System

(1) For vessels having a length of 85 metres or more, a public address system complying with the requirements of SOLAS III/6.5 shall be available throughout the accommodation and service spaces and control stations and open decks.

14B.18 Oil Fuel Arrangements

(1) Arrangements for the storage, distribution and utilisation of oil fuel shall be such as to minimise the risk of fire or explosion.

(2) As far as practicable, oil fuel tanks shall be part of the vessel's structure and shall be located outside Category 'A' machinery spaces.

(3) Where oil fuel tanks, other than double bottom tanks, are necessarily located adjacent to or within Category 'A' machinery spaces, at least one of their vertical sides shall be contiguous to the machinery space boundaries, and is preferably to have a common boundary with the double bottom tanks, and the area of the tank boundary common with the machinery spaces shall be kept to a minimum. Where the vertical boundary of a tank directly exposed to a machinery space meets the vessel's side plating at an acute angle, a small horizontal surface at the base of the tank, necessary to accommodate practical constructional considerations may be permitted. If the arrangement of the machinery is such that a tank with a large horizontal surface at the base is necessary then a cofferdam with suitable ventilation arrangements, to protect the base of the tank from the effect of a machinery space fire, shall be specially considered. Oil fuel tanks situated within the boundaries of Category 'A' machinery spaces shall not contain oil fuel having a flashpoint of less than 60°C. Except for vessels constructed of materials other than steel, where steel tanks shall be provided, the use of free standing oil fuel tanks is prohibited.

14B.19 Lubricating Oil Arrangements

(1) Arrangements for the storage, distribution and utilisation of oil used in pressure lubrication systems shall be such as to minimise the risk of fire or explosion.

14B.20 Arrangements for Other Flammable Oils

(1) Arrangements for the storage, distribution and utilisation of other flammable oils employed under pressure in power transmission systems, control and activating systems and heating systems shall be such as to minimise the risk of fire or explosion.

14B.21 Prohibition of Carriage of Flammable Oils in Forepeak Tanks

(1) Oil fuel, lubricating oil and other flammable oils shall not be carried in forepeak tanks.

14B.22 Space Heaters

(1) Space heaters, if used, shall be fixed in position and so constructed as to reduce fire risks to a minimum. The design and location of these units shall be such that clothing, curtains or other similar materials cannot be scorched or set on fire by heat from the unit.

14B.23 Covered Category (9) (Open Deck) Spaces

(1) Covered open decks that have less than 30% communicating openings shall be treated as a Category (9) space with the following additional provisions:

• (a) a fixed fire detection and alarm system according to Section 14B.16 shall be provided;

• (b) The space shall be protected by a suitable sprinkler system as defined in Chapter 2; and

• (c) ventilators and exhausts in accordance with Section 5.5 shall not terminate in these spaces when serving Accommodation, Control Stations, garages or Machinery Spaces.

14B.24 Arrangements for ‘Recreational Fire Appliances’

(1) ‘Recreational Fire Appliances’ as defined in Chapter 2, shall meet the requirements of Annex D

14B.25 Emergency Training and Drills

(1) See Annex C for requirements

14B.26 Additional Equivalence Considerations

(1) None

14B.27 Alternative Design and Arrangements

(1) Vessels may follow Section 1.9 on Alternative Design and Arrangements for this chapter as allowed by SOLAS II-2/17.

(2) The engineering analysis required by 1.9(3) shall be prepared and submitted to the Administration, based on the guidelines^footnote and shall include, as a minimum, the following engineering analysis elements:

• (a) determination of the ship type and space(s) concerned;

• (b) identification of prescriptive requirement(s) with which the ship or the space(s) will not comply;

• (c) identification of the fire and explosion hazards of the ship or the space(s) concerned, including;

  • (i) identification of the possible ignition sources;

  • (ii) identification of the fire growth potential of each space concerned;

  • (iii) identification of the smoke and toxic effluent generation potential for each space concerned;

  • (iv) identification of the potential for the spread of fire, smoke or of toxic effluents from the space(s) concerned to other spaces;

• (d) determination of the required fire safety performance criteria for the ship or the space(s) concerned addressed by the prescriptive requirement(s) in particular:

  • (i) performance criteria shall be based on the fire safety objectives and on the functional requirements of this chapter;

  • (ii) performance criteria shall provide a degree of safety not less than that achieved by using the prescriptive requirements; and

  • (iii) performance criteria shall be quantifiable and measurable;

• (e) detailed description of the alternative design and arrangements, including a list of the assumptions used in the design and any proposed operational restrictions or conditions; and

• (f) technical justification demonstrating that the alternative design and arrangements meet the required fire safety performance criteria.