Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2018L01173:body:0:p20
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2018L01173
Segment Type: other
Provision Reference: 
Character Range: 52221–55086

installation, fire-extinguishing appliances, means of access, details of the ventilation system and other relevant information for fire control.
At all times while a ship is in service, the fire-fighting equipment must be maintained ready for use, tested and inspected in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. For the purpose of this requirement a ship is not in service when:
       it is in for repairs or lay-up (either at anchor or in port) or in dry-dock;
       it is declared not in service by the operator or the owner's representative; and
       in the case of passenger ships, there are no passengers on board.
The maintenance plan (which may be computer based) must be kept on board the ship and made available for inspection.
All fire-fighting equipment should be accessible at all times and emergency escapes and passages should be free of obstructions.
Portable extinguishers which have been discharged must be immediately recharged or replaced with an equivalent unit. Seafarers should not interfere with or discharge any fire extinguishers without a reasonable excuse and should report any faults or cases of accidental discharge to a responsible officer.

4.2              Fire Drills and Training
Seafarers must receive instructions on fire safety on-board the ship and on their assigned duties before the voyage begins, including the location and operation of any fire-fighting systems and appliances that they may need to use.
A copy of the fire training manual as required by SOLAS Regulation II-2/15 and a copy of the training manual on Life Saving Appliances of the ship as required by SOLAS Regulation III/35 must be provided in each crew mess room and recreation room or in each crew cabin. Seafarers should familiarise themselves thoroughly with these training manuals.
Seafarers should be trained in the operation and use of the following fire-fighting systems and appliances:
       all types of portable fire extinguishers carried on board;
       self-contained breathing apparatus;
       hoses with jets and spray nozzles;
       any fixed fire-fighting system such as carbon dioxide or foam;
       fire blankets;
       fireman's outfit;
       fire doors and smoke dampers; and
       escape systems and appliances.
Although many fires occur at port it may be difficult to arrange a drill with the local fire authorities. This can be partly resolved by instructing seafarers on the shore requirements using the contents of the fire wallet (the fire wallet should be positioned by the access arrangements and should outline information for shore fire authorities who are required to fight a fire on board ship).
Fire drills should be planned to enable regular practice in the various emergencies that may occur depending on the type of ship and the cargo.
The locations should be changed in successive drills