Fire Prevention – 1

Fire is the combination of Three Factors, what are these

A substance that will burn, Ignition Source, supply of oxygen, usually from air

Fires are classified according to the types of material, which are acting as the
source, what are these Classifications
Class A - Fires burning wood, glass fibre, upholstery and furnishings
Class B - Fires burning liquids such as lubricating oil and fuels
Class C - Fires burning gas fuels such as liquefied petroleum
Class D - Fires burning combustible metals such as magnesium and
aluminium
Class E - Fires burning any of the above materials together with high voltage
electricity
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What are the Four Principle Types of Portable Fire Extinguishers found on
board ships
Water/Soda acid type extinguishers
Foam extinguishers
Dry powder type extinguishers
Carbon dioxide extinguishers

Where would you expect to find a Foam Extinguisher

It would be located in the Engine Room, in the vicinity of Flammable Liquids,
also Bunker Stations

What different types of Fire Fighting Foam are there

AFFF - synthetic type
Protein based Foams; Ox's blood
Which can be low expansion for use on decks etc for fire-fighting, or
High expansion, which can be used in Machinery Spaces

What does AFFF stand for and where would you use this type of Extinguisher
AFFF stands for: Aqueous Film Forming Foam
This would be used on Class B Fires, fires burning liquids such as lubricating
oils and fuels

On what type of Fires would you use a Foam Extinguisher

Class B Fires: Fires burning liquids such as lubricating oil and fuels

On what type of Fire would you use a Dry Powder Fire Extinguisher
The Dry Powder can be used on all classes of Fire, but it has no cooling effect

Where would you expect to find a Dry Powder Extinguisher

It is usually located near Electrical Equipment in the Machinery Space and
elsewhere on the Ship

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Where would you expect to find a Soda Acid Extinguisher,i.e. Water
Accommodation areas

On what type of Fire would you use a Soda Acid Extinguisher,i.e. Water
This type of Extinguisher would be used on Class A Fires: Fires burning
wood, glass fibre, upholstery and furnishings
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How much foam is produced from a 9L Foam Extinguisher
litres of Foam 72

What is the duration of a 9L Foam Fire Extinguisher

Approximate duration of around 50 seconds

What is the range of a Foam Fire Extinguisher

The range of a Foam Fire Extinguisher is roughly 7m

What is the duration and range of a 136L Trolley Foam Extinguisher

The duration of a 136L Foam Trolley Extinguisher is 15 minutes
approximately with a range of around 18m

What testing and maintenance is done regarding Soda Acid and Foam
Extinguishers
The extinguisher containers are pressure vessels, therefore require testing
Containers are initially tested to 25 bar every year for five years and thereafter
at four yearly intervals to 20 bar
On Soda Type Extinguishers 20% of contents should be discharged per year
and replenished with Foam Type 50%
Where practical the operating mechanism of portable extinguishers should be
examined every three months

Sketch and describe the Chemical Foam type of Extinguisher

The main container is filled with sodium bicarbonate solution and a long inner
polythene container is filled with aluminium sulphate. The inner container is
sealed by a cap, held in place by a plunger. When the plunger is unlocked by
turning it, the cap is released. The extinguisher is then inverted for the two
liquids to mix. Carbon dioxide is produced by the reaction, which pressurises
the container and forces out the foam

Sketch and describe the Mechanical Foam type Fire Extinguisher

The outer container is filled with water. The central container holds a carbon
dioxide charge and a foam solution. A plunger mechanism with a safety guard
is located above the central container. When the plunger is depressed, the
carbon dioxide is released and the foam solution and water mix. They are
then forced out through a special nozzle, which creates the Mechanical Foam.
This Extinguisher has an internal pipe and is operated upright

How does a Foam Nozzle work

The foam nozzle works on the Venturi Principle where air is drawn into the
nozzle aerating the foam solution for good quality fire fighting foam

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Sketch and explain a Foam Fire-fighting Installation
Here an Automatic Foam Induction System is shown. The Automatic Inductor
Unit ensures the correct mixing of Water and Foam compound which is then
pumped to hydrants, deck or machinery space for use. The foam compound
tank is sealed to protect the contents from deterioration and has linked
compound supply and air vent valves. To operate the system, these two
linked valves are opened and the Fire Pump started. Foam mixing is carefully
metered by the automatic inductor unit. The Fire Pump and compound tank
must be located outside the protected space

Briefly explain how High Expansion Foam is produced

High expansion foam is produced by means of a Foam Generator, where from
Foam Concentrate and Seawater, 1000 times quantity is achieved. The
generator blows air through a net sprayed with foam concentrate and water.
The vastly expanded foam is then diverted away to the space to be protected.
The foam is an insulator and an absorber of radiant heat; it also excludes
oxygen from the fire

What is fitted in a Foam or Water Type Fire Extinguisher that ensures liquid,
not gas comes out on discharge
A diplobe or internal pipe is fitted in the Fire Extinguisher, which is connected
to the extinguisher hose and travels to the bottom of the extinguisher
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Describe and sketch a Soda Acid Extinguisher

The container of the Extinguisher holds a sodium bicarbonate solution. The
screw on cap contains a plunger mechanism covered by a safety guard.
Below the plunger is a glass phial containing sulphuric acid. When the plunger
is struck, the glass phial is broken and the acid and sodium bicarbonate mix.
The resulting chemical reaction produces carbon dioxide gas, which
pressurises the space above the liquid, forcing it out through the internal pipe
to the nozzle

Sketch and describe a Dry Powder Fire Extinguisher

The outer container contains a sodium bicarbonate powder. A capsule of
carbon dioxide gas is located beneath a plunger mechanism in the central
cap. On depressing the plunger the carbon dioxide gas forces the powder up
a discharge tube and out of the discharge nozzle

With regards Dry Powder Extinguishers, what testing and maintenance should
be carried out
Being a pressure vessel, the container is tested to 35 bar every four years
Operating mechanism checked, where practical every three months

What is a good practice before using a Dry Powder Extinguisher

It is good practice to give a Dry Powder Extinguisher a shake before use, as
the Extinguisher could have been lying for a while causing the powder to clog
up

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 Fire Prevention – 2
On what type of Fire would you use a CO2 Extinguisher
Class B and C Fires and Electrical Fires

Sketch and describe a CO2 Extinguishers

A CO2 Extinguishers consists of a very strong container that is used to store
liquid carbon dioxide under pressure. A central tube provides the outlet
passage for the carbon dioxide, which is released either by a plunger-bursting
disc or a valve operated trigger. The liquid changes to a gas as it leaves the
Extinguisher and passes through a swivel pipe or hose to a discharge horn

With regards CO2 Extinguishers, what testing and maintenance is carried out
Being a pressure vessel, the CO2 Extinguisher is initially tested to 207 bar
and after every ten years and after two such tests, every five years
Carbon Dioxide Extinguishers should also be weighed every six months to
check for leakage

Where would you expect to find a CO2 Extinguisher

Machinery spaces, particularly near electrical equipment, such as
switchboards

Where are CO2 Extinguishers not permitted

CO2 Extinguishers are not permitted in the living quarters of the
accommodation
Note within the accommodation block, CO2 extinguishers are available in the
Cargo Control room, Bridge and Radio Room where dry powder could
damage this apparatus

Why are CO2 Extinguishers not permitted in the accommodation

Because if used in a confined space, it could be lethal
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Why is an Alarm Sounded when CO2 is released into the Engine Room
An Alarm is sounded to inform personnel in the Engine Room that the release
of CO2 is imminent. The type of Alarm will be visual and sound different from
Engine Room Alarm and General Alarm
CO2 can not support Life

What does the opening of the CO2 release cabinet do

It sets off an Alarm in the Engine Room to warn personnel that the release of
CO2 is imminent, It also stops all ventilation

What happens to the CO2 System in Drydock

In Drydock the CO2 System must be made inoperable

What are the requirements of a Fixed CO2 Fire Fighting Installation

The System must give 40% saturation of the Compartment to be filled
of the CO2 charge must be discharged into the Compartment within the 85%
first two minutes

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What are the two types of CO2 Fixed Installations used on board ships for
Fire Fighting
The two types of systems are: Battery System and Bulk System

Sketch and describe the Battery CO2 System

The above system shows a Battery CO2 System for a Machinery Space. On
opening the release cabinet, this will sound the alarm in the Engine Room,
warning personnel that release is imminent and that they should vacate the
Engine Room. Opening of the cabinet will also stop ventilation. Before release
of CO2, a head count must be done to see all personnel are accounted for
and the Machinery Space must be sealed When the operating handle is
pulled, this opens a set of CO2 starting bottles, which in turn supply CO2 to
an operating piston via a safety valve. The piston in turn allows the battery of
CO2 bottles to be released to the Engine Room. This is known as a "One
Shot" method

Sketch and describe a Bulk CO2 System

The sketch above shows a Bulk CO2 System. The System consisting of a
large insulated vessel which holds CO2 at a working pressure of 21 bar at
around -20°C. To maintain this pressure and temperature a refrigeration
circuit is required, one in standby, the other in operation. As it is essential to
maintain pressure in the vessel, a heater is also incorporated. The System will
discharge into the Engine Room and Hold via a main discharge valve,
opening of this valve will shut down ventilation and activate the CO2 alarm,
warning personnel of the imminent discharge of CO2, all personnel must then
be accounted for and space sealed before discharge of CO2 With this
System, the actual line to the Engine Room and Other Spaces, where the
CO2 is discharged to, will have an individual manual valve and as the System
is a Bulk System and the Spaces being discharged to will have different
areas, a Chart will pre-determine how long each valve will be opened for, to
give proper discharge coverage for each space

On what type of vessel would you expect to find a Bulk CO2 System and what
is normally incorporated into these systems
You would normally expect to find a Bulk CO2 System on a Cargo or Ro-Ro
type vessel where hold areas need Fire-Fighting Protection and the Cargo
Space System is normally arranged for smoke detection, alarm and CO2
flooding
Small air sampling pipes from the individual cargo holds are led into a cabinet
on the Bridge. Air is drawn from each hold by a small fan and each pipe is
identified for its particular hold. If smoke is drawn into the cabinet from one of
the holds it will set off an alarm. The smoke is also passed into the
Wheelhouse where it can be detected by personnel on watch
The location of the fire can be identified in the cabinet and the hold distribution
valve below the cabinet is operated. This valve shuts off the sampling pipe
from the cabinet and opens it to the CO2 Main, leading to the Bulk CO2
discharge manifold. A chart indicating the amount of time the release valve is
to be opened for and this is done by first opening the main discharge valve to
the manifold, setting off CO2 alarms

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What are the Safety Features fitted to a Battery CO2 System
A Stop Valve to stop discharge of CO2 to the Machinery Space
A Safety Valve between the Starting Cylinders and Operating Piston. This is
to prevent operation of the System due to leaking Starting Bottles
Pressure Alarm in discharge line to give an indication of an accidental escape
or leaking CO2 bottle from the Battery

What are the alarms fitted to a Bulk CO2 System

Low level Alarm; loss of 5% volume
High Level Alarm; increase of contents over 98% volume
Leakage Alarm past Main Discharge Valve
Alarm when Main Discharge Valve is opened

What is the purpose of the two sets of relief valves on a Bulk CO2 System
The purpose of the two sets of relief valves on a Bulk CO2 System is that one
set being an L P Set being set at 24.5 bar and designed to relieve excess
pressure to atmosphere in the event of over pressure
The H P Set is at 27 bar and is required to discharge into the Compartment,
i.e. in the event of a Fire in the Bulk CO2 Compartment, this causes a rapid
rise in pressure and in theory CO2 will discharge into the compartment,
extinguishing the fire

What can be fitted over Relief Valve Vents on a bulk CO2 system to give an
indication of leakage
Balloons

What is the Re-entry Procedure once a Machinery Space has been Flooded
with CO2 or Halon
Once CO2 or Halon Flooding has taken place, the Space should be continued
to be Boundary Cooled
Only when the Extinguished Fire has been left long enough to cool down, can
the Space be re-entered. Note: early re-entry can lead to re-ignition
Re-entry should be done by personnel wearing breathing apparatus, taking
water spray hoses with them to cool down any hot surfaces. Note: Re-entry
should also take place from the lowest point remote from the seat of the Fire,
if possible
Cooling and smoke dispersal are the first priorities to provide an atmosphere
in which others can operate and gradually bring machinery back into service
Where the Machinery Space Fire involves electrical equipment then only Dry
Powder of Carbon Dioxide Extinguishers can be used until the equipment is
isolated

What are the advantages of CO2 Systems compared to Halon Systems

CO2 is more Environmentally Friendly also Halon Systems are being phased
out
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What can you tell me about Halon Systems, with regards to new installations
and existing ones
SOLAS prohibits the installation of new or portable systems in all ships from

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1st October 1994 and providing existing fixed installations and portable
extinguishers remain serviceable and fit for purposes, they may remain in
place (Ref: MGN 80 (Aug 1998))

What are the advantages of Halon Systems over CO2 Systems

Less Halon is needed to extinguish a Fire than CO2 therefore less storage
space is required
Also the atmosphere in a Halon flooded Space is not toxic, although does
contain some highly irritant gases when extinguishing

Halon Fire-fighting System, describe it

In a Halon Fire-fighting system, Halon bottles are strategically placed around
the Machinery Space. The amount of Halon (1301) required for Fire-fighting is
very little. Each bottle has its own definition mechanism. This is operated from
a remote location outside the Machinery Space

On opening the Halon release cabinet, this will sound the Halon Alarm in the
Engine Room, which will let personnel know that the release of Halon is
imminent and that the Space should be evacuated. Ventilation to the space
should then be stopped and space sealed. Before release of Halon, all
personnel should first be accounted for

What %/Ratio Halon is required to extinguish a Fire in a Compartment

5%
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What advantage do Inert Gas producing units used for Fire Fighting
Installations have over CO2 and Halon Systems
Inert Gas Producing Units have the advantage of being able to continuously
produce Inert Gas. A bottle storage system, such as CO2 or Halon Flooding is
a "one shot" Fire Extinguisher which leaves a ship unprotected until further
gas supplies can be found

Explain and sketch a Funnel Inert Gas System

In a Boiler Funnel Inert Gas System, exhaust gas is taken from the Boiler
Uptakes and passed through a scrubber tower where the gas is cleaned with
sulphur and excess carbon being removed
The Gas which by then is considered inert and mainly contains Nitrogen and
Carbon Dioxide with less than 5% Oxygen, is then supplied via blowers and
deck seal which acts as a non-return valve, along deck pipes to cargo banks
The inert gas being used to blanket the oil cargo during discharging
operations. Empty tanks are filled with gas and the inert gas is blown out
when oil is loaded

Describe an Inert Gas Generator

The Inert Gas Generator burns fuel in designed quantities to produce perfect
combustion. This produces an exhaust gas, which is largely nitrogen and
carbon dioxide with a very small oxygen content
The exhaust gases pass to a cooling and washing chamber to remove sulphur
and excess carbon. The washed or scrubbed gas is now inert and passes to a

7
distribution system for Fire Fighting. The complete unit is arranged to be
independently operated in order to supply inert gas for as long as the fuel
supply lasts
On tankers the inert gas can be supplied and used to blanket the oil cargo
during discharging operations. Empty tanks are filled with gas and inert gas is
blown out when oil is loaded

What are the various cut-outs and alarms in a Funnel Inert Gas System
High oxygen level; above 5%
Loss of sea-water pressure/flow
Fan/blower failure
High gas temperature alarm

What is the gas analysis after the Scrubber Tower on an Inert Gas System
Oxygen: 0-1%; Alarm at 5%
Carbon-monoxide: 0
Carbon Dioxide: 14-15%
Nitrogen: 85%

What is the purpose of the Deck Seal on an Inert Gas System

The purpose of the Deck Seal is to act as a non-return valve and prevent the
back flow of gases, i.e. hazardous to non-hazardous

What type of Fire Detection Equipment did you have on board your Ship
Flame Detector
Smoke Detector
Heat Detector

Where would you find Heat Detectors and why

Heat type Fire Detectors would be used in places such as the Galley, where
other types of Detectors would give false alarms

What is the Principle Operation of a Heat Detector

This type of Heat Detector uses two bi-metalic strips/coils attached to a
vertical support bracket. When temperature is present, the bi-metalic strips
will start to move, at a fixed temperature the first strip will hit a stop, the
second strip continuing to move, thus the contact is made and triggers the
alarm

What is the Principle Operation of a Flame Detector

As Flame has a characteristic Flicker Frequency of 25Hz, use is made of this
fact to trigger an alarm. Flickering radiation from flames reaching the detector
lens/filter unit, which only allows infra-red rays to pass and be focused upon
the cell. The signal from the cell goes into the selective amplifier, which is
tuned to 25Hz, then to a time delay unit (to minimise incidence of False
Alarms) then to an alarm circuit

What is the Principle Operation of a Smoke Detector

The above detector, of the light scatter type uses a photo cell separated by a
barrier from a semi-conductor intermittently flashing light source housed in an

8
enclosure whose containment allows smoke but not light inside. When smoke
is present in the enclosure, light is scattered around the barrier on the
photocell and an alarm is triggered

Where are Infra-Red type Fire Detectors best situated

They are best situated in machinery spaces and boiler rooms, where there is
a high risk of fire

What type of Detector should be fitted in conjunction with an Infra-Red type

Fire Detector
It should be used in conjunction with a Smoke Detector, to give an early
warning of fire
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Once a Fire Detector has detected or sensed a fire, what happens

Associated with Fire Detectors is a Circuit connected to an Alarm Panel,
which is usually situated on the Bridge, where the Alarm is accepted, usually
there is a Repeater Panel in the Engine Control Room. The Panel giving an
indication on which Deck and Zone the Detector was activated. Someone will
then be sent to investigate and verify if it is a Fire or a False Alarm

What action would you take in the event of Fire breaking out in the Machinery
Space
If a Fire breaks out, the alarm should be raised and the Bridge informed
immediately. If the Ship is in Port, the Local Fire Authority should be called. If
possible, an attempt should be made to extinguish or limit the fire by any
means possible (a Fire in its first few minutes can usually be readily
extinguished)
Ventilation fans should be stopped (should stop automatically on activation of
fire alarm). Openings to the space should be sealed to reduce the supply of
air to the fire and to prevent it spreading. Any fuel lines feeding the fire or
threatened by it should be isolated. If practicable, combustible materials
adjacent to the Fire should be removed
After the Fire has been extinguished, precautions should be taken against
spontaneous re-ignition
Personnel, unless wearing breathing apparatus, should not re-enter a space
in which a fire has occurred before it has been fully ventilated

What is Boundary Cooling and the reasons for it

It should be remembered that a Fire exists in three dimensions and therefore
has six sides, therefore can be transmitted through bulkheads due to radiant
heat, i.e. causing combustible materials in adjacent compartments to catch
Fire. Therefore, this radiant heat is prevented by Boundary Cooling of all sides
of the compartment on fire, using water spray hoses

What pumps in the Engine Room would supply the Fire Main
As well as the Main Fire Pump, several pumps are arranged to supply the Fire
Main, their number and capacity set by legislation (MCA for UK registered
Ships)
These pumps are normally: ballast pumps, general service pumps

9
State the regulations regarding the Emergency Fire Pump
The Emergency Fire Pump is to be located remote from the Machinery Space
and with Independent Means of Power, which could be a diesel engine or
from the Emergency Switchboard

State the capabilities of a Ships Main Fire Pump

It must be capable of supplying water to, at least two hoses and nozzles in the
Ship and they must produce a good jet of water simultaneously

What is, and where would you find, the International Shore Connection
This is a standard size Flange which is fitted with a suitable coupling suitable
for the Ships Fire Hoses. The Flange is slotted in order to fit any shore side
Fire Main and enable water to be brought on board Ship lying alongside.
Usually located on the Bridge
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Sketch an Automatic Sprinkler System for the Ships Accommodation and

explain
The sketch above shows an Automatic Sprinkler System, which provides a
network of Sprinkler Heads throughout Protected Accommodation Zones

The Sprinkler Heads in the Accommodation both detect and extinguish fires.
The Sprinkler Head is closed by a quartazoid bulb, which contains a liquid that
expands considerably on heating, i.e. in the event of a Fire. When excessively
heated, the liquid expands, shatters the bulb and water will issue from the
sprinkler head. A deflector plate on the Sprinkler Head causes the water to
spray out over a large area

The water is supplied initially from a tank pressurised by compressed air and
fresh water. Once the tank pressure falls, as a Sprinkler Head issues water, a
salt water pump cuts in automatically to maintain the water supply as long as
possible. The system is initially charged with fresh water to reduce corrosion
effects

Each Sprinkler Zone has a Flow Alarm, which will be set off when a Sprinkler
Head operates. This will sound an alarm and give an indication of which Zone
on an Alarm Panel, normally on the Bridge
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What is a Water Fog based Fire-fighting Installation

Unlike conventional sprinkler systems utilising water under low pressure in
heavy large diameter pipes, the Water Fog Extinguishing System operates by
using water under very high pressure in small bore pipes. This reduces the
weight and volume of the system and permits easy installation on board
The Water Fog System produces micro-droplets of water; thus a very large
cooling surface is created with only small quantities of water. With this system
the amount of water required for successful fire extinguishing is much less
than conventional sprinkler systems. This allows for the use of fresh water as
the medium. Also with the Water Fog System, the Water Fog is propelled into
hidden spaces just like Halon or CO2, providing the most reliable Fire-

10
extinguishing

In accommodation areas this system can use a dual-purpose nozzle which

incorporates a quartazoid bulb for detection and extinguishing

The Water Fog System is also suitable for Engine Rooms

Safety
What does SOLAS stand for
Safety of Life at Sea

Is the Code of Safe Working Practises Law

Yes it is Law

What Safety Equipment should there be at a Bunker Station

Safety Equipment that should be found at a Bunker Manifold are a Foam Fire
Extinguisher, Oil Spill Gear such as Spill Absorbent and there should also be
communications of some sort

In the occurrence of an Oil Spill, what do you do

Stop the flow of oil. If possible contain the spill on Deck and start clean up
procedure using appropriate oil spill equipment and raise the alarm. There will
be a set Drill for Oil Spill Procedure
If the oil has spilt into the Sea, if in Port, the Port Authorities must be
informed, if at Sea, the Coastguard must be informed
The time, place or position, type of oil and approximate quantity must be
recorded in the Engine Room Log, Bridge Log and Oil Record Book.
Circumstances of spill must also be recorded

What is "Water Hammer" and its danger

When steam lines are shut down it is possible from various causes for them to
fill with water. If steam is allowed to enter a line with water, the steam starts to
move the water down the line. The steam in contact with the water eventually
condenses and a vacuum is formed causing the water to be pulled back to the
valve which has just been opened and striking it with a heavy blow, often
fracturing the valve. If the valve fractures, it may end disastrously with risk of
loss of life

How is "Water Hammer" prevented

In order to prevent water hammer it is necessary to open up drains on steam
lines being brought into use. The water must be completely drained so it
leaves the line clear. The steam valve is then cracked open so the line is
heated and brought up to near working temperature. Any condensate found
during this process drains out of the line via the drains previously opened. The
valve may then be opened and drains closed

11
What are the dangers of excessive lubrication in Start Air Compressors
There is a danger that excessive cylinder lubrication in Start Air Compressors
could lead to explosions in Air Start Lines/Manifolds
Excessive lubrication can lead to carry over with compressed air, being
deposited in the Receiver then transferred to the Air Start Manifold, where a
leaking Air Start Valve may allow hot gases from combustion into the Air Start
Manifold, ignite the oil vapour, causing an explosion

The Main Engine Cylinder Lubricating Oil Tank is empty, oil drums are on the
Main Deck beside run down Pipes to the Tank and air is handy - What do you
do
If need be, the engine should be stopped to allow filling of the tank. Under no
circumstances should you use the air hose to pressurise the drums to speed
up the process. Oil drums are not a pressure vessel and it could lead to a
fatality
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Would you enter an enclosed space if the oxygen levels were recorded as
19% or below
NO

What oxygen levels would you regard as safe to enter an enclosed space
20%
or above

What is regarded as an enclosed space

An enclosed space is a space that cannot be assumed to contain oxygen
These are spaces such as a duct keel, a double bottom tank, a cofferdam,
boiler, etc
What is the procedure for entering an enclosed space
An enclosed space entry permit is required which can only be obtained with
the permission of a responsible officer. This permit will list the conditions to be
met before entry
The space should be well ventilated before entry takes place; Before entry,
oxygen levels must be checked using an O2 Meter
Another person should remain at the entrance while the person is in the
space, to summon assistance if necessary and there should also be means of
communications arranged between the person within the space and the
attendant
Lifelines and harnesses should be available at the entrance to the space
If the occupant appears to be in danger, the attendant should first raise the
alarm, but should not enter the space unless equipped with breathing
apparatus

Describe a Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus Set

The Self-contained Breathing Apparatus Set usually consists of one or two
cylinders of compressed air kept in a harness, which is carried on the back.
Cylinders usually being charged to a pressure of around 200-240 bar. The
high pressure air is fed through a reducing valve and then to a demand valve,
which can be set in positive pressure mode, that will supply a constant

12
demand of air, or in demand mode, which will only supply air as the wearer
demands. A non-return valve permits breathing out to atmosphere
The set incorporates a warning whistle that sounds on low air pressure
A standard cylinder will allow for about 20-25 minutes operation, but this will
also depend on a few factors, such as workload of wearer
What checks should be carried out on a Breathing Apparatus Set before
entering a smoke filled compartment
:The following checks should be carried out
,Ensure the bottle is full
Check operation of low pressure whistle, and
Face seal check should be carried out

How do you carry out a Face Seal Check on a Breathing Apparatus Set
Don Face Mask, tighten straps properly and turn air supply on. Then switch
air supply off and breath in, the mask should stick to face. Note, pressure
gauge should not drop rapidly either. Switch air supply back on

What should be used with Breathing Apparatus Sets when entering a Space
or Compartment
A time in/time out board should be used. This board will normally have a built
in clock. On this board the time the wearer enters a space is noted, plus bottle
number and pressure, the time the wearer is due out is calculated as the time
the low-pressure whistle operates at. This gives the wearer time to exit
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Explain the procedure for lowering a Lifeboat with Gravity Davits

The Lifeboat is held in against a cradle by ropes called gripes and the cradle
is secured by pins. With the gripes and securing pins (sometimes known as
harbour pins) are removed and released, the winch handbrake can be
released to enable the cradle to slide down and over the Ship's side

A "Tricing-in Pennant (wire)" brings the Lifeboat close to the Ship's side to
enable it to be boarded

The Bowsing Lines which fasten to each end of the Lifeboat are then used to
hold it in to the Ship's side, the "Tricing-in Pennants" then being released

A Painter is then led from the forward end of the Lifeboat and attached
somewhere forward of the lifeboat on the ship. Lifeboat plugs are then
secured

Once the Crew are on board the Lifeboat the bowsing lines are released and
the Lifeboat is lowered to the water. The Engine is started, Falls released and
then the Painter

What Speed does the Centrifugal Brake on a Lifeboat Winch limit the Speed
of Fall of the Lifeboat to
The Centrifugal Brake on a Lifeboat will not allow the Lifeboat to fall faster
than 36m/min

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What must the capability of Gravity Davits be with regards heel of ship
The Davits must be able to lower the Lifeboats when the Ship is heeled to 15°
on either side

What are the two Brakes on a Lifeboat Winch

The two brakes on a Lifeboat are a centrifugal brake and a weighted brake
known as a "Dead-Man's Brake" i.e. once you let go of the braking lever, the
brake will come into action stopping the fall of the Lifeboat

What survival equipment would you expect to find in a Lifeboat

Survival equipment would include oars, a boathook, a compass, distress
rockets, first aid equipment, rations and fresh water

What is done to ensure that a Lifeboat Engine will start when needed
At least once every two weeks, but better still once a week the Lifeboat
Engine should be run, all Fuel and Oil Levels checked and the gearbox should
be operated i.e. Engine run astern and ahead to check Operation
Most Engines are air cooled, but some are a combination of air and water, in
which case water level checked and if operating in cold climates anti-freeze
levels also
Larger Lifeboat Engines will be battery started, therefore condition of battery
must be checked i.e. S G of electrolyte and that electrolyte is covering cell
plates

How is a Liferaft Launched

A Liferaft is simply launched by releasing it from its lashings, a painter is
secured to the Ship and the Liferaft container is thrown over the side. Inflation
takes place automatically, the container bursting open and the Liferaft floats
clear. A pressurised cylinder of CO2 is used to inflate the raft. Liferafts must
normally be boarded from water level, dry if possible

Why is a Hydrostatic Release fitted to a Liferaft

In the event of the Vessel sinking, the hydrostatic release operates at a
predetermined water depth, releasing the Liferaft lashings, allowing the
Liferaft to float free and inflate

14
 Electrical
Emergency Supply
Where on the ship is the Emergency Generator Located
The Emergency Generator is located remotely from the Engine Room, usually
on the Accommodation Deck or at Weather Deck Level or above

What are the Essentials supplied by the Emergency Switchboard

Essentials are: Emergency Lighting, Alarms, Communications, Watertight
Doors and other services necessary to maintain safety and to permit safe
evacuation of the Ship by Lifeboats. Also you will find that a Steering Gear
Motor, Emergency Air Start Compressor and Emergency Fire Pump Motor are
supplied from the Emergency Switchboard

What is done to ensure the Emergency Generator is Always Available and

Will Start
The System should be checked regularly and operated weekly to ensure it's
availability if required. Fuel tanks should be kept full, ample cooling water in
radiator cooling system and starting equipment should be functional, i.e.
batteries should be fully charged or air receivers full

Explain how the Emergency Generator starts up in the Event of Total Power
Failure
The Start-up of the Emergency Generator is initiated by an Electrical Relay,
which monitors the normal Mains Power Supply. Falling Mains Frequency or
Voltage causes the "start-up" relay to operate the Generator Starting
Equipment. The Prime Mover may be electrically cranked from it's own 24V
battery and starter motor or air started from it's own air reservoir fitted local to
the Generator Engine. A manual start-up may also be initiated by push
buttons in the Main Control Room and in the Emergency Generator Room
Also when power loss occurs, the Breaker feeding the Emergency
Switchboard from the Main Switchboard opens. This Breaker is interlocked
with the Emergency Generator Breaker, which is normally open under normal
circumstances, but in the event of Total Power Failure, this breaker will close
when the Breaker feeding the Emergency Board from the Main Board opens.
Thus the Emergency Generator will feed the Emergency Switchboard

What is Sequential Starting

Sequential Starting is the automatic starting of essential equipment when
power is returned after a total power failure, i.e. equipment such as Steering
Gear

What is meant by Preference Tripping

Preference Tripping is the tripping of non-essential loads when an overload
condition occurs on a Generator
If a Generator Overload develops the Preference Trip Relay operates an
Alarm and acts to trip selected non-essential loads. These loads may trip at
set intervals depending on how essential the load is, i.e. 1st trip 5 seconds,
2nd trip 10 seconds

15
What are the Essentials supplied by the Emergency Switchboard
Essentials are: Emergency Lighting, Alarms, Communications, Watertight
Doors and other services necessary to maintain safety and to permit safe
evacuation of the Ship by Lifeboats. Also you will find that a Steering Gear
Motor, Emergency Air Start Compressor and Emergency Fire Pump Motor are
supplied from the Emergency Switchboard

What Loads are considered Non-essential

Loads considered as Non-essential are: Air Conditioning and Ventilation,
Laundry, Galley, Refrigeration and Deck Equipment
Explain what would happen if you were to lose a Generator
First the Standby Generator set would start up and automatically put itself on
the Board. If this did not happen, the Ship would "Black Out" and after a time
delay, usually 30 seconds, the Emergency Generator would start up and
supply the Emergency Switchboard, which supplies essential equipment

Explain Regulations regarding Power Supplies for Steering Gears

The Electrical Power Supply must be from two widely separate supplies i.e.
one from the Main Switchboard and the other from the Emergency Board
Electrical leads and fuses are to allow 100% overload, giving only short circuit
protection
If failure does occur on one system, the stand-by system will cut in within 45
.seconds
The Steering Motors will have sequential starting

Batteries
What are Batteries used for On-Board Ships
They are used for supplying essential power to: Radio Equipment, Telephone
Exchange, Fire Detection, General Alarm Circuits, etc. These Systems are
often supplied from two sets of batteries worked on a regular
charge/discharge cycle
They are also used as Emergency Supplies, i.e. for Emergency Generator
Start-up and Emergency Lighting. Being used in this case in a "stand-by" role
to give power when Main Supplies fail

What are the two Main Types of Battery commonly used on board Ships
Lead Acid and Alkaline

What are the Disadvantages and Advantages of a Lead Acid Battery

The Advantages of a Lead Acid Battery are; they require fewer cells to
achieve particular voltage and are reasonably priced
The Disadvantages are that they require regular attention to keep fully
charged, always require a trickle charge and they discharge on open circuit

What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Alkaline Batteries

The Advantages of Alkaline Batteries are that they retain charge on open
circuit and even if discharged, it can be left for long periods without adverse

16
effect
The Disadvantages are that they require a greater number of cells to produce
a particular Voltage
They are also more expensive than Lead Acid Batteries

What Gas is given off by Batteries while Charging

Hydrogen

When working on Batteries, what precautions should be take

Ensure the space is well ventilated, do not smoke or use naked lights and
also wear protective clothing such as apron, gloves and face shield
How do you ensure that Batteries are always in good working order
Where Lead Acid Batteries are used, they require a constant trickle charge,
but for both types of Battery a regular charge up is necessary

Check state of Battery using a Hydrometer; Lead Acid - S G 1270®1285

Alkaline is 1190 but S G for Alkaline Batteries does not change much during
charge or discharge

Ensure cells are covered with electrolyte, if not, top up with distilled water

Keep batteries dry and clean

Terminals should be smeared with Petroleum Jelly

Paralleling Generators
What is Load Sharing
Load Sharing is the equal balance of loads between Generators irrespective
of Load Changes

Describe how Synchronising Lamps are used to Parallel a Generator

This is normally used as a back-up or alternative way to the Synchroscope,
the Lamps are connected between the Incoming Generator and the Bus-bars.
The "Sequence Method" is the preferred one as it displays a rotation of Lamp
Brightness, which indicates, whether the incoming machine is running fast
(clockwise) or slow (anti clockwise). As with the Synchroscope, the Lamp
Sequence must appear to rotate slowly clockwise. Correct synchronisation
occurs when the top or "Key" lamp is dark and the two bottom lamps are
equally bright

What Conditions are Necessary to Parallel two Generators

The Speed of both Machines must be the Same i.e. the Frequency and the
Voltages must be the Same and in Phase

17
Protection Devices
Give reasons why Protection Equipment is essential in an Electrical
Distribution System
To disconnect and isolate faulty equipment in order to maintain the power
supply to the remaining healthy circuits in the system
To prevent damage to equipment from the thermal and magnetic forces that
occur during short circuit and overload faults
To protect personnel from electric shock

What is meant by Protection Discrimination

This is the ability of a Protection System to disconnect only Faulty Circuits and
to maintain the Electrical Supplies to Healthy ones
Discrimination is achieved by co-ordinating the Current Ratings and the Time
Settings of the Fuses and Over-current Relays used between the Generator
and the Load
The Devices nearest the Load having the lowest Current Rating and shortest
Operating Time; those nearest the Generator having the highest Current
Rating and longest Operating Time
i.e. a Motor Fault on a Centrifugal Pump would not cause the Generator
Breaker to Trip

Why do you require Earth Lamps on 220V Distribution Board when you have
them on the Main Switchboard
You require Earth Lamps on the 220V Distribution Board as well as the Main
Board, due to the air gap in step down transformer, i.e. 440V Earth Lamps
can not detect Earth on 220V systems due to the gap

Name the Trips found on a Generator Circuit Breaker

Over Current
Under Voltage
Reverse Power

What is the Function of the A V R

The function of the A V R is to regulate the Exciter Field Current
automatically, comparing the Generator Terminal Voltage with the Standard
Set Voltage and thus maintaining the Generator Terminal Voltage to a
Constant Value, regardless of Load Changes

What is Reverse Power Protection for

Generators intended to operate in Parallel must have a Reverse Power
Protection Trip. A Reverse Power Relay monitors the direction of power
flowing between the Generator and the Switchboard
If a Prime Mover Failure occurred the Generator would act as a Motor. The
Reverse Power Relay detects this fault and acts to trip the Generator Circuit
Breaker

What is the purpose of the Over Current Protection Trip

The purpose of the Over Current Protection is to Trip the Generator in
Overload situations. The Trip is usually set at 150% Operating Capacity and

18
has a time delay of usually 20 seconds. This allows for short periods of
Overload Currents. It also protects against a Short Circuit in the Generator

What is the purpose of the Under Voltage Trip

An Under Voltage Trip is fitted to all Generator Breakers. Its main function is
to Trip the Breaker when severe Voltage Dip (around 50%) occurs. The Under
Voltage Trip on a Generator Circuit Breaker also prevents it being closed
when the Generator Voltage is very low or absent

What is the Function of a Circuit Breaker

The Circuit Breaker is an Isolating Switch that also acts as a Fuse. It has two
designed ratings; one of normal safe working current, and the other against
overload, which may also have a time delay

What is the Function of a Fuse

The function of a Fuse is to give Short-circuit Protection and also Overload
Protection and operates in milliseconds

Miscellaneous
Draw and explain how Earth Lamps works
A direct earth on one pole will short circuit it's lamp, causing the other two to
shine brightly

How would you go about finding an Earth Fault in the System

Finding an Earth Fault would be by the process of elimination i.e. circuit
breakers would be opened and closed until earth fault disappeared, taking
care which breakers were being opened and closed as they maybe supply
essential loads at the time. It would be good practice to start with places such
as the Galley and Laundry where faults are common

What are the Causes of Single Phasing

Single Phasing can be caused when one of the three back up fuses blows or
if one of the contactor contacts is in open circuit

What is Single Phasing of a Motor

Single Phasing is where one of the 3-phase's supplying the Motor becomes
disconnected. The Motor will continue to run if this happens and can result in
Motor Burnout. The effect of Single Phasing is to increase the Current in the
two remaining Lines and cause the Motor to become very noisy due to
uneven Torque produced

What is the Normal Reading on and Insulation Test Meter

Infinity is a normal reading, but readings should be kept above 5
Meg-ohms

What would you consider a minimum Insulation Reading Resistance

Insulation Resistance must be kept above at least 1MW, the higher the

19
Insulation Resistance the better. Companies have their own Regulations, but
most Companies only allow readings above 5MOhms

How can you Reverse the Direction of a Motor

By swapping any two supply line connections over

Draw a Delta 3-Phase Connection

Draw a Star 3-Phase Connection

What sort of Starting Current do you get with a Direct On-Line Starter
6-8
times Full Load Current

When would a Star/Delta Starter be used on a Motor

Where a slow moving high inertia load is involved the starting time must be
considered because of the heating effect of the starting current and in this
case a Star/Delta Starter would be used
The Star/Delta Starter first connects the Starter Windings in Star and when
running changes over to Delta. The Star connection results in about 58% Line
Voltage being applied to each Phase with therefore a reduction in Starting
Current. The Starting Torque is also reduced to about 1/3 of its direct on-line
valve

Describe how a Self Excited A C Generator would work

The Self Excited A C Generator basically consists of a Synchronisis
Generator, where the 3-phase supply is generated, an A C Exciter and a
Rotary Rectifier and a Static Excitation Device
The Rotating Diodes change A C into D C for the D C Excitation Current,
which is supplied through Brushes. The Exciter in conjunction with the A V R
is used to monitor the correct Voltage under Load Changes

Describe how an A C Motor works

Most A C Motors on Ships are of the Induction or Squirrel Cage Motor types,
the principle of operation for which is as follows: The Starter is made up of
three separately phased Windings, to which a 3-phase supply is connected.
The Rotor has a series of Copper Conductors along its Axis, which are joined
by rings at the ends to form a Cage. When the motor is started, the Rotating
Magnetic Field induces an E M F in the Cage and thus a Current Flow. The
Current carrying Conductor in a Magnetic Field produces the Motor effect,
which turns the Rotor. The Motor Speed builds up to a value just less than the
Speed of Rotation of the Magnetic Field. The Motor Speed depends upon the
E M F induced in the Rotor and this depends upon the difference in Speed
between the Conductors and the Magnetic Field
A number of different Fixed Speeds are possible by changing the number of
Poles, i.e. Conductors

20
Safety
What is meant by the Term, Type Ex'd
Ex'd' = Flame Proof Enclosure
This is an enclosure that will withstand an Internal Explosion of Flammable
Gas within itself and dissipate heat from that explosion before reaching
outside atmosphere, which could ignite the gas in surrounding atmosphere,
i.e. a Ship's Battery Locker could be classed as Ex'd'

What is meant by the Term, Type Ex'e

Ex'e' = Increased Safety Equipment
Increased Safety Equipment is based primarily on the elimination of "open
sparking", i.e. equipment that does not have contacts

What is meant by the Term, Type Ex'i

Ex'i' = Intrinsically Safe
Equipment with circuits that do not generate enough heat to ignite a gas. This
generally means limiting circuits to less than 30V, 50mA

What is meant by the Term, Type Ex'p

Ex'p' = Pressurisation
This is where Equipment is Pressurised to prevent any gases entering
Equipment

What would you do if you found an Engineer in Electric Shock

First raise the alarm then isolate or switch off the current

If this is not possible, pull or push the victim away from the source, taking care
not to make electrical contact with the victim or the electrical source, i.e. use
something non-conductive

Once the victim has been removed from the electrical source, if the breathing
is feeble or ceased, artificial respiration should be started at once. Delay in
starting artificial respiration can prove fatal

Note: If artificial respiration is started at once, 70% of the victims recover. If

there is 3 (three) minutes delay, only 20% of victims recover

What minimum current can be regarded as Fatal

A shock current as low as 15mA ac or dc can be fatal

21
 Regulations
MARPOL
Annex 1 Oil
Annex 2 Noxious Liquid Substances in bulk
Annex 3 Packaged Harmful Substances
Annex 4 Sewage
Annex 5 Garbage
Annex 6 Exh. Gas emissions; NOx, SOx, etc

BILGE PUMPING
Non-special areas
Ship is proceeding on passage
The oil content must doesn’t exceed 15 ppm
The use of approved automatic monitoring equipment
The use of approved OWS

Special areas: the above plus

The OWS must be equipped with an automatic stop device
The bilge actually comes from E/R and doesn’t contain any chemicals or
mixed with cargo bilge, etc

SEWAGE
Sewage is covered in MARPOL Annex 4

The discharge of untreated sewage in controlled or territorial waters is usually

banned by legislation. Annex 4 requires ships to be equipped with an
approved sewage plant
Annex 4 prohibits ships from discharging sewage within 4 miles of the nearest
land, unless they have in operation an approved treatment plant

USA and Canada have set limits based on the ‘colliform count’ in the effluent
discharged in restricted water, which should not exceed 1000/100ml

Colliform: is a family of bacteria that live in the human intestines. They can be
counted easily in laboratories to indicate the amount of human waste present
in the sewage sample

GARBAGE
Annex 5 is now on force

There is a complete ban on dumping Plastics at sea. You should keep plastics
onboard for disposal ashore

Incinerator is to incinerate oily rags + papers

’But you have to log (time/quantity) in ‘Garbage Log Book

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Nothing to be dumped within 3 miles from land
Food disposal is only permitted beyond 12 miles

When reception facilities are in place in special areas, there will be a complete
ban on general dumping
*************************************************

what is the Importance of "M" Notices

M Notices are important as they convey very useful information such as

Merchant Shipping Notices (MSNs): which will only be used to convey

mandatory information, which must be complied with under British Legislation

Merchant Guidance Notes (MGNs): which will provide advice and guidance to
relevant parties in order to improve the Safety of Shipping and of Life at Sea

Marine Information Notes (MINs): which will provide information to a more

limited audience such as Training Establishments or Equipment
Manufacturers

What is the Regulation regarding use of Evaporators Inshore

Evaporators should not be used within 20 miles from Shore, due to risk of
pollutants being taken into the Freshwater System. Toxic substances may be
found in coastal waters e.g. ammonia compounds, sulphides and fluorides

What are the Marpol Restricted Areas

The Marpol Restricted Areas are: The Mediterranean Sea, Baltic Sea, Black
Sea, Red Sea, "Gulf Areas", North Sea, Antarctic, wider Caribbean Region
including Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea

Where On Board a Ship would you find Information on the Carriage of

Hazardous Substances
Information on the Carriage of Hazardous Substances would be found in the
IMDG (International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code), which would normally
be found on the Bridge

What would you do in the Event of an Oil Spill

Raise the Alarm, Inform Bridge and Chief Engineer
There should be a Set Drill for Oil Spills, which is practised regularly
If possible contain the Spill on deck and start clean up procedures using
appropriate Oil Spill Equipment
If the Oil has Spilt into the Sea:- If in Port, Port Authorities should be informed.
If at Sea, Coastguard should be informed
The Time of Spill should be Recorded with the Place or Position of Ship at the
Time of Spill along with Approximate quantity and Type of Oil
Circumstances of Discharge or Escape would be Logged in Oil Record Book
and Engine Room Log Book

23
What are the dangers of using Asbestos packings
Asbestos dust can cause serious lung diseases and lung cancers

If you have to work on Asbestos packings, what precautions would you take
We need to take every precaution to generate as little asbestos dusts as
possible. e.g. wetting them
Access to areas where work is taking place should be limited to personnel
.involved
Ventilate the area
Put warning signs
BA sets may be used

What RECORDS does the C/E have to keep

Oil Record Book
Garbage Record Book
Engine Room Log Book

WHY do we keep RECORDS on board

Because it is required by LAW
In case something goes wrong / dispute we have evidence to go back to
Records must be kept on board for at least 3 years

What CERTIFICAES the ship must have

Safety Equipment Certificate; required by SOLAS
Safety and Management Certificate; to show that the ship is complying with
ISM Code
Document of Compliance; issued for the company
Load Line Certificate
De-ratting Certificate

Consequences of non-compliance
If severe, the ship is stopped; i.e. detained
Master can go to jail / fines
Engineers can have their tickets suspended + jail + fines

Who does check

Surveyors from
Port State Inspection
Port Authorities
US Coast Guard; very strict

Oil Record Book must contain the following

Position of the ship; start – stop
Time of discharge; start – stop
Quantity + discharge rate; in Japan & Korea
Which tank is it discharging from
Type of bilge; FO / LO
Name of watch keeper, signature of C/E & Master

24