- (a) Write standing orders detailing the procedures to be followed in the event of a fire within the machinery spaces.(6)
(b) List FOUR types of portable fire extinguisher that could be found within the machinery spaces, stating on which class of fire EACH should be used.(4)
(a) Standing orders in the event of a fire within machinery spaces (6)
The following procedures must be followed immediately upon discovery or alarm of fire:
- Raise the alarm – operate nearest fire alarm call point and inform bridge/engine control room without delay.
- Shut down machinery as required – stop fuel pumps, fans, and other systems supplying the fire; operate remote quick-closing valves for fuel.
- Isolate ventilation – close engine room ventilation flaps and fire dampers to restrict oxygen supply.
- Deploy first-aid firefighting equipment – use nearest appropriate portable extinguisher or fixed hose reel if safe to do so.
- Prepare for boundary cooling – activate fire main hydrants to prevent spread of heat/fire to adjacent bulkheads.
- Consider activation of fixed system – if the fire cannot be controlled locally, prepare and release fixed suppression systems (CO₂/foam/water mist) once all personnel have evacuated and accounted for.
(b) Four types of portable fire extinguisher in machinery spaces (4)
- Dry powder extinguisher – used on Class B (flammable liquids) and Class C (flammable gases/electrical) fires.
- CO₂ extinguisher – used on electrical fires and Class B (flammable liquids); leaves no residue.
- Foam extinguisher – used on Class B fires involving fuel/oil; provides blanket smothering effect.
- Water extinguisher – used on Class A fires (solid combustible materials like wood, paper, cloth); not safe for electrical or oil fires.