
11/02/2025
CO2 system on a ship is primarily used as a fixed fire fighting system, designed to extinguish fires in enclosed spaces like engine rooms, cargo holds, and pump rooms by releasing a large amount of carbon dioxide which displaces oxygen, effectively suffocating the fire and preventing its spread; essentially acting as a "smothering" agent.
Key points about the CO2 system on a ship:
Function:
To rapidly suppress fires by releasing a concentrated cloud of CO2, depriving the fire of oxygen needed to sustain combustion.
Where it's used:
Primarily in engine rooms, cargo holds, and other confined spaces where other firefighting methods might be impractical.
Operation:
The system consists of large CO2 cylinders stored in a dedicated room, which release the gas through a network of pipes and nozzles when activated.
Safety considerations:
Before activating a CO2 system, the area must be completely evacuated as the released gas can displace breathable oxygen, making it dangerous to people inside.
Port State Control (PSC) inspects a ship's CO2 system because it is a critical safety feature on board, acting as a fixed fire extinguishing system, and any malfunction or deficiency could potentially lead to serious consequences in case of a fire, putting the crew and ship at risk; therefore, ensuring its proper functioning is a key aspect of maritime safety checks conducted by PSC inspectors.
Key points about CO2 system inspection during PSC:
Safety concern:
A faulty CO2 system could fail to extinguish a fire effectively, potentially causing significant damage and endangering lives on board.
Compliance with regulations:
International maritime regulations mandate that ships have properly maintained CO2 systems, which PSC inspectors verify during their inspections.
Potential hazards:
Inspectors check for issues like leaks, damaged pipes, malfunctioning release mechanisms, and inadequate ventilation in the CO2 storage room.
Maintenance records review:
PSCOs will review the ship's maintenance logs to ensure the CO2 system is regularly serviced and tested.