Safety Bulletin 22 - Aerosol fire suppression system - reminder of servicing requirements
Published 10 November 2021
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1. Summary of Issue
Following a recent incident on board a workboat where a fixed aerosol fire suppression system activated unintentionally and without warning or human input, it has become evident that the servicing requirements of these systems are not always being adhered to. This safety bulletin is being issued to reiterate the servicing requirements of these systems to all operators that have these systems installed.
2. Actions to Take
The user should carry out monthly inspections of the aerosol generator system installed. This should include looking out for obstructions of the discharge nozzles, extension/alteration of the protected enclosure, openings left unclosed that were not catered for during the design, and that the position and orientation of the aerosol generators remain in their original installed position. As the erroneous self-activation may occur even when the system is isolated (as it should be when the protected space is occupied) it is vital that the nozzle orientations and positions are as installed, and the exhaust streams do not cross any entrances or exits to the space. The space should be evacuated immediately in the event of any activation of the system and prior to intentional activation.
Fixed firefighting systems principally require to be serviced annually and in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and any conditions of approval. Where there is any variation to this - this needs to be clearly defined by the manufacturer and agreed by the Maritime and Coast Guard Agency (MCA). In the case of Port State Control inspections, or inspections of foreign vessels, any variation from the principle of annual servicing is to be clearly defined by the manufacturer and agreed by the Flag administration. Where external visual inspection shows that the condensed aerosol generator casing or the generator has been damaged it shall be replaced immediately. Inspections of condensed aerosol generators shall be undertaken by competent personnel and the results recorded on an inspection report. A completed copy of the inspection report shall be supplied to the owner and the records shall be retained by the owner/operator for the life of the condensed aerosol system.
3. Further Information
Any queries should be directed to the MCA at
Tel: +44 (0) 203 817200
Maritime and Coastguard Agency,
Bay 2/23,
Spring Place,
105 Commercial Road,
Southampton,
SO15 1EG.