FIRE EXTINGUISHERS USED ON SHIPS

Fire extinguishers are essential first-response tools used to control and suppress different types of fires onboard ships. Each extinguisher is designed with a specific firefighting agent that targets certain classes of fire such as solid combustibles, flammable liquids, gases, metals, cooking oils, and even electrical sources. Onboard vessels, the correct selection and proper use of a fire extinguisher can prevent a small incident from escalating into a major emergency. Understanding the types, functions, and limitations of each extinguisher ensures safe and effective response by the crew. Types of Fire Extinguishers Dry Powder Fire Extinguisher This versatile extinguisher uses a fine powder that interrupts the chemical reaction of fire. It is considered an “all-rounder” because it can tackle multiple classes of fire, including flammable gases and electrical fires. Effective For: Class A, B, C, D, K/F, Electrical fires Best Use Onboard: Machinery spaces, engine rooms, areas with fuel, chemicals, and electrical equipment. Foam Fire Extinguisher Foam extinguishers work by forming a blanket over the burning surface, cooling the fire and preventing oxygen from reaching the fuel. Ideal for liquid-based fires. Effective For: Class A and B fires Best Use Onboard: Cargo areas, storerooms with paints/fuels, accommodation spaces. CO₂ (Carbon Dioxide) Fire Extinguisher This extinguisher releases high-pressure CO₂ gas that displaces oxygen, suffocating the fire without leaving any residue. Safe for electrical panels as it does not damage equipment. Effective For: Class B fires, Electrical fires Best Use Onboard: Control rooms, bridge equipment, engine control panels, electrical rooms. Water Fire Extinguisher Water extinguishers cool the burning material by reducing the temperature below ignition point. They are simple, effective, and environmentally friendly—but ONLY for solid combustible fires. Effective For: Class A fires Best Use Onboard: Storage areas with paper, wood, cloth, and other solid materials. Warning: Never use on electrical, fuel, or grease fires. Wet Chemical Fire Extinguisher This extinguisher is specifically designed to fight fires involving cooking oils and fats. It works by cooling and forming a chemical layer that prevents re-ignition making it vital for galley operations. Effective For: Class A and Class F/K fires Best Use Onboard: Ship galleys, cooking stations, and food preparation areas.

Lathe Machine Operations

Lathe Machine Operations Lathe machines are fundamental tools in machining and marine engineering, designed to shape metal components with precision and consistency. By rotating the workpiece against a stationary cutting tool, a lathe enables the production of cylindrical, conical, and threaded parts commonly used in ship machinery, propulsion systems, and industrial equipment. Common Lathe Operations Facing Facing is used to produce a flat, smooth surface at the end of a workpiece. This operation ensures accurate length and proper seating of components. Taper Turning Taper turning creates a gradual reduction or increase in diameter along the length of a component. This is essential for shafts, couplings, and alignment-critical parts. Contour Turning Contour turning allows complex and curved profiles to be machined, often required for custom marine parts and specialized fittings.

The Four Pillars of the International Maritime Organization (IMO)

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) establishes global standards to promote safety, protect the marine environment, ensure proper training of seafarers, and safeguard their welfare. These standards are anchored on four key conventions known as the 4 Pillars of IMO: 1. SOLAS – Safety of Life at Sea (1974) SOLAS is considered the most important international treaty concerning maritime safety. It sets the minimum standards for the construction, equipment, and operation of ships to ensure they are safe for both crew and passengers. This includes: • Fire protection systems • Life-saving appliances • Navigation and communication requirements • Emergency preparedness Its ultimate purpose is to prevent loss of lives at sea. 2. MARPOL – Marine Pollution (1973/1978) MARPOL addresses the prevention of pollution from ships. It regulates: • Oil and chemical spills • Sewage and garbage discharge • Air emissions from ships Its goal is to protect the marine and coastal environment by minimizing pollution from ship operations and accidents. 3. STCW – Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (1978) STCW sets global training and competency standards for seafarers working on commercial vessels. It ensures: • Seafarers are properly trained, qualified, and certified • Uniform watchkeeping and operational safety practices across the world This helps maintain a high level of professionalism and safety at sea. 4. MLC – Maritime Labour Convention (2006) The MLC is often called the “Seafarers’ Bill of Rights.” It ensures that seafarers have: • Fair wages and employment contracts • Safe working and living conditions • Adequate rest hours • Medical care, social protection, and welfare The convention promotes human rights and dignity for those working at sea.

Fuel Oil Properties

Fuel Oil Properties Fuel oil properties define the physical and chemical characteristics that determine how fuel behaves during storage, handling, combustion, and engine operation. In marine engineering, understanding these properties is essential to ensure safe operations, efficient fuel consumption, regulatory compliance, and long-term reliability of ship machinery. Purpose •The purpose of identifying and monitoring fuel oil properties is to: •Ensure safe storage, handling, and combustion of fuel •Protect engines and fuel systems from damage and excessive wear •Maintain optimal engine performance and efficiency •Comply with international environmental and emission regulations •Reduce operational risks such as fires, blockages, and corrosion