Transport Malta has issued Technical Notice SL.6 Rev.4 for Shipowners, Ship Operators, Managers, Masters, Owners’ Representatives, and Recognised Organisations
All fire protection systems and appliances shall always be in good order and available for immediate use while the ship is in service. If a fire protection system is under repair, suitable arrangements to satisfy the Recognised Organisation and Administration shall be made to ensure that safety is not diminished.
We summarise the key points of the notice below:
Key Maintenance and Inspection Requirements
1. Fire Detection & Alarm Systems
- Weekly: Check control panel indicators.
- Monthly: Test a sample of detectors and call points.
- Annually: Test all detection systems, inspect detectors, and check the emergency power supply.
2. Public Address & General Alarm Systems
- Weekly: Ensure proper functionality.
3. Fire Doors
- Weekly: Test control panel indicators.
- Quarterly: Test fire doors in vertical bulkheads.
- Annually: Test remote-controlled fire doors.
4. Ventilation Systems & Fire Dampers
- Quarterly: Test all fire dampers.
- Annually: Test dampers for remote operation, inspect ducts, and verify fire protection interconnections.
5. Fire Mains, Pumps, Hydrants, Hoses & Nozzles
- Monthly: Check hydrants, hoses, and fire pump fuel supply.
- Quarterly: Ensure shore connections are in working order.
- Annually: Inspect components, flow-test pumps, pressure-test hoses, and check nozzle conditions.
6. Firefighter’s Outfit & Breathing Apparatus (SCBA)
- Monthly: Ensure firefighting lockers are fully equipped.
- Weekly: Check SCBA pressure.
- Annually: Inspect SCBA systems, recharging quality, and face mask conditions.
- 5-Yearly: Hydrostatic testing of cylinders.
7. Emergency Escape Breathing Devices (EEBDs)
- Weekly: General check, including cylinder pressure.
- Annually: Maintenance per manufacturer’s instructions.
- Hydrostatic Testing: As per the manufacturer’s schedule.
8. Marine Portable Fire Extinguishers
- Monthly: Verify placement and condition.
- Annually: Service onboard or at a shore facility.
- 5-Yearly: Discharge test one extinguisher of each type.
- 10-Yearly: Hydrostatic pressure testing.
9. Fixed Fire Suppression Systems
- Foam Systems: Monthly and annual testing; foam sample testing every five years.
- Dry Chemical Powder Systems: Regular agitation, pressure tests, and hydrostatic testing every 10 years.
- Gas Suppression Systems (CO2 and Others): Annual inspections, biennial weight checks, and 10-year hydrostatic tests.
10. Medical Oxygen Cylinders
- Annually: Inspected onboard or by the manufacturer.
- Every 3 Years: Recharge and pressure testing of pipes.
- Every 5 Years: Hydrostatic pressure testing and servicing of regulators.
Be sure to read the full document which contains detailed flow charts of testing processes.
Vassallo Associates offers consultancy, surveying, and inspection services to the Maritime industry. Contact us today to discuss your requirements.