Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/411 of 19 November 2019 amending Directive 2009/45/EC of the European Parliament and the Council on safety rules and standards for passenger ships, as regards the safety requirements for passenger ships engaged on domestic voyages (Text with EEA relevance)

• .5 Within the machinery spaces, emergency escape breathing devices shall be situated ready for use at easily visible places, which can be reached quickly and easily at any time in the event of fire. The location of emergency escape breathing devices shall take into account the layout of the machinery space and the number of persons normally working in the space.

• .6 Reference is made to the Guidelines for the performance, location, use and care of emergency escape breathing devices (EEBD) in IMO MSC/Circ.849.

• .7 The number and location of these devices shall be indicated in the fire control plan required in Regulation II-2/A/13.

6-1   Regulation II-2/B/6-1: Escape routes on ro-ro passenger ships (R 28-1)

.1   REQUIREMENTS APPLICABLE TO NEW CLASS B, C AND D AND EXISTING CLASS B RO-RO PASSENGER SHIPS

	.1.1	This paragraph applies to new class B, C and D and existing class B ro-ro passenger ships.
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	.1.2	Handrails or other handholds shall be provided in all corridors along the entire escape route, so that a firm handhold is available every step of the way, where possible, to the assembly stations and embarkation stations. Such handrails shall be provided on both sides of longitudinal corridors more than 1,8 metres in width and transverse corridors more than 1 metre in width. Particular attention shall be paid to the need to be able to cross lobbies, atriums and other large open spaces along escape routes. Handrails and other handholds shall be of such strength as to withstand a distributed horizontal load of 750 N/m applied in the direction of the centre of the corridor or space, and a distributed vertical load of 750 N/m applied in the downward direction. The two loads need not be applied simultaneously.
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	.1.3	Escape routes shall not be obstructed by furniture or other obstructions. With the exception of tables and chairs which may be cleared to provide open space, cabinets and other heavy furnishings in public spaces and along escape routes shall be secured in place to prevent shifting if the ship rolls or lists. Floor coverings shall also be secured in place. When the ship is underway, escape routes shall be kept clear of obstructions such as cleaning carts, bedding, luggage and boxes of goods.
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	.1.4	Escape routes shall be provided from every normally occupied space on the ship to an assembly station. These escape routes shall be arranged so as to provide the most direct route possible to the assembly station, and shall be marked with symbols related to life-saving appliances and arrangements, adopted by IMO by Resolution A.760(18) as amended.
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	.1.5	Where enclosed spaces adjoin an open deck, openings from the enclosed space to the open deck shall, where practicable, be capable of being used as an emergency exit.
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	.1.6	Decks shall be sequentially numbered, starting with ‘1’ at the tank top or lowest deck. These numbers shall be prominently displayed at stair landings and lift lobbies. Decks may also be named, but the deck number shall always be displayed with the name.
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	.1.7	Simple ‘mimic’ plans showing the ‘you are here’ position and escape routes marked by arrows shall be prominently displayed on the inside of each cabin door and in public spaces. The plan shall show the directions of escape, and shall be properly oriented in relation to its position on the ship.
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	.1.8	Cabin and stateroom doors shall not require keys to unlock them from inside the room. Neither shall there be any doors along any designed escape route which require keys to unlock them when moving in the direction of escape.

.2   REQUIREMENTS APPLICABLE TO NEW CLASS B, C AND D RO-RO PASSENGER SHIPS

	.2.1	The lowest 0,5 metres of bulkheads and other partitions forming vertical divisions along escape routes shall be able to sustain a load of 750 N/m to allow them to be used as walking surfaces from the side of the escape route with the ship at large angles of heel.
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	.2.2	The escape route from cabins to stairway enclosures shall be as direct as possible, with a minimum number of changes in direction. It shall not be necessary to cross from one side of the ship to the other to reach an escape route. It shall not be necessary to climb more than two decks up or down in order to reach an assembly station or open deck from any passenger space.
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	.2.3	External routes shall be provided from open decks, referred to in paragraph 2.2, to the survival craft embarkation stations.

.3   REQUIREMENTS APPLICABLE TO NEW CLASS B, C AND D RO-RO PASSENGER SHIPS CONSTRUCTED ON OR AFTER 1 JULY 1999

For new class B, C and D ro-ro passenger ships constructed on or after 1 July 1999, escape routes shall be evaluated by an evacuation analysis early in the design process. The analysis shall be used to identify and eliminate, as far as practicable, congestion which may develop during abandonment, due to normal movement of passengers and crew along escape routes, including the possibility that crew may need to move along these routes in a direction opposite the movement of the passengers. In addition, the analysis shall be used to demonstrate that escape arrangements are sufficiently flexible to provide for the possibility that certain escape routes, assembly stations, embarkation stations or survival craft may not be available as a result of a casualty.

7. Regulation II-2/B/7: Penetrations and openings in ‘A’ and ‘B’ class divisions (R 30, 31)

NEW CLASS B, C AND D AND EXISTING CLASS B SHIPS:

• .1 All openings in ‘A’ class divisions shall be provided with permanently attached means of closing which shall be as effective for resisting fires as the divisions in which they are fitted.

• .2 The construction of all doors and door frames in ‘A’ class divisions, with the means of securing them when closed, shall provide resistance to fire as well as to the passage of smoke and flame, as far as practicable, equivalent to that of the bulkheads in which the doors are situated. Such doors and doorframes shall be constructed of steel or other equivalent material. Watertight doors need not be insulated.

• .3 It shall be possible for each door to be opened and closed from each side of the bulkhead by one person only.

• .4 Fire doors in main vertical zone bulkheads and stairways enclosures other than power-operated sliding watertight doors and doors normally locked, shall satisfy the following requirements:

• .1 The doors shall be self-closing and be capable of closing with an angle of up to 3,5° opposing closure. The speed of closure shall, if necessary, be controlled so as to prevent undue danger to persons. In new ships the uniform rate of closure shall be no more than 0,2 m/s and no less than 0,1 m/s with the ship in the upright position.

NEW CLASS B, C AND D SHIPS:

• .2 Remote-controlled sliding or power-operated doors shall be equipped with an alarm that sounds at least 5 seconds but no more than 10 seconds before the door begins to move and continue sounding until the door is completely closed. Doors designed to re-open upon contacting an object in its path shall re-open sufficiently to allow a clear passage of at least 0,75 metres, but no more than 1 metre.

• .3 All doors, except fire doors which are normally kept closed, shall be capable of remote and automatic release from a continuously manned central control station, either simultaneously or in groups, and also individually from a position at both sides of the door. Indication must be provided at the fire control panel in the continuously manned central control station whether each of the remote-controlled doors is closed. The release mechanism shall be so designed that the door will automatically close in the event of disruption of the control system or central power supply. Release switches shall have an on-off function to prevent automatic resetting of the system. Holdback hooks not subject to central control station release are prohibited.

• .4 Local power accumulators for power-operated doors shall be provided in the immediate vicinity of the doors to enable the doors to be operated at least 10 times (fully opened and closed) using the local controls.

• .5 Double-leaf doors equipped with a latch necessary to their fire integrity shall have a latch that is automatically activated by the operation of the doors when released by the system.

• .6 Doors giving direct access to special category spaces which are power-operated and automatically closed need not be equipped with alarms and remote-release mechanisms required in subparagraphs.4.2 and.4.3.

CLASS B, C AND D SHIPS CONSTRUCTED ON OR AFTER 1 JANUARY 2003:

Instead of.4, the following paragraph.4a shall apply

• .4a Fire doors in main vertical zone bulkheads, galley boundaries and stairway enclosures other than power-operated watertight doors and those which are normally locked, shall satisfy the following requirements:

• .1 the doors shall be self-closing and be capable of closing against an angle of inclination of up to 3,5° opposing closure;

• .2 the approximate time of closure for hinged fire doors shall be no more than 40 seconds and no less than 10 seconds from the beginning of their movement with the ship in upright position. The approximate uniform rate of closure for sliding fire doors shall be of no more than 0,2 m/s and no less than 0,1 m/s with the ship in the upright position;

• .3 the doors shall be capable of remote release from the continuously manned central control station, either simultaneously or in groups and shall be capable of release also individually from a position at both sides of the door. Release switches shall have an on-off function to prevent automatic resetting of the system;

• .4 hold-back hooks not subject to central control station release are prohibited;

• .5 a door closed remotely from the central control station shall be capable of being reopened at both sides of the door by local control. After such local opening, the door shall automatically close again;

• .6 indication shall be provided at the fire door indicator panel in the continuously manned central control station whether each of the remote-released doors are closed;

• .7 the release mechanism shall be so designed that the door will automatically close in the event of disruption of the control system or main source of electric power;

• .8 local power accumulators for power-operated doors shall be provided in the immediate vicinity of the doors to enable the doors to be operated after disruption of the control system or main source of electric power at least 10 times (fully opened or closed) using the local controls;

• .9 disruption of the control system or main source of electric power at one door shall not impair the safe functioning of the other doors;

• .10 remote-released sliding or power-operated doors shall be equipped with an alarm that sounds for at least 5 seconds but no more than 10 seconds after the door is released from the central control station and before the door begins to move and continue sounding until the door is completely closed;

• .11 a door designed to re-open upon contacting an object in its path shall re-open not more than 1 metre from the point of contact;

• .12 double-leaf doors equipped with latch necessary to their fire integrity shall have a latch that is automatically activated by the operation of the doors when released by the control system;

• .13 doors giving direct access to special category spaces which are power-operated and automatically closed need not be equipped with the alarms and remote-release mechanisms required in paragraph.3 and.10;

• .14 the components of the local control system shall be accessible for maintenance and adjusting; and

• .15 power-operated doors shall be provided with a control system of an approved type which shall be able to operate in case of fire, this being determined in accordance with the Fire Test Procedure Code. This system shall satisfy the following requirements:

• .15.1 the control system shall be able to operate the door at a temperature of at least 200 °C for at least 60 minutes, served by the power supply;

• .15.2 the power supply for all other doors not subject to fire shall not be impaired, and;

• .15.3 at temperatures exceeding 200 °C the control system shall be automatically isolated from the power supply and shall be capable of keeping the door closed up to at least 945 °C.

NEW CLASS B, C AND D SHIPS:

• .5 The requirements for ‘A’ class integrity of the outer boundaries of a ship shall not apply to glass partitions, windows and sidescuttles, provided that there is no requirement for such boundaries to have ‘A’ class integrity in Regulation II-2/B/10. Similarly, the requirements for ‘A’ class integrity shall not apply to exterior doors in superstructures and deckhouses.

CLASS B, C AND D SHIPS CONSTRUCTED ON OR AFTER 1 JANUARY 2003:

Instead of.5, the following paragraph.5a shall apply:

• .5a The requirements for ‘A’ class integrity of the outer boundaries of a ship shall not apply to glass partitions, windows and sidescuttles, provided that there is no requirement for such boundaries to have a ‘A’ class integrity in Regulation II-2/B/10.

The requirements for ‘A’ class integrity of the outer boundaries of the ship shall not apply to exterior doors, except for those in superstructures and deckhouses facing life-saving appliances, embarkation and external assembly station areas, external stairs and open decks used for escape routes. Stairway enclosure doors need not meet this requirement.

NEW CLASS B, C AND D SHIPS:

• .6 Except for watertight doors, weathertight doors (semi-watertight doors), doors leading to the open deck and doors which need to be reasonably gastight, all ‘A’ class doors located in stairways, public spaces and main vertical zone bulkheads in escape routes shall be equipped with a self-closing hose port of material, construction and fire resistance which is equivalent to the door into which it is fitted, and shall be a 150 mm square clear opening with the door closed and shall be inset into the lower edge of the door, opposite to the door hinges or, in the case of sliding doors, nearest the opening.

NEW CLASS B, C AND D AND EXISTING CLASS B SHIPS:

• .7 Doors and door frames in ‘B’ class divisions and means of securing them shall provide a method of closure which shall have resistance to fire equivalent to that of the divisions except that ventilation openings may be permitted in the lower portion of such doors. Where such opening is in or under a door, the total net area of any such opening or openings shall not exceed 0,05 m2. Alternatively, a non-combustible air balance duct routed between the cabin and the corridor and located below the sanitary unit is permitted where the cross-sectional area of the duct does not exceed 0,05 m2. All ventilation openings shall be fitted with a grill made of non-combustible material. Doors shall be non-combustible.

• .7.1 For reasons of noise reduction, the Administration may approve, as an equivalent, doors with built-in ventilation sound-locks with openings at the bottom on one side of the door and at the top on the other side, on condition that the following provisions have been complied with:

• .1 The upper opening shall always face towards the corridor and shall be provided with a grating of non-combustible material and an automatically operating fire damper, which is activated at a temperature of about 70 °C.

• .2 The lower opening shall be provided with a grating made of a non-combustible material.

• .3 The doors shall be tested in accordance with Resolution A.754(18).

NEW CLASS B, C AND D SHIPS:

• .8 Cabin doors in ‘B’ class divisions shall be of a self-closing type. Hold-backs are not permitted.

NEW CLASS B, C AND D AND EXISTING CLASS B SHIPS:

• .9 The requirements for ‘B’ class integrity of the outer boundaries of a ship shall not apply to glass partitions, windows and sidescuttles. Similarly, the requirements for ‘B’ class integrity shall not apply to exterior doors in superstructures and deckhouses. For ships carrying not more than 36 passengers, the Administration of the flag State may permit the use of combustible materials in doors separating cabins from the individual interior sanitary spaces such as showers.

8. Regulation II-2/B/8: Protection of stairways and lifts in accommodation and service spaces (R 29)

NEW CLASS B, C AND D SHIPS:

• .1 All stairways shall be of steel frame construction, except where the Administration sanctions the use of other equivalent material, and shall be within enclosures formed of ‘A’ class divisions, with positive means of closure of all openings except that:

• .1 a stairway connecting only two decks need not be enclosed, provided the integrity of the deck is maintained by proper bulkheads or doors in one between-deck space. When a stairway is closed in one between-deck space, the stairway enclosure shall be protected in accordance with the tables for decks in Regulations II-2/B/4 and II-2/B/5;

• .2 stairways may be fitted in the open in a public space, provided they lie wholly within such public space.

NEW CLASS B, C AND D AND EXISTING CLASS B SHIPS:

• .2 Stairway enclosures shall have direct access with the corridors and be of a sufficient area to prevent congestion, having in view the number of persons likely to use them in an emergency.

NEW CLASS B, C AND D SHIPS: Within the perimeter of such stairway enclosures, only public toilets, lockers of non-combustible material providing storage for safety equipment and open information counters are permitted.

Only public spaces, corridors, public toilets, special category spaces, other escape stairways required by Regulation II-2/B/6.1.5 and external areas are permitted to have direct access to these stairway enclosures.

NEW CLASS B, C AND D AND EXISTING CLASS B SHIPS:

• .3 Lift trunks shall be so fitted as to prevent the passage of smoke and flame from one between-deck to another and shall be provided with means of closing so as to permit the control of draught and smoke.

9. Regulation II-2/B/9: Ventilation systems for ships built before 1 January 2018 (R 32)

.1   Ships carrying more than 36 passengers

NEW CLASS B, C AND D SHIPS:

• .1 The ventilation system shall, in addition to paragraph 1 in Regulation II/32 of the 1974 SOLAS Convention, as in force on 17 March 1998, also be in compliance with subparagraphs.2.2 to.2.6,.2.8 and.2.9 of this Regulation II-2/B/9:.

NEW CLASS B, C AND D AND EXISTING CLASS B SHIPS:

• .2 In general, the ventilation fans shall be so disposed that the ducts reaching the various spaces remain within the main vertical zone.

• .3 Where ventilation systems penetrate decks, precautions shall be taken, in addition to those relating to fire integrity of the deck required by Regulation II-2/A/12.1, to reduce the likelihood of smoke and hot gases passing from one between-deck space to another through the system. In addition to insulation requirements contained in this Regulation II-2/B/9, vertical ducts shall, if necessary, be insulated as required by the appropriate tables in Regulation II-2/B/4.

NEW CLASS B, C AND D SHIPS:

• .4 Ventilation ducts shall be constructed of the following materials:

• .1 ducts not less than 0,075 m2 in sectional area and all vertical ducts serving more than a single between-deck space shall be constructed of steel or other equivalent material;

• .2 ducts less than 0,075 m2 in sectional area other than vertical ducts referred to in subparagraph.1.4.1 shall be constructed of non-combustible materials. Where such ducts penetrate ‘A’ or ‘B’ class divisions due regard shall be given to ensuring the fire integrity of the division;

• .3 short lengths of duct, not in general exceeding 0,02 m2 in sectional area nor 2 metres in length, need not be non-combustible provided that all of the following conditions are met:

• .1 the duct is constructed of a material of low fire risk to the satisfaction of the Administration of the flag State;

• .2 the duct is used only at the terminal end of the ventilation system, and

• .3 the duct is not located closer than 600 mm measured along its length to a penetration of an ‘A’ or ‘B’ class division, including continuous ‘B’ class ceilings.

CLASS B, C AND D SHIPS CONSTRUCTED ON OR AFTER 1 JANUARY 2003:

instead of subparagraph.1 the following subparagraph.1a shall apply: .1a the duct shall be of a material which has low flame spread characteristics.

• .5 Stairway enclosures shall be ventilated and shall be served only by an independent fan and duct system which shall not serve any other spaces in the ventilation system.

NEW CLASS B, C AND D AND EXISTING CLASS B SHIPS:

• .6 All power ventilation, except machinery space and cargo space ventilation and any alternative system which may be required under subparagraph.2.6, shall be fitted with controls so grouped that all fans may be stopped from either of two separate positions which shall be situated as far apart as practicable. Controls provided for the power ventilation serving machinery spaces shall also be grouped so as to be operable from two positions, one of which shall be outside such spaces. Fans serving power ventilation systems to cargo spaces shall be capable of being stopped from a safe position outside such spaces.

NEW CLASS B, C AND D SHIPS:

• .7 Where public spaces span three or more open decks and contain combustibles such as furniture and enclosed spaces such as shops, offices and restaurants, the space shall be equipped with a smoke extraction system. The smoke extraction system shall be activated by the required smoke detection system and be capable of manual control. The fans shall be sized such that the entire volume within the space can be exhausted in 10 minutes or less.

• .8 Ventilation ducts shall be provided with suitably located hatches for inspection and cleaning, where reasonable and practicable.

• .9 Exhaust ducts from galley ranges in which grease or fat is likely to accumulate shall meet requirements of subparagraphs.2.3.2.1 and.2.3.2.2 and shall be fitted with:

• .1 a grease trap readily removable for cleaning unless an alternative approved grease removal system is fitted;

• .2 a fire damper located in the lower end of the duct which is automatically and remotely operated, and in addition a remotely operated fire damper located in the upper end of the duct;

• .3 a fixed means for extinguishing a fire within the duct;

• .4 remote control arrangements for shutting off the exhaust fans and supply fans, for operating the fire dampers mentioned in.2 and for operating the fire-extinguishing system, which shall be placed in a position close to the entrance to the galley. Where a multi-branch system is installed, means shall be provided to close all branches exhausting through the same main duct before an extinguishing medium is released into the system; and

• .5 suitably located hatches for inspection and cleaning.

.2   Ships carrying not more than 36 passengers

NEW CLASS B, C AND D SHIPS:

• .1 Ventilation ducts shall be of non-combustible material. Short ducts, however, not generally exceeding 2 metres in length and with a cross-section not exceeding 0,02 m2 need not be non-combustible, subject to the following conditions:

• .1 these ducts shall be of a material which, in the opinion of the Administration of the flag State, has a low fire risk;

• .2 they may only be used at the end of the ventilation device;

• .3 they shall not be situated less than 600 mm, measured along the duct, from an opening in an ‘A’ or ‘B’ class division, including continuous ‘B’ class ceilings.

CLASS B, C AND D SHIPS CONSTRUCTED ON OR AFTER 1 JANUARY 2003:

instead of subparagraph.1 the following subparagraph.1a shall apply: .1a these ducts shall be of a material which has low flame spread characteristics.

• .2a Where the ventilation ducts with a free-sectional area exceeding 0,02 m2 pass through class ‘A’ bulkheads or decks, the openings shall be lined with a steel sheet sleeve unless the ducts passing through the bulkheads or decks are of steel in the vicinity of passage through the deck or bulkhead and the ducts and sleeves shall comply in this part with the following:

• .1 The sleeves shall have a thickness of at least 3 mm and a length of at least 900 mm. When passing through bulkheads, this length shall be divided preferably into 450 mm on each side of the bulkhead. These ducts, or sleeves lining such ducts, shall be provided with fire insulation. The insulation shall have at least the same fire integrity as the bulkhead or deck through which the duct passes.

• .2 Ducts with a free cross-sectional area exceeding 0,075 m2 shall be fitted with fire dampers in addition to the requirements of subparagraph.2.2a.1. The fire damper shall operate automatically but shall also be capable of being closed manually from both sides of the bulkhead or deck. The damper shall be provided with an indicator which shows whether the damper is open or closed. Fire dampers are not required, however, where ducts pass through spaces surrounded by ‘A’ class divisions, without serving those spaces, provided those ducts have the same fire integrity as the divisions which they pierce. Fire dampers shall be easily accessible. In new class B, C and D ships constructed on or after 1 January 2003, where fire dampers are placed behind ceilings or linings, these ceilings or linings shall be provided with an inspection door on which a plate reporting the identification number of the fire damper is provided. The fire damper identification number shall also be placed on any remote controls required.

• .2b In new class B, C and D ships constructed on or after 1 January 2003, where a thin plated duct with a free cross-sectional area equal to or less than 0,02 m2 passes through ‘A’ class bulkheads or decks, the opening shall be lined with a steel sleeve having a thickness of at least 3 mm and a length of at least 200 mm, divided preferably into 100 mm on each side of the bulkhead or, in the case of the deck, wholly laid on the lower side of the decks pierced.

• .3 Ducts provided for the ventilation of machinery spaces, galleys, car deck spaces, ro-ro cargo spaces or special category spaces shall not pass through accommodation spaces, service spaces or control stations unless they comply with the conditions specified in subparagraphs.2.3.1.1 to.2.3.1.4 or.2.3.2.1 and.2.3.2.2:

• .1.1 the ducts are constructed of steel having a thickness of at least 3 mm and 5 mm for ducts the widths or diameters of which are up to and including 300 mm and 760 mm and over respectively and, in the case of such ducts, the widths or diameters of which are between 300 mm and 760 mm having a thickness to be obtained by interpolation;

• .1.2 the ducts are suitably supported and stiffened;

• .1.3 the ducts are fitted with automatic fire dampers close to the boundaries penetrated; and

• .1.4 the ducts are insulated to ‘A-60’ standard from the machinery spaces, galleys, car deck spaces, ro-ro cargo spaces or special category spaces to a point at least 5 metres beyond each fire damper;

or

• .2.1 the ducts are constructed of steel in accordance with paragraphs.2.3.1.1 and.2.3.1.2; and

• .2.2 the ducts are insulated to ‘A-60’ standard throughout the accommodation spaces, service spaces or control stations;

except that penetrations of main zone divisions shall also comply with the requirements of subparagraph.2.8.

In new class B, C and D ships constructed on or after 1 January 2003, the ventilation systems for machinery spaces of category A, vehicle spaces, ro-ro spaces, galleys, special category spaces and cargo spaces shall, in general, be separated from each other and from the ventilation systems serving other spaces. Except that the galley ventilation systems on passenger ships carrying not more than 36 passengers need not be completely separated, but may be served by separate ducts from a ventilation unit serving other spaces. In any case an automatic fire damper shall be fitted in the galley ventilation duct near the ventilation unit.

• .4 Ducts provided for ventilation to accommodation spaces, service spaces or control stations shall not pass through machinery spaces, galleys, car deck spaces, ro-ro cargo spaces or special category spaces unless they comply with the conditions specified in subparagraphs.2.4.1.1 to.2.4.1.3 or.2.4.2.1 and.2.4.2.2:

• .1.1 the ducts where they pass through a machinery space, galley, car deck space, ro-ro cargo space or special category space are constructed of steel in accordance with subparagraphs.2.3.1.1 and.2.3.1.2;

• .1.2 automatic fire dampers are fitted close to the boundaries penetrated; and

• .1.3 the integrity of the machinery space, galley, car deck space, ro-ro cargo space or special category space boundaries is maintained at the penetrations;

or

• .2.1 the ducts where they pass through a machinery space, galley, car deck space, ro-ro cargo space or special category space are constructed of steel in accordance with subparagraphs.2.3.1.1 and.2.3.1.2; and

• .2.2 the ducts are insulated to ‘A-60’ standard throughout the machinery space, galley, car deck space, ro-ro cargo space or special category space;

except that penetrations of main zone divisions shall also comply with the requirements of subparagraph.2.8.

• .5 Ventilation ducts with a free-sectional area exceeding 0,02 m2 passing through class ‘B’ bulkheads shall be lined with steel sheet sleeves of 900 mm in length divided preferably into 450 mm on each side of the bulkheads unless the duct is of steel for this length.

• .6 Such measures as are practicable shall be taken in respect of control stations outside machinery spaces in order to ensure that ventilation, visibility and freedom from smoke are maintained, so that in the event of fire the machinery and equipment contained therein may be supervised and continue to function effectively. Alternative and separate means of air supply shall be provided; air inlets of the two sources of supply shall be so disposed that the risk of both inlets drawing in smoke simultaneously is minimised. Such requirements need not apply to control stations situated on, and opening on to, an open deck, or where local closing arrangements would be equally effective.

• .7 Where they pass through accommodation spaces or spaces containing combustible materials, the exhaust ducts from galley ranges shall be constructed of ‘A’ class divisions. Each exhaust duct shall be fitted with:

• .1 a grease trap readily removable for cleaning;

• .2 a fire damper located in the lower end of the duct;

• .3 arrangements, operable from within the galley, for shutting off the exhaust fans; and

• .4 fixed means for extinguishing a fire within the duct.

• .8 Where it is necessary that a ventilation duct passes through a main vertical zone division, a fail-safe automatic closing fire damper shall be fitted adjacent to the division. The damper shall also be capable of being manually closed from each side of the division. The operating position shall be readily accessible and be marked in red light-reflecting colour. The duct between the division and the damper shall be of steel or other equivalent material and, if necessary, insulated to comply with the requirements of Regulation II-2/A/12, paragraph.1. The damper shall be fitted on at least one side of the division with a visible indicator showing whether the damper is in the open position.

NEW CLASS B, C AND D AND EXISTING CLASS B SHIPS:

• .9 The main inlets and outlets of all ventilation systems shall be capable of being closed from outside the spaces being ventilated.

NEW CLASS B, C AND D SHIPS:

• .10 Power ventilation of accommodation spaces, service spaces, cargo spaces, control stations and machinery spaces shall be capable of being stopped from an easily accessible position outside the space being served. This position should not be readily cut off in the event of a fire in the spaces served. The means provided for stopping the power ventilation of the machinery spaces shall be entirely separate from the means provided for stopping ventilation of other spaces.

.3   CLASS B, C AND D SHIPS CONSTRUCTED ON OR AFTER 1 JANUARY 2003:

The following arrangements shall be tested in accordance with the IMO Fire Test Procedures Code:

• .1 fire dampers including relevant means of operation; and

• .2 duct penetrations through ‘A’ class divisions. Where steel sleeves are directly joined to ventilation ducts by means of riveted or screwed flanges or by welding, the test is not required.

9a   Regulation II-2/B/9a: Ventilation systems in ships

CLASS B, C and D SHIPS constructed on or after 1 January 2018

.1   General

• .1 Ventilation ducts, including single and double wall ducts, shall be of steel or an equivalent material, except for flexible bellows of short length not exceeding 600 mm used for connecting fans to the ducting in air-conditioning rooms. Unless expressly provided otherwise in paragraph.1.6, any other material used in the construction of ducts, including insulation, shall also be non-combustible. However, short ducts, not exceeding 2 m in length and with a free cross-sectional area (The term free cross-sectional area means, even in the case of a pre-insulated duct, the area calculated on the basis of the inner dimensions of the duct itself and not the insulation) not exceeding 0.02 m2, need not be of steel or equivalent material, subject to the following conditions:

• .1 the ducts shall be made of non-combustible material which may be faced internally and externally with membranes having low flame-spread characteristics and, in each case, a calorific value not exceeding 45 MJ/m2 of their surface area for the thickness used. The calorific value shall be calculated in accordance with the recommendations published by the International Organization for Standardization, in particular publication ISO 1716:2002, ‘Reaction to the fire tests for building products – Determination of the heat of combustion’;

• .2 the ducts are only used at the end of the ventilation device; and

• .3 the ducts are not situated less than 600 mm, measured along the duct, from an opening in an ‘A’ or ‘B’ class division, including continuous ‘B’ class ceiling.

• .2 The following arrangements shall be tested in accordance with the Fire Test Procedures Code:

• .1 fire dampers, including their relevant means of operation, although the testing is not required for dampers located at the lower end of the duct in exhaust ducts for galley ranges, which must be of steel and capable of stopping the draught in the duct; and

• .2 duct penetrations through ‘A’ class divisions, although the testing is not required where steel sleeves are directly joined to ventilation ducts by means of riveted or screwed connections or by welding.

• .3 Fire dampers shall be easily accessible. Where they are placed behind ceilings or linings, those ceilings or linings shall be provided with an inspection hatch on which the identification number of the fire damper is marked. The fire damper identification number shall also be marked on any remote controls provided.

• .4 Ventilation ducts shall be provided with hatches for inspection and cleaning. The hatches shall be located near the fire dampers.

• .5 The main inlets and outlets of ventilation systems shall be capable of being closed from outside the spaces being ventilated. The means of closing shall be easily accessible as well as prominently and permanently marked and shall indicate the operating position of the closing device.

• .6 Combustible gaskets in flanged ventilation duct connections are not permitted within 600 mm of openings in ‘A’ or ‘B’ class divisions and in ducts required to be of ‘A’ class construction.

• .7 Ventilation openings or air balance ducts between two enclosed spaces shall not be provided except as permitted by Regulation II-2/B/7, paragraph.7.

.2   Arrangement of ducts

• .1 The ventilation systems for machinery spaces of category A, vehicle spaces, Ro-Ro spaces, galleys, special category spaces and cargo spaces shall be separated from each other and from the ventilation systems serving other spaces. However, the galley ventilation systems in passenger ships carrying not more than 36 passengers need not be completely separated from other ventilation systems, but may be served by separate ducts from a ventilation unit serving other spaces. In such a case, an automatic fire damper shall be fitted in the galley ventilation duct near the ventilation unit.

• .2 Ducts provided for the ventilation of machinery spaces of category A, galleys, vehicle spaces, Ro-Ro spaces or special category spaces shall not pass through accommodation spaces, service spaces, or control stations unless they comply with paragraph.2.4.

• .3 Ducts provided for the ventilation of accommodation spaces, service spaces or control stations shall not pass through machinery spaces of category A, galleys, vehicle spaces, Ro-Ro spaces or special category spaces unless they comply with paragraph.2.4.

• .4 As permitted by paragraphs.2.2 and.2.3 ducts shall be either:

• .1.1 constructed of steel having a thickness of at least 3 mm for ducts with a free cross-sectional area of less than 0.075 m², at least 4 mm for ducts with a free cross-sectional area of between 0.075 m² and 0.45 m², and at least 5 mm for ducts with a free cross-sectional area of over 0.45 m²;

• .1.2 suitably supported and stiffened;

• .1.3 fitted with automatic fire dampers close to the boundaries penetrated; and

• .1.4 insulated to ‘A-60’ class standard from the boundaries of the spaces they serve to a point at least 5 m beyond each fire damper;

or

• .2.1 constructed of steel in accordance with paragraphs.2.4.1.1 and.2.4.1.2; and

• .2.2 insulated to ‘A-60’ class standard throughout the spaces they pass through, except for ducts that pass through spaces of category (9) or (10) as defined in Regulation II-2/B/4, subparagraph.2.2.

• .5 For the purposes of subparagraphs.2.4.1.4 and.2.4.2.2, ducts shall be insulated over their entire cross-sectional external surface. Ducts that are outside but adjacent to the specified space, and share one or more surfaces with it, shall be considered to pass through the specified space and shall be insulated over the surface they share with the space for a distance of 450 mm past the duct (Sketches of such arrangements are contained in the Unified Interpretations of SOLAS chapter II-2 (MSC.1/Circ.1276)).

• .6 Where it is necessary that a ventilation duct passes through a main vertical zone division, an automatic fire damper shall be fitted adjacent to the division. The damper shall also be capable of being manually closed from each side of the division. The control location shall be readily accessible and be clearly and prominently marked. The duct between the division and the damper shall be constructed of steel in accordance with subparagraphs.2.4.1.1 and.2.4.1.2 and insulated to at least the same fire integrity as the division penetrated. The damper shall be fitted on at least one side of the division with a visible indicator showing the operating position of the damper.

.3   Details of fire dampers and duct penetrations

• .1 Ducts passing through ‘A’ class divisions shall meet the following requirements:

• .1 where a thin plated duct with a free cross sectional area equal to, or less than, 0.02 m² passes through ‘A’ class divisions, the opening shall be fitted with a steel sheet sleeve having a thickness of at least 3 mm and a length of at least 200 mm, divided preferably into 100 mm on each side of a bulkhead or, in the case of a deck, wholly laid on the lower side of the decks penetrated;

• .2 where ventilation ducts with a free cross-sectional area exceeding 0.02 m², but not more than 0.075 m², pass through ‘A’ class divisions, the openings shall be lined with steel sheet sleeves. The ducts and sleeves shall have a thickness of at least 3 mm and a length of at least 900 mm. When passing through bulkheads, this length shall be divided preferably into 450 mm on each side of the bulkhead. These ducts, or sleeves lining such ducts, shall be provided with fire insulation. The insulation shall have at least the same fire integrity as the division through which the duct passes; and

• .3 automatic fire dampers shall be fitted in all ducts with a free cross-sectional area exceeding 0.075 m² that pass through ‘A’ class divisions. Each damper shall be fitted close to the division penetrated and the duct between the damper and the division penetrated shall be constructed of steel in accordance with subparagraphs.2.4.2.1 and.2.4.2.2. The fire damper shall operate automatically, but shall also be capable of being closed manually from both sides of the division. The damper shall be fitted with a visible indicator which shows the operating position of the damper. Fire dampers are not required, however, where ducts pass through spaces surrounded by ‘A’ class divisions, without serving those spaces, provided those ducts have the same fire integrity as the divisions which they penetrate. A duct of cross-sectional area exceeding 0.075 m² shall not be divided into smaller ducts at the penetration of an "A" class division and then recombined into the original duct once through the division to avoid installing the damper required by this provision.

• .2 Ventilation ducts with a free cross-sectional area exceeding 0.02 m² passing through "B" class bulkheads shall be lined with steel sheet sleeves of 900 mm in length, divided preferably into 450 mm on each side of the bulkheads unless the duct is of steel for this length.

• .3 All fire dampers shall be capable of manual operation. The dampers shall have a direct mechanical means of release or, alternatively, be closed by electrical, hydraulic, or pneumatic operation. All dampers shall be manually operable from both sides of the division. Automatic fire dampers, including those capable of remote operation, shall have a failsafe mechanism that will close the damper in a fire even upon loss of electrical power or hydraulic or pneumatic pressure loss. Remotely operated fire dampers shall be capable of being reopened manually at the damper.

.4   Ventilation systems for passenger ships carrying more than 36 passengers

• .1 In addition to the requirements in paragraphs.1,.2 and.3, the ventilation system of a passenger ship carrying more than 36 passengers shall also meet the following requirements:

• .1 In general, the ventilation fans shall be so arranged that the ducts reaching the various spaces remain within a main vertical zone.

• .2 Stairway enclosures shall be served by an independent ventilation fan and duct system (exhaust and supply) which shall not serve any other spaces in the ventilation systems.

• .3 A duct, irrespective of its cross-section, serving more than one ‘tween-deck accommodation space, service space or control station, shall be fitted, near the penetration of each deck of such spaces, with an automatic smoke damper that shall also be capable of being closed manually from the protected deck above the damper. Where a fan serves more than one ‘tween-deck’ space through separate ducts within a main vertical zone, whereby each one is dedicated to a single ‘tween-deck space, each duct shall be provided with a manually operated smoke damper fitted close to the fan.

• .4 Vertical ducts shall, where necessary, be insulated as required by tables 4.1 and 4.2. Ducts shall be insulated as required for decks between the space they serve and the space being considered, as applicable.

.5   Exhaust ducts from galley ranges

• .1 Requirements for passenger ships carrying more than 36 passengers

• .1 In addition to the requirements in paragraphs.1,.2 and.3, exhaust ducts from galley ranges shall be constructed in accordance with paragraphs.2.4.2.1 and.2.4.2.2 and insulated to "A-60" class standard throughout accommodation spaces, service spaces, or control stations they pass through. They shall also be fitted with:

• .1 a grease trap readily removable for cleaning unless an alternative approved grease removal system is fitted;

• .2 a fire damper located in the lower end of the duct at the junction between the duct and the galley range hood which is automatically and remotely operated and, in addition, a remotely operated fire damper located in the upper end of the duct close to the outlet of the duct;

• .3 a fixed means for extinguishing a fire within the duct. The fire extinguishing systems shall comply with the recommendations published by the International Organization for Standardization, in particular publication ISO 15371:2009 "Ships and marine technology – Fire-extinguishing systems for protection of galley cooking equipment’;

• .4 remote-control arrangements for shutting off the exhaust fans and supply fans, for operating the fire dampers mentioned in paragraph.5.1.1.2 and for operating the fire-extinguishing system, which shall be placed in a position outside the galley close to the entrance to the galley. Where a multi-branch system is installed, a remote means located with the above controls shall be provided to close all branches exhausting through the same main duct before an extinguishing medium is released into the system; and

• .5 suitably located hatches for inspection and cleaning, including one provided close to the exhaust fan and one fitted in the lower end where grease accumulates.

• .2 Exhaust ducts from ranges for cooking equipment installed on open decks shall conform to paragraph.5.1.1, as applicable, when passing through accommodation spaces or spaces containing combustible materials.

• .2 Requirements for passenger ships carrying not more than 36 passengers

When passing through accommodation spaces or spaces containing combustible materials, the exhaust ducts from galley ranges shall be constructed in accordance with subparagraphs.2.4.1.1 and.2.4.1.2. Each exhaust duct shall be fitted with:

• .1 a grease trap readily removable for cleaning;

• .2 an automatically and remotely operated fire damper located in the lower end of the duct at the junction between the duct and the galley range hood and, in addition, a remotely operated fire damper in the upper end of the duct close to the outlet of the duct;

• .3 arrangements, operable from within the galley, for shutting off the exhaust and supply fans; and

• .4 fixed means for extinguishing a fire within the duct.

.6   Ventilation rooms serving machinery spaces of category A containing internal combustion machinery

• .1 Where a ventilation room serves only such an adjacent machinery space and there is no fire division between the ventilation room and the machinery space, the means for closing the ventilation duct or ducts serving the machinery space shall be located outside of the ventilation room and machinery space.

• .2 Where a ventilation room serves such a machinery space as well as other spaces and is separated from the machinery space by a "A-0" class division, including penetrations, the means for closing the ventilation duct or ducts for the machinery space can be located in the ventilation room.

.7   Ventilation systems for laundries in passenger ships carrying more than 36 passengers

Exhaust ducts from laundries and drying rooms of category (13) spaces as defined in Regulation II-2/B/4, subparagraph.2.2 shall be fitted with:

• .1 filters readily removable for cleaning purposes;

• .2 a fire damper located in the lower end of the duct which is automatically and remotely operated;

• .3 remote-control arrangements for shutting off the exhaust fans and supply fans from within the space and for operating the fire damper mentioned in subparagraph.7.2; and

• .4 suitably located hatches for inspection and cleaning.

10. Regulation II-2/B/10: Windows and sidescuttles (R 33)

NEW CLASS B, C AND D AND EXISTING CLASS B SHIPS:

• .1 All windows and sidescuttles in bulkheads within accommodation and service spaces and control stations other than those to which the provisions of Regulation II-2/B/7, paragraph.5 apply, shall be so constructed as to preserve the integrity requirements of the type of bulkheads in which they are fitted.

In new class B, C and D ships constructed on or after 1 January 2003 this being determined in accordance with the Fire Test Procedures Code.

• .2 Notwithstanding the requirements of the tables in Regulations II-2/B/4 and II-2/B/5, all windows and sidescuttles in bulkheads separating accommodation and service spaces and control stations from weather shall be constructed with frames of steel or other suitable material. The glass shall be retained by a metal glazing bead or angle.

NEW CLASS B, C AND D SHIPS CARRYING MORE THAN 36 PASSENGERS:

• .3 Windows facing life-saving appliances, embarkation and assembly areas, external stairs and open decks used for escape routes, and windows situated below life-raft and escape slide embarkation areas shall have the fire integrity as required in the tables of Regulation II-2/B/4. Where automatic dedicated sprinkler heads are provided for windows, ‘A-0’ windows may be accepted as equivalent

In new class B, C and D ships constructed on or after 1 January 2003, the automatic dedicated sprinkler heads must either be:

• .1 dedicated heads located above the windows and installed in addition to the conventional ceiling sprinklers; or

• .2 conventional ceiling sprinkler heads arranged such that the window is protected by an average application rate of at least 5 litres/m2 per minute and the additional window area is included in the calculation of the area of coverage.

Windows located in the ship’s side below the lifeboat embarkation areas shall have the fire integrity at least equal to ‘A-0’ class.

NEW CLASS B, C AND D SHIPS CARRYING NOT MORE THAN 36 PASSENGERS AND EXISTING CLASS B SHIPS:

• .4 Notwithstanding the requirements of the tables in Regulation II-2/B/5, special attention shall be given to the fire integrity of windows facing open or enclosed lifeboat and life-raft embarkation areas and to the fire integrity of windows situated below such areas in such a position that their failure during a fire would impeded the launching of, or embarkation into, lifeboats or life-rafts.

11. Regulation II-2/B/11: Restricted use of combustible material (R 34)

NEW CLASS B, C AND D SHIPS:

• .1 Except in cargo spaces, mail rooms, baggage rooms, or refrigerated compartments of service spaces, all linings, grounds, draught stops, ceilings, and insulations shall be of non-combustible materials. Partial bulkheads or decks used to subdivide a space for utility or artistic treatment shall also be of non-combustible material.

• .2 Vapour barriers and adhesives used in conjunction with insulation, as well as insulation of pipe fittings, for cold service systems need not be non-combustible, but they shall be kept to the minimum quantity practicable and their exposed surfaces shall have qualities of resistance to the propagation of flame in accordance with the test procedure of IMO Resolution A.653(16).

CLASS B, C AND D SHIPS CONSTRUCTED ON OR AFTER 1 JANUARY 2003:

Instead of.2 the following paragraph.2a shall apply: .2a Vapour barriers and adhesives used in conjunction with insulation, as well as insulation of pipe fittings for cold service systems need not be non-combustible, but they shall be kept to the minimum quantity practicable and their exposed surfaces shall have low flame spread characteristics.

• .3 The following surfaces shall have low flame-spread characteristics:

• .1 exposed surfaces in corridors and stairway enclosures, and of bulkheads, wall and ceiling linings in all accommodation and service spaces and control stations;

• .2 concealed or inaccessible spaces in accommodation, service spaces and control stations.

• .4 The total volume of combustible facings, mouldings, decorations and veneers in any accommodation and service space shall not exceed a volume equivalent to 2,5 mm veneer on the combined area of the walls and ceilings. Furniture fixed to linings, bulkheads or decks need not be included in the calculation of the total volume of combustible materials.

In the case of ships fitted with an automatic sprinkler system complying with the provisions of Regulation II-2/A/8, the above volume may include some combustible material used for erection of ‘C’ class divisions.

• .5 Veneers used on surfaces and linings covered by the requirements of paragraph.3 shall have a calorific value not exceeding 45 MJ/m2 of the area for the thickness used.

• .6 Furniture in stairway enclosures shall be limited to seating. It shall be fixed, limited to six seats on each deck in each stairway enclosure, be of restricted fire risk, and shall not restrict the passenger escape route. The Administration of the flag State may permit additional seating in the main reception area within a stairway enclosure if it is fixed, non-combustible and does not restrict the passenger escape route. Furniture shall not be permitted in passenger and crew corridors forming escape routes in cabin areas. In addition to the above, lockers of non-combustible material, providing storage for safety equipment required by the relevant Regulations, may be permitted. Drinking water dispensers and ice cube machines may be permitted in corridors provided they are fixed and do not restrict the width of the escape routes. This applies as well to decorative flower or plant arrangements, statues or other objects of art such as paintings and tapestries in corridors and stairways.

• .7 Paints, varnishes and other finishes used on exposed interior surfaces shall not be capable of producing excessive quantities of smoke and toxic products.

CLASS B, C AND D SHIPS CONSTRUCTED ON OR AFTER 1 JANUARY 2003:

Instead of.7 the following paragraph.7a. shall apply: .7a Paints, varnishes and other finishes used on exposed interior surfaces shall not be capable of producing excessive quantities of smoke and toxic products, this being determined in accordance with the IMO Fire Test Procedures Code.

• .8 Primary deck coverings, if applied within accommodation and service spaces and control stations, shall be of approved material which will not readily ignite, in accordance with the fire test procedures of IMO Resolution A.687(17) or give rise to toxic or explosive hazards at elevated temperatures.

CLASS B, C AND D SHIPS CONSTRUCTED ON OR AFTER 1 JANUARY 2003:

Instead of paragraph.8 the following paragraph.8a shall apply: .8a Primary deck coverings, if applied within accommodation and service spaces and control stations, shall be of an approved material which will not readily ignite or give rise to toxic or explosive hazards at elevated temperatures, this being determined in accordance with the IMO Fire Test Procedure Code.

12. Regulation II-2/B/12: Details of construction (R 35)

NEW CLASS B, C AND D AND EXISTING CLASS B SHIPS:

In accommodation and service spaces, control stations, corridors and stairways:

• .1 air spaces enclosed behind ceilings, panelling or linings shall be suitably divided by close-fitting draught stops placed not more than 14 metres apart;

• .2 in the vertical direction, such enclosed air spaces, including those behind linings of stairways, trunks, etc. shall be closed at each deck.

13. Regulation II-2/B/13: Fixed fire detection and fire alarm systems and automatic sprinkler, fire detection and fire alarm system (R 14) (R 36)

NEW CLASS B, C AND D SHIPS:

• .1 In ships carrying not more than 36 passengers there shall be installed throughout each separate zone, whether vertical or horizontal, in all accommodation and service spaces and in control stations, except spaces which afford no substantial fire risk such as void spaces, sanitary spaces, etc., either:

• .1 a fixed fire detection and fire alarm system of an approved type and complying with the requirements of Regulation II-2/A/9 and so installed and arranged as to detect the presence of fire in such spaces, however in new class B, C and D ships constructed on or after 1 January 2003 providing smoke detection in corridors, stairways and escape routes within accommodation spaces, or,

• .2 an automatic sprinkler, fire detection and fire alarm system of an approved type complying with the requirements of Regulation II-2/A/8 or with the IMO guidelines for an approved equivalent sprinkler system as given in IMO Resolution A.800(19) and so installed and arranged as to protect such spaces and, in addition, a fixed fire detection and fire alarm system of an approved type and complying with the requirements of Regulation II-2/A/9 and so installed and arranged as to provide smoke detection in corridors, stairways and escape routes within accommodation spaces.

• .2 Ships carrying more than 36 passengers shall be equipped with:

An automatic sprinkler, fire detection and fire alarm system of an approved type complying with the requirements of Regulation II-2/A/8 or with the IMO guidelines for an approved equivalent sprinkler system as given in IMO Resolution A.800(19), in all service spaces, control stations and accommodation spaces, including corridors and stairways.

Alternatively, control stations where water may cause damage to essential equipment may be fitted with an approved fixed fire-extinguishing system of another type.

A fixed fire detection and fire alarm system of an approved type, complying with the requirements of Regulation II-2/A/9 shall be installed, so installed and arranged as to provide smoke detection in service spaces, control stations and accommodation spaces, including corridors and stairways. Smoke detectors need not be fitted in private bathrooms and galleys.

Spaces having little or no fire risk such as voids, public toilets, carbon dioxide rooms and similar spaces need not be fitted with an automatic sprinkler system or fixed fire detection and alarm system.

• .3 In periodically unattended machinery spaces a fixed fire detection and fire alarm system of an approved type, in accordance with the relevant provisions of Regulation II-2/A/9, shall be installed.

This fire detection system shall be so designed and the detectors so positioned as to detect rapidly the onset of fire in any part of those spaces and under any normal conditions of operation of the machinery and variations of ventilation as required by the possible range of ambient temperatures. Except in spaces of restricted height and where their use is specially appropriate, detection systems using only thermal detectors shall not be permitted. The detection system shall initiate audible and visual alarms distinct in both respects from the alarms of any other system not indicating fire, in sufficient places to ensure that the alarms are heard and observed on the navigating bridge and by a responsible engineer officer.

When the navigating bridge is unmanned the alarm shall sound in a place where a responsible member of the crew is on duty.

After installation the system shall be tested under varying conditions of engine operation and ventilation.

CLASS B, C and D SHIPS CONSTRUCTED ON OR AFTER 1 JANUARY 2018

• .4 A fixed fire detection and fire alarm system of an approved type, in accordance with the relevant provisions of Regulation II-2/A/9, shall be installed in machinery spaces where:

• .4.1 the installation of automatic and remote control systems and equipment has been approved in lieu of continuous manning of the space; and

• .4.2 the main propulsion and associated machinery including sources of main source of electrical power are provided with various degrees of automatic or remote control and are under continuous manned supervision from a control room.

• .5 A fixed fire detection and fire alarm system of an approved type, in accordance with the relevant provisions of Regulation II-2/A/9, shall be installed in enclosed spaces containing incinerators.

• .6 With regard to the fixed fire detection and fire alarm system required by paragraphs.4 and.5 of Regulation II-2/B/13, the following shall apply:

The fire detection system shall be so designed and the detectors so positioned as to detect rapidly the onset of fire in any part of those spaces and under any normal conditions of operation of the machinery and variations of ventilation as required by the possible range of ambient temperatures. Except in spaces of restricted height and where their use is especially appropriate, detection systems using only thermal detectors shall not be permitted. The detection system shall initiate audible and visual alarms distinct in both respects from the alarms of any other system not indicating fire, in sufficient places to ensure that the alarms are heard and observed on the navigating bridge and by a responsible engineer officer.

When the navigating bridge is unmanned, the alarm shall sound in a place where a responsible member of the crew is on duty.

After installation, the system shall be tested under varying conditions of engine operation and ventilation.

14. Regulation II-2/B/14: Protection of special category spaces (R 37)

.1   Provisions applicable to special category spaces whether above or below the bulkhead deck

NEW CLASS B, C AND D SHIPS AND EXISTING CLASS B SHIPS CARRYING MORE THAN 36 PASSENGERS:

• .1 General

• .1 The basic principle underlying the provisions of this Regulation II-2/B/14 is that as normal main vertical zoning may not be practicable in special category spaces, equivalent protection must be obtained in such spaces on the basis of a horizontal zone concept and by the provision of an efficient fixed fire-extinguishing system. Under this concept, a horizontal zone for the purpose of this Regulation II-2/B/14 may include special category spaces on more than one deck provided that the total overall clear height for vehicles does not exceed 10 metres.

• .2 The requirements of Regulations II-2/A/12, II-2/B/7, II-2/B/9 and II-2/B/9a for maintaining the integrity of vertical zones shall be applied equally to decks and bulkheads forming the boundaries separating horizontal zones from each other and from the remainder of the ship.

• .2 Structural protection

• .1 In new ships carrying more than 36 passengers the boundary bulkheads and decks of special category spaces shall be insulated to ‘A-60’ class standard. However, where an open deck space (as defined in Regulation II-2/B/4, subparagraph.2.2(5)), a sanitary or similar space (as defined in Regulation II-2/B/4, subparagraph.2.2(9)) or a tank, void or auxiliary machinery space having little or no fire risk (as defined in Regulation II-2/B/4, subparagraph.2.2(10)), is on one side of the division the standard may be reduced to ‘A-0’.

Where fuel oil tanks are below a special category space, the integrity of the deck between such spaces may be reduced to ‘A-0’ standard.

• .2 In new ships built before 1 January 2018 carrying not more than 36 passengers and existing class B ships carrying more than 36 passengers, the boundary bulkheads of special category spaces shall be insulated as required for category (11) spaces in table 5.1 of Regulation II-2/B/5 and the horizontal boundaries as required for category (11) in table 5.2 of Regulation II-2/B/5. In ships built on or after 1 January 2018 carrying not more than 36 passengers, the boundary bulkheads of special category spaces shall be insulated as required for category (11) spaces in table 5.1a of Regulation II-2/B/5 and the horizontal boundaries as required for category (11) in table 5.2a of Regulation II-2/B/5.

• .3 Indicators shall be provided on the navigating bridge which shall indicate when any fire door leading to or from the special category spaces is closed.

Doors to special category spaces shall be of such a construction that they cannot be kept open permanently and shall be kept closed during the voyage.

• .3 Fixed fire-extinguishing system

Each special category space shall be fitted with an approved fixed pressure water-spraying system for manual operation which shall protect all parts of any deck and vehicle platform in such space.

In new class B, C and D ships constructed on or after 1 January 2003, such water spray systems shall have:

• .1 a pressure gauge on the valve manifold;

• .2 clear marking on each manifold valve indicating the spaces served;

• .3 instructions for maintenance and operation located in the valve room; and

• .4 a sufficient number of drainage valves.

The Administration of the flag State may permit the use of any other fixed fire-extinguishing system that has been shown, by full-scale test in conditions simulating a flowing petrol fire in a special category space, to be not less effective in controlling fires likely to occur in such a space. Such fixed pressure water-spraying system or other equivalent fire-extinguishing system shall comply with the provisions of IMO Resolution A.123(V) and the IMO MSC/Circ.1272 ‘Guidelines when approving alternative water-based fire-fighting systems for use in special category spaces’ shall be taken into consideration.

• .4 Patrols and detection

• .1 An efficient patrol system shall be maintained in special category spaces. In any such space in which the patrol is not maintained by a continuous fire watch at all times during the voyage, there shall be provided a fixed fire detection and fire alarm system of an approved type complying with the requirements of Regulation II-2/A/9. The fixed fire detection system shall be capable of rapidly detecting the onset of fire. The type and the spacing and location of detectors shall be determined taking into account the effects of ventilation and other relevant factors.

In new class B, C and D ships constructed on or after 1 January 2003, after being installed, the system shall be tested under normal ventilation conditions and shall give an overall response time to the satisfaction of the Administration of the flag State.

• .2 Manually operated call points shall be provided as necessary throughout the special category spaces and one shall be placed close to each exit from such spaces.

In new class B, C and D ships constructed on or after 1 January 2003, manually operated call points shall be spaced so that no part of the space is more than 20 metres from a manually operated call point.

• .5 Portable fire-extinguishing equipment

NEW CLASS B, C AND D CONSTRUCTED BEFORE 1 JANUARY 2003 AND EXISTING CLASS B SHIPS:

• .5a There shall be provided in each special category space:

• .1 at least three water fog applicators;

• .2 one portable foam applicator unit complying with the provisions of Regulation II-2/A/6, paragraph.2, provided that at least two such units are available in the ship for use in such spaces; and

• .3 at least one portable extinguisher located at each access to such spaces.

CLASS B, C, AND D SHIPS CONSTRUCTED ON OR AFTER 1 JANUARY 2003:

• .5b Portable extinguishers shall be provided at each deck level in each hold or compartment where vehicles are carried, spaced not more than 20 metres apart on both sides of the space. At least one portable fire extinguisher shall be located at each access to such space.

In addition, the following fire extinguishing appliances shall be provided in special category spaces:

• .1 at least three water-fog applicators; and

• .2 one portable foam applicator unit complying with the provisions of the Fire Safety Systems Code, provided that at least two such units are available in the ship for use in such ro-ro space.

NEW CLASS B, C AND D AND EXISTING CLASS B SHIPS:

• .6 Ventilation system

• .1 There shall be provided an effective power ventilation system for the special category spaces sufficient to give at least 10 air changes per hour. The system for such spaces shall be entirely separated from other ventilation systems and shall be operating at all times when vehicles are in such spaces. The number of air changes shall be increased at least to 20 during loading and unloading of vehicles.

Ventilation ducts serving special category spaces capable of being effectively sealed shall be separated for each such space. The system shall be capable of being controlled from a position outside such spaces.

• .2 The ventilation shall be such as to prevent air stratification and the formation of air pockets.

• .3 Means shall be provided to indicate on the navigating bridge any loss or reduction of the required ventilating capacity.

• .4 Arrangements shall be provided to permit a rapid shutdown and effective closure of the ventilation system in case of fire, taking into account the weather and sea conditions.

• .5 Ventilation ducts, including dampers, shall be made of steel and their arrangement shall be to the satisfaction of the Administration of the flag State.

In new class B, C and D ships constructed on or after 1 January 2003, ventilation ducts that pass through horizontal zones or machinery spaces shall be ‘A-60’ class steel ducts constructed in accordance with subparagraphs.2.3.1.1 and.2.3.1.2 of Regulation II-2/B/9.

.2   Additional provisions applicable only to special category spaces above the bulkhead deck

NEW CLASS B, C AND D SHIPS:

• .1.1 Scuppers

In view of the serious loss of stability which could arise due to large quantities of water accumulating on the deck or decks consequent on the operation of the fixed pressure water-spraying system, scuppers shall be fitted so as to ensure that such water is rapidly discharged directly overboard.

NEW CLASS B, C AND D AND EXISTING CLASS B RO-RO PASSENGER SHIPS:

• .1.2 Discharges