Canadian Flag Transport Canada / Transports Canada Government of Canada
Common menu bar (access key: M)
 Français  Contact Us  Help  Search  Canada Site
 Home  About us  Media room  Environment  Emergencies
 Air  Marine  Rail  Road  Major issues
Skip to specific page links (access key: 1)
Transport Canada
• Table of Contents
• Document Information
• Chapter I
• Chapter II
• Chapter III
• Chapter IV
• Chapter V
• Chapter VI


• Marine Safety Publications
• Marine Safety Home Page
Skip all menus (access key: 2)

PREVIOUS | TABLE OF CONTENTS | NEXT

CHAPTER IV - STRUCTURAL FIRE PROTECTION, FIRE DETECTION AND FIRE EXTINCTION

 19. STRUCTURAL FIRE PROTECTION ^

19.1 Vessels Constructed of Steel or Other Equivalent Material (100 Unberthed Passengers within Limited Voyages) ^

19.1.1 This section applies to vessels, constructed of steel or other equivalent material, carrying not more than 100 unberthed passengers within Limited Voyages.

19.1.2 Structure

  1. The hull, superstructure, structural bulkheads, decks and deckhouses shall be constructed of steel or other equivalent material.

  2. Boundaries of machinery spaces shall be gastight and constructed of steel or equivalent material.

  3. Boundaries of galleys, and storerooms containing flammable material shall be gastight and constructed of steel or other equivalent material.

  4. Where berthed accommodation is provided for the crew, the divisional bulkheads shall be constructed of steel or other equivalent material, or Class B-15 divisions.

  5. The wheelhouse shall be separated from the remainder of the ship by bulkheads and decks constructed of 'C' Class divisions.

  6. All openings in the bulkheads and decks referred to in paragraphs 19.1.2.(b), 19.1.2.(c), 19.1.2.(d) and 19.1.2.(e) shall, as far as is practicable prevent the passage of smoke and flame.

  7. Where any part of the structure is of aluminum alloy, the following additional requirements shall apply:
    1. the deckhead, boundary bulkheads, pillars and the hull structure in every machinery space, shall be insulated with a material that will provide structural integrity for at least 30 minutes;
    2. Structure in way of lifeboat and life raft, stowage, launching, muster, and embarkation areas, which may be exposed to fire shall be insulated with a material that will provide structural integrity for at least 30 minutes;
    3. the insulation material referred to in sub-paragraphs 19.1.2.(g).(i) and 19.1.2.(g).(ii) shall extend down to at least the light waterline;
    4. where in paragraphs 19.1.2.(b), 19.1.2.(c) and 19.1.2.(d), bulkheads and decks are to be constructed of steel or other equivalent material, aluminum alloy insulated with a material that will provide structural integrity for at least 30 minutes shall be considered equivalent to steel.

19.1.3 Restriction of Combustible Materials

  1. All insulation including pipe and duct lagging shall be of approved non-combustible materials.

  2. The use of polyurethane foam as insulation material is not permitted.

  3. Where linings and ceilings are fitted in accommodation spaces, their exposed surfaces shall have low flame spread characteristics.

  4. The surface of any insulation fitted to the interior surfaces of a machinery space shall be impervious to oil and oil vapours.

  5. Spaces containing flammable stores shall be situated so as to minimize the dangers to passengers and crew in the event of fire.

19.1.4 Means of Escape

  1. Stairways, ladders and doors shall be arranged to provide ready means of escape from all passenger and crew spaces, to lifesaving equipment embarkation stations, such that:
    1. except where it is considered impracticable,two means of escape including the main entrance shall be provided from each general area accessible to passengers and crew;
    2. where two means of escape are fitted, they shall be as remote from each other as possible to prevent one incident blocking both escapes;
    3. doors that give direct access into an accommodation space from a machinery space shall be gastight, constructed of steel or other equivalent material, and be of the self-closing type;
    4. there shall be no direct access from a machinery space to berthed crew accommodation.

  2. Any public space that has a deck area greater than 28 square metres shall have at least two exits and, where practicable, the exits shall have egress to different spaces so as to minimize the possibility that both exits could be blocked at the same time as a result of one incident.

  3. When in any public room, subdued lighting is used, the exits shall be clearly marked with illuminated signs, and any doors shall be constructed to open outwards.

  4. Vertical ladders and deck scuttles shall not generally be considered satisfactory as one of the means of escape, except that in areas occupied only by crew members, or where it is demonstrated that the installation of a stairway would be impractical, a vertical ladder may be used as a second means of escape.

19.1.5 Arrangement of Stairways

  1. For all stairways, the sum of the riser height and tread depth shall be at least 430mm and not more than 460mm, and all stairways, other than exterior stairways, having treads of less than 260mm in depth, shall have a nosing of not less than 25mm or such other means that shall provide additional depth on the tread.

  2. For all stairways, handrails shall be fitted on both sides of the stairs, the handrails shall have a height measured vertically above the tread of not less than 840mm and not more than 910mm.

  3. Except where it is considered impracticable, at the top and bottom of each flight of stairs there shall be a clear landing having an area at least equal to the square of the actual tread width.

  4. The clear width of doors to stairways shall be at least equal to the actual stair width.

  5. The width of all stairways and inclined ladders shall be 760mm minimum.

  6. Stairways and inclined ladders primarily for the use of passengers shall have a maximum angle of inclination from the horizontal of 45 degrees.

  7. Stairways and inclined ladders for the use of the crew only shall have a maximum angle of inclination from the horizontal of 55 degrees.

  8. If the distance between handrails is less than the width of the treads the minimum stair width shall be measured between the handrails.

19.1.6 Public Address System

  1. A public address system in accordance with TP 127E, "Ship Safety Electrical Standards" shall be fitted throughout all accommodation spaces.

19.1.7 Fire Detection and Alarm System

  1. Every vessel shall be fitted with a fire detection and alarm system in accordance with Part 20, Sections 20.1 to 20.4.

19.1.8 Location and Arrangement of Oil Fuel Tanks

  1. As far as is practicable, oil fuel tanks shall be located outside of machinery spaces and shall be constructed of steel or other equivalent material.

  2. Where oil fuel tanks constructed of aluminum alloy are located in a machinery space, or are located in, or adjacent to any space containing flammable material the exposed surfaces of the tanks shall be insulated with a material that will provide structural integrity for 30 minutes.

19.1.9 Ventilation Systems

  1. A ventilation duct serving an accommodation space, service space, or wheelhouse shall not pass through a machinery space.

  2. A ventilation duct serving a machinery space or galley which passes through an accommodation space, service space or wheelhouse shall be gastight and constructed of steel or aluminum alloy insulated with a material that will provide structural integrity for at least 30 minutes.

  3. An exhaust ventilation duct from a galley range shall be provided with a grease trap and be constructed of steel.

  4. Means shall be provided for closing the main inlets and outlets of ventilation systems from a position outside the spaces served by the systems.

19.2 Vessels Constructed of Wood (100 Unberthed Passengers within Limited Voyages) ^

19.2.1 This sub-section applies to vessels, of wood construction, carrying not more than 100 unberthed passengers within Limited Voyages.

19.2.2 Machinery Spaces

  1. Exposed wood surfaces including the hull, deckhead, boundary bulkheads, casings and uptake trunks, shall be coated with an approved fire retardant coating of the intumescent type.

  2. Machinery space boundaries shall as far as is practicable be gastight.

19.2.3 Other Spaces

  1. Galleys, and storerooms containing flammable material shall be separated from the remainder of the ship by bulkheads and decks constructed of B-15 Class or 'F' Class divisions.

  2. Where berthed accommodation is provided for the crew, the divisional bulkheads shall be constructed of B-15 or 'F' Class divisions.

  3. The wheelhouse shall be separated from the remainder of the ship by bulkheads and decks constructed of 'C' Class divisions.

  4. All openings in the bulkheads and decks referred to in paragraphs 19.2.3.(a), 19.2.3.(b) and 19.2.3.(c) shall, as far as is practicable prevent the passage of smoke and flame.

 19.2.4 Restriction of Combustible Materials

  1. All insulation including pipe and duct lagging shall be of approved non-combustible materials.

  2. The use of polyurethane foam as insulation material is not permitted.

  3. All exposed surfaces other than decks, in accommodation spaces, including linings and ceilings if fitted, shall have low flame spread characteristics.

  4. Spaces containing flammable material shall be situated so as to minimize the dangers to passengers and crew in the event of fire.

19.2.5 Means of Escape

  1. Stairways, ladders and doors, shall be arranged to provide ready means of escape from all passenger and crew spaces, to lifesaving equipment embarkation stations, such that:
    1. except where it is considered impracticable, two means of escape including the main entrance shall be provided from each general area accessible to passengers and crew;
    2. where two means of escape are fitted, they shall be as remote from each other as possible to prevent one incident blocking both escapes;
    3. doors that give direct access into an accommodation space from a machinery space shall be gastight, constructed of steel or equivalent material, and be of the self-closing type;
    4. there shall be no direct access from a machinery space to berthed crew accommodation.

  2. Any public space that has a deck area greater than 28 square metres shall have at least two exits and, where practicable, the exits shall have egress to different spaces so as to minimize the possibility that both exits could be blocked at the same time as a result of one incident.

  3. When in any public room, subdued lighting is used, the exits shall be clearly marked with illuminated signs, and any doors shall be constructed to open outwards.

  4. Vertical ladders and deck scuttles shall not generally be considered satisfactory as one of the means of escape, except that in areas occupied only by crew members, or where it is demonstrated that the installation of a stairway would be impractical, a vertical ladder may be used as a second means of escape.

19.2.6 Arrangement of Stairways

  1. For all stairways, the sum of the riser height and tread depth shall be at least 430mm and not more than 460mm, and all stairways, other than exterior stairways, having treads of less than 260mm in depth, shall have a nosing of not less than 25mm or such other means that shall provide additional depth on the tread.

  2. For all stairways, handrails shall be fitted on both sides of the stairs, the handrails shall have a height measured vertically above the tread of not less than 840mm and not more than 910mm.

  3. Except where it is considered impracticable, at the top and bottom of each flight of stairs there shall be a clear landing having an area at least equal to the square of the actual tread width.

  4. The clear width of doors to stairways shall be at least equal to the actual stair width.

  5. The width of all stairways and inclined ladders shall be 760mm minimum

  6. Stairways and inclined ladders primarily for the use of passengers shall have a maximum angle of inclination from the horizontal of 45 degrees.

  7. Stairways and inclined ladders for the use of the crew only shall have a maximum angle of inclination from the horizontal of 55 degrees.

  8. If the distance between handrails is less than the width of the treads the minimum stair width shall be measured between the handrails.

19.2.7 Public Address System

  1. A public address system in accordance with TP 127E, "Ship Safety Electrical Standards", shall be fitted throughout all accommodation spaces.


19.2.8 Fire Detection and Alarm System

  1. Every vessel shall be fitted with a fire detection and alarm system in accordance with Part 20, Sections 20.1 to 20.4.

19.2.9 Location and Arrangement of Oil Fuel Tanks

  1. As far as is practicable, oil fuel tanks shall be located outside of machinery spaces and shall be constructed of steel or other equivalent material.

  2. Where oil fuel tanks constructed of aluminum alloy are located in a machinery space, or are located in, or adjacent to any space containing flammable stores the exposed surfaces of the tanks shall be insulated with a material that will provide structural integrity for 30 minutes.

19.2.10 Ventilation Systems

  1. A ventilation duct serving an accommodation space, service space, or wheelhouse shall not pass through a machinery space;

  2. A ventilation duct serving a machinery space or galley which passes through an accommodation space, service space or wheelhouse shall be gastight and constructed of steel or aluminum alloy insulated with a material that will provide structural integrity for at least 30 minutes.

  3. An exhaust ventilation duct from a galley range shall be provided with a grease trap and be constructed of steel.

  4. Means shall be provided for closing the main inlets and outlets of ventilation systems from a position outside the spaces served by the systems.

19.3 Vessels Constructed of Fibre Reinforced Plastic (100 Unberthed Passengers within Limited Voyages ^

19.3.1 This sub-section applies to vessels, of fibre reinforced plastic construction, carrying not more than 100 unberthed passengers within Limited Voyages.

19.3.2 General

  1. The hull, superstructure, structural bulkheads and deckhouses when constructed of fiber reinforced plastic shall have a final layer of fire-retardant resin.

19.3.3 Machinery Spaces

  1. Exposed fiber reinforced plastic surfaces including the hull, deckhead, boundary bulkheads, casings and any trunks serving such spaces, shall be coated with an approved fire retardant coating of the intumescent type or be insulated with a material that will provide structural integrity for 30 minutes.

  2. Machinery space boundaries shall as far as is practicable be gastight.

19.3.4 Other Spaces

  1. Galleys, and storerooms containing flammable stores shall be separated from the remainder of the ship by bulkheads and decks constructed of B-15 Class or 'F' Class divisions.

  2. Where berthed accommodation is provided for the crew, the divisional bulkheads shall be constructed of B-15 or 'F' Class divisions.

  3. The wheelhouse shall be separated from the remainder of the ship by bulkheads and decks constructed of 'C' Class divisions.

  4. All openings in the bulkheads and decks referred to in paragraphs 19.3.4.(a), 19.3.4.(b) and 19.3.4.(c) shall, as far as is practicable prevent the passage of smoke and flame.

19.3.5 Restriction of Combustible Materials

  1. All insulation including pipe and duct lagging shall be of approved non-combustible materials.

  2. The use of polyurethane foam as insulation material is not permitted.

  3. All exposed surfaces in accommodation spaces other than decks, including linings and ceilings if fitted, shall have low flame spread characteristics.

  4. Spaces containing flammable stores shall be situated so as to minimize the dangers to passengers and crew in the event of fire.

19.3.6 Means of Escape

  1. Stairways, ladders and doors, shall be arranged to provide ready means of escape from all passenger and crew spaces, to lifesaving equipment embarkation stations, such that:
    1. except where it is considered impracticable,two means of escape including the main entrance shall be provided from each general area accessible to passengers and crew;
    2. where two means of escape are fitted, they shall be as remote from each other as possible to prevent one incident blocking both escapes;
    3. doors that give direct access into an accommodation space from a machinery space shall be gastight, constructed of steel or equivalent material, and be of the self-closing type;
    4. there shall be no direct access from a machinery space to berthed crew accommodation.

  2. Any public space that has a deck area greater than 28 square metres shall have at least two exits and, where practicable, the exits shall have egress to different spaces so as to minimize the possibility that both exits could be blocked at the same time as a result of one incident.

  3. When in any public room, subdued lighting is used, the exits shall be clearly marked with illuminated signs, and any doors shall be constructed to open outwards.

  4. Vertical ladders and deck scuttles shall not generally be considered satisfactory as one of the means of escape, except that in areas occupied only by crew members, or where it is demonstrated that the installation of a stairway would be impractical, a vertical ladder may be used as a second means of escape.

19.3.7 Arrangement of Stairways

  1. For all stairways, the sum of the riser height and tread depth shall be at least 430mm and not more than 460mm, and all stairways, other than exterior stairways, having treads of less than 260mm in depth, shall have a nosing of not less than 25mm or such other means that shall provide additional depth on the tread.

  2. For all stairways, handrails shall be fitted on both sides of the stairs, the handrails shall have a height measured vertically above the tread of not less than 840mm and not more than 910mm.

  3. Except where it is considered impracticable, at the top and bottom of each flight of stairs there shall be a clear landing having an area at least equal to the square of the actual tread width.

  4. The clear width of doors to stairways shall be at least equal to the actual stair width.

  5. The width of all stairways and inclined ladders shall be 760mm minimum.

  6. Stairways and inclined ladders primarily for the use of passengers shall have a maximum angle of inclination from the horizontal of 45 degrees.

  7. Stairways and inclined ladders for the use of the crew only shall have a maximum angle of inclination from the horizontal of 55 degrees.

  8. If the distance between handrails is less than the width of the treads the minimum stair width shall be measured between the handrails.

19.3.8 Public Address System

  1. A public address system in accordance with TP 127E, "Ship Safety Electrical Standards", shall be fitted throughout all accommodation spaces.

19.3.9 Fire Detection and Alarm System

  1. Every vessel shall be fitted with a fire detection and alarm system in accordance with Part 20, Sections 20.1 to 20.4.

19.3.10 Location and Arrangement of Oil Fuel Tanks

  1. As far as is practicable, oil fuel tanks shall be located outside of machinery spaces and be constructed of steel or other equivalent material.

  2. Where oil fuel tanks constructed of aluminum alloy are located in a machinery space, or are located in, or adjacent to any space containing flammable material, the exposed surfaces of the tanks shall be insulated with a material that will provide structural integrity for 30 minutes.

  3. Oil fuel tanks constructed of fiber reinforced plastic, integral with the hull, shall have a final layer of fire retardant resin and the exposed surfaces of the tanks insulated with a material that will provide structural integrity for 30 minutes.

19.3.11 Ventilation Systems

  1. A ventilation duct serving an accommodation space, service space, or wheelhouse shall not pass through a machinery space.

  2. A ventilation duct serving a machinery space or galley which passes through an accommodation space, service space or wheelhouse shall be gastight and constructed of steel or aluminum alloy insulated with a material that will provide structural integrity for at least 30 minutes.

  3. If the ventilation duct serving the machinery space is an integral part of the structure the internal surfaces shall be coated with an approved fire retardant coating of the intumescent type or be insulated with a material that will provide structural integrity for 30 minutes.

  4. An exhaust ventilation duct from a galley range shall be provided with a grease trap and be constructed of steel.

  5. Means shall be provided for closing the main inlets and outlets of ventilation systems from a position outside the spaces served by the systems.

19.4 Vessels Constructed of Steel or Other Equivalent Material (100 Unberthed Passengers on HT III or IW II Voyages) ^

19.4.1 This sub-section applies to vessels, constructed of steel or other equivalent material, carrying not more than 100 unberthed passengers on voyages not more exposed than Home Trade Class III or Inland Waters Class II.

19.4.2 Structure

  1. The hull, superstructure, structural bulkheads, decks and deckhouses shall be constructed of steel or other equivalent material.

  2. Boundaries of machinery spaces shall be gastight and constructed of steel or other equivalent material.

  3. Boundaries of galleys, and storerooms containing flammable materials shall be gastight and constructed of steel or equivalent material.

  4. Where berthed accommodation is provided for the crew, the divisional bulkheads shall be constructed of steel or other equivalent material, or Class B-15 divisions.

  5. The wheelhouse shall be separated from the remainder of the ship by bulkheads and decks constructed of steel or equivalent material.

  6. Where any part of the structure is of aluminum alloy, the following additional requirements shall apply:
    1. the deckhead, boundary bulkheads, pillars and the hull structure in every machinery space, shall be insulated with a material that will provide structural integrity for at least 30 minutes;
    2. structure in way of lifeboat and life raft, stowage launching, muster, and embarkation areas, which may be exposed to fire shall be insulated with a material that will provide structural integrity for at least 30 minutes;
    3. the insulation material referred to in sub-paragraphs 19.4.2.(f).(i) and 19.4.2.(f).(ii) shall extend down to the light waterline.
    4. where in paragraphs 19.4.2.(b), 19.4.2.(c), 19.4.2.(d) and 19.4.2.(e), bulkheads and decks are to be constructed of steel or other equivalent material, aluminum alloy insulated with a material that will provide structural integrity for at least 30 minutes shall be considered equivalent to steel.

19.4.3 Restriction of Combustible Materials

  1. All insulation including pipe and duct lagging shall be of approved non-combustible materials.

  2. The use of polyurethane foam as insulation material is not permitted.

  3. All linings and ceilings shall be of non-combustible materials.

  4. The exposed surfaces of linings and ceilings in accommodation spaces shall have low flame spread characteristics.

  5. The surface of any insulation fitted to the interior surfaces of a machinery space shall be impervious to oil and oil vapours.

  6. Spaces containing flammable material shall be situated so as to minimize the dangers to passengers and crew in the event of a fire.

19.4.4 Means of Escape

  1. Stairways, ladders and doors, shall be arranged to provide ready means of escape from all passenger and crew spaces, to lifesaving equipment embarkation stations, such that:
    1. except where it is considered impracticable, two means of escape including the main entrance shall be provided from each general area accessible to passengers, crew accommodation and crew working areas;
    2. where two means of escape are fitted, they shall be as remote from each other as possible to prevent one incident blocking both escapes;
    3. doors that give direct access into an accommodation space from a machinery space shall be gastight, constructed of steel or equivalent material, and be of the self-closing type;
    4. there shall be no direct access from a machinery space to berthed crew accommodation.

  2. Any public space that has a deck area greater than 28 square meters shall have at least two exits and, where practicable, the exits shall have egress to different spaces so as to minimize the possibility that both exits could be blocked at the same time as a result of one incident.

  3. When in any public room, subdued lighting is used, the exits shall be clearly marked with illuminated signs, and any doors shall be constructed to open outwards.

  4. Vertical ladders and deck scuttles shall not generally be considered satisfactory as one of the means of escape, except that in areas occupied only by crew members, or where it is demonstrated that the installation of a stairway would be impractical, a vertical ladder may be used as a second means of escape.

19.4.5 Arrangement of Stairways

  1. For all stairways, the sum of the riser height and tread depth shall be at least 430mm and not more than 460mm, and all stairways, other than exterior stairways, having treads of less than 260mm in depth, shall have a nosing of not less than 25mm or such other means that shall provide additional depth on the tread.

  2. For all stairways, handrails shall be fitted on both sides of the stairs, the handrails shall have a height measured vertically above the tread of not less than 840mm and not more than 910mm.

  3. Except where it is considered impracticable, at the top and bottom of each flight of stairs there shall be a clear landing having an area at least equal to the square of the actual tread width.

  4. The clear width of doors to stairways shall be at least equal to the actual stair width.

  5. The width of all stairways and inclined ladders shall be 760mm minimum.

  6. Stairways and inclined ladders primarily for the use of passengers shall have a maximum angle of inclination from the horizontal of 45 degrees.

  7. Stairways and inclined ladders for the use of the crew only shall have a maximum angle of inclination from the horizontal of 55 degrees.

  8. If the distance between handrails is less than the width of the treads the minimum stair width shall be measured between the handrails.

19.4.6 Public Address System

  1. A public address system in accordance with TP 127E, "Ship Safety Electrical Standards", shall be fitted throughout all accommodation spaces.

19.4.7 Location and Arrangement of Oil Fuel Tanks

  1. As far as is practicable, oil fuel tanks shall be located outside of machinery spaces and shall be constructed of steel or other equivalent material.

  2. Where oil fuel tanks constructed of aluminum alloy are located in a machinery space, or are located in, or adjacent to any space containing flammable material the exposed surfaces of the tanks shall be insulated with a material that will provide structural integrity for 30 minutes.

19.4.8 Fire Detection and Alarm System

  1. Every vessel shall be fitted with a fire detection and alarm system in accordance with Part 20, Sections 20.1 to 20.4.

19.4.9 Ventilation Systems

  1. A ventilation duct serving an accommodation space, service space, or wheelhouse shall not pass through a machinery space;

  2. A ventilation duct serving a machinery space or galley which passes through an accommodation space, service space or wheelhouse shall be gastight and constructed of steel or aluminum alloy insulated with a material that will provide structural integrity for at least 30 minutes.

  3. An exhaust ventilation duct from a galley range shall be provided with a grease trap and be constructed of steel;

  4. Means shall be provided for closing the main inlets and outlets of ventilation systems from a position outside the spaces served by the systems.

19.5 Vessels Constructed of Fiber Reinforced Plastic (100 Unberthed Passengers on HT III or IW II Voyages) ^

19.5.1 This section applies to vessels of fibre reinforced plastic construction, carrying not more than 100 unberthed passengers on voyages not more exposed than Home Trade Class III or Inland Waters Class II.

19.5.2 General

  1. The hull, superstructure, structural bulkheads and deckhouses when constructed of fibre reinforced plastic shall have a final layer of fire-retardant resin.

19.5.3 Machinery Spaces

  1. Exposed fiber reinforced plastic surfaces including the hull, deckhead, boundary bulkheads, casings and any trunks servicing such a space, shall be coated with an approved fire retardant coating of the intumescent type or be insulated with a material that will provide structural integrity for 30 minutes.

  2. Machinery space boundaries shall as far as is practicable be gastight.

19.5.4 Other Spaces

  1. Galleys, and storerooms containing flammable stores shall be separated from the remainder of the ship by bulkheads and decks constructed of B-15 Class or 'F' Class divisions.

  2. Where berthed accommodation is provided for the crew, the divisional bulkheads shall be constructed of B-15 or 'F' Class divisions.

  3. The wheelhouse shall be separated from the remainder of the ship by bulkheads and decks constructed of B-15 or 'F' Class divisions.

  4. All openings in the bulkheads and decks referred to in paragraphs 19.5.4.(a), 19.5.4.(b) and 19.5.4.(c) shall, as far as is practicable prevent the passage of smoke and flame.

19.5.5 Restriction of Combustible Materials

  1. All insulation including pipe and duct lagging shall be of approved non-combustible materials.

  2. The use of polyurethane foam as insulation material is not permitted.

  3. All linings and ceilings shall be of non-combustible materials.

  4. All exposed surfaces in accommodation spaces other than decks, including linings and ceilings if fitted, shall have low flame spread characteristics.

  5. Spaces containing flammable stores shall be situated so as to minimize the dangers to passengers and crew in the event of fire.

19.5.6 Means of Escape

  1. Stairways, ladders and doors, shall be arranged to provide ready means of escape from all passenger and crew spaces, to lifesaving equipment embarkation stations, such that:
    1. except where it is considered impracticable,two means of escape including the main entrance shall be provided from each general area accessible to passengers and crew, crew accommodation and crew working areas;
    2. where two means of escape are fitted, they shall be as remote from each other as possible to prevent one incident blocking both escapes;
    3. doors that give direct access into an accommodation space from a machinery space shall be gastight, constructed of steel or equivalent material, gas-tight construction, and be of the self-closing type;
    4. there shall be no direct access from a machinery space to berthed crew accommodation.

  2. Any public space that has a deck area greater than 28 square metres shall have at least two exits and, where practicable, the exits shall have egress to different spaces so as to minimize the possibility that both exits could be blocked at the same time as a result of one incident.

  3. When in any public room, subdued lighting is used, the exits shall be clearly marked with illuminated signs, and any doors shall be constructed to open outwards.

  4. Vertical ladders and deck scuttles shall not generally be considered satisfactory as one of the means of escape, except that in areas occupied only by crew members, or where it is demonstrated that the installation of a stairway would be impractical, a vertical ladder may be used as a second means of escape.

19.5.7 Arrangement of Stairways

  1. For all stairways, the sum of the riser height and tread depth shall be at least 430mm and not more than 460mm, and all stairways, other than exterior stairways, having treads of less than 260mm in depth, shall have a nosing of not less than 25mm or such other means that shall provide additional depth on the tread.

  2. For all stairways, handrails shall be fitted on both sides of the stairs, the handrails shall have a height measured vertically above the tread of not less than 840mm and not more than 910mm.

  3. Except where it is considered impracticable, for all stairways, at the top and bottom of each flight of stairs there shall be a clear landing having an area at least equal to the square of the actual tread width.

  4. The clear width of doors to stairways shall be at least equal to the actual stair width.

  5. The width of all stairways and inclined ladders shall be 760mm minimum.

  6. Stairways and inclined ladders primarily for the use of passengers shall have a maximum angle of inclination from the horizontal of 45 degrees.

  7. Stairways and inclined ladders for the use of the crew only shall have a maximum angle of inclination from the horizontal of 55 degrees.

  8. If the distance between handrails is less than the width of the treads the minimum stair width shall be measured between the handrails.

19.5.8 Public Address System

  1. A public address system in accordance with TP 127E, "Ship Safety Electrical Standards", shall be fitted throughout all accommodation spaces.

19.5.9 Fire Detection and Alarm System

  1. Every vessel shall be fitted with a fire detection and alarm accordance with Part 20, Sections 20.1 to 20.4. Where berthed accommodation is provided for the crew a fixed automatic system to detect an abnormal concentration of smoke in accordance with TP 127E, "Ship Safety Electrical Standards", shall be fitted throughout the accommodation spaces.

19.5.10 Location and Arrangement of Oil Fuel Tanks

  1. As far as is practicable, oil fuel tanks shall be located outside of machinery spaces and be constructed of steel or other equivalent material.

  2. Where oil fuel tanks constructed of aluminum alloy are located in a machinery space, or are located in, or adjacent to any space containing flammable material, stores the exposed surfaces of the tanks shall be insulated with a material that will provide structural integrity for 30 minutes.

  3. Oil fuel tanks constructed of fiber reinforced plastic, integral with the hull, shall have a final layer of fire retardant resin and the exposed surfaces of the tanks insulated with a material that will provide structural integrity for 30 minutes.

19.5.11 Ventilation Systems

  1. A ventilation duct serving an accommodation space, service space, or wheelhouse shall not pass through a machinery space.

  2. A ventilation duct serving a machinery space or galley which passes through an accommodation space, service space or wheelhouse shall be gastight and constructed of steel or aluminum alloy insulated with a material that will provide structural integrity for at least 30 minutes.

  3. If the ventilation duct serving the machinery space is an integral part of the structure the internal surfaces shall be coated with an approved fire retardant coating of the intumescent type or be insulated with a material that will provide structural integrity for 30 minutes.

  4. An exhaust ventilation duct from a galley range shall be provided with a grease trap and be constructed of steel.

  5. Means shall be provided for closing the main inlets and outlets of ventilation systems from a position outside the spaces served by the systems.

19.6 Vessels Constructed of Steel or Other Equivalent Material (25 Berthed Passengers on HT III or IW II Voyages) ^

19.6.1 This sub-section applies to vessels, constructed of steel or other equivalent material, carrying not more than 25 berthed passengers on voyages not more exposed than Home Trade Class III or Inland Waters Class II.

19.6.2 Structure

  1. The hull, superstructure, structural bulkheads, decks and deckhouses shall be constructed of steel or other equivalent material.

  2. Machinery spaces shall be separated from the remainder of the ship by Class A-30 bulkheads and decks.

  3. Boundaries of galleys, and storerooms containing flammable material shall be gastight and constructed of steel or other equivalent material.

  4. The wheelhouse shall be separated from the remainder of the ship by bulkheads and decks constructed of steel or other equivalent material.

  5. Divisional bulkheads including corridor bulkheads, in sleeping accommodation provided for passengers and crew, shall be constructed of steel or other equivalent material, or Class B-15 divisions.

  6. Where any part of the structure is of aluminum alloy, the following additional requirements shall apply:
    1. the deckhead, boundary bulkheads, pillars and the hull structure in every machinery space, shall be insulated with a material that will provide structural integrity for at least 30 minutes.
    2. structure in way of lifeboat and liferaft, stowage launching, muster, and embarkation areas, which may be exposed to fire shall be insulated with a material that will provide structural integrity for at least 30 minutes.
    3. the insulation material referred to in sub-paragraphs 19.6.2.(f).(i) and 19.6.2.(f).(ii) shall extend down to the light waterline;
    4. where in paragraphs 19.6.2.(b), 19.6.2.(c), 19.6.2.(d) and 19.6.2.(e), bulkheads and decks are to be constructed of steel or other equivalent material, aluminum alloy insulated with a material that will provide structural integrity for at least 30 minutes shall be considered equivalent to steel.

19.6.3 Restriction of Combustible Materials

  1. All insulation including pipe and duct lagging shall be of approved non-combustible materials.

  2. The use of polyurethane foam as insulation material is not permitted.

  3. All linings and ceilings shall be of non-combustible materials.

  4. The exposed surfaces of linings and ceilings in accommodation spaces shall have low flame spread characteristics.

  5. The surface of any insulation fitted to the interior surfaces of machinery spaces shall be impervious to oil and oil vapours.

  6. All primary deck coverings in accommodation spaces, service spaces and wheelhouse shall be of a type that is not readily ignitable.

  7. Spaces containing flammable stores shall be situated so as to minimize the dangers to passengers and crew in the event of fire.

19.6.4 Means of Escape

  1. Stairways, ladders, corridors, and doors, shall be arranged to provide ready means of escape to lifesaving equipment embarkation stations, from all passenger and crew spaces, such that:
    1. except where considered impracticable,two means of escape including the main entrance shall be provided from each general area accessible to passengers, crew accommodation and crew working areas;
    2. where two means of escape are fitted, they shall be as remote from each other as possible to prevent one incident blocking both escapes;
    3. doors that give direct access into an accommodation space from a machinery space shall be of steel gas-tight construction, and be of the self-closing type;
    4. there shall be no direct access from a machinery space to berthed accommodation.

  2. Any public space that has a deck area greater than 28 square metres shall have at least two exits and, where practicable, the exits shall have egress to different spaces so as to minimize the possibility that both exits could be blocked at the same time as a result of one incident.

  3. When in any public room, subdued lighting is used, the exits shall be clearly marked with illuminated signs, and any doors shall be constructed to open outwards.

  4. Vertical ladders and deck scuttles shall not generally be considered satisfactory as one of the means of escape, except that in areas occupied only by crew members, or where it is demonstrated that the installation of a stairway would be impractical, a vertical ladder may be used as a second means of escape.

19.6.5 Arrangement of Stairways

  1. All stairways, including stringers, treads and risers, shall be constructed of steel and shall be within enclosures constructed to a Class A-0 standard with self-closing fire doors of the same standard fitted at all levels.

  2. A stairway connecting only two decks need only be enclosed at one level.

  3. For all stairways, the sum of the riser height and tread depth shall be at least 430mm and not more than 460mm, and all stairways, other than exterior stairways, having treads of less than 260mm in depth, shall have a nosing of not less than 25mm or such other means that shall provide additional depth on the tread.

  4. For all stairways, handrails shall be fitted on both sides of the stairs, the handrails shall have a height measured vertically above the tread of not less than 840mm and not more than 910mm.

  5. Except where it is considered impracticable, at the top and bottom of each flight of stairs there shall be a clear landing having an area at least equal to the square of the actual tread width.

  6. The clear width of doors to stairways shall be at least equal to the actual stair width.

  7. The width of all stairways and inclined ladders shall be 760mm minimum.

  8. Stairways and inclined ladders primarily for the use of passengers shall have a maximum angle of inclination from the horizontal of 45 degrees.

  9. Stairways and inclined ladders for the use of the crew only shall have a maximum angle of inclination from the horizontal of 55 degrees.

  10. If the distance between handrails is less than the width of the treads the minimum stair width shall be measured between the handrails.

19.6.6 Location and Arrangement of Oil Fuel Tanks

  1. As far as is practicable, oil fuel tanks shall be located outside of machinery spaces and shall be constructed of steel or other equivalent material.

  2. Where oil fuel tanks constructed of aluminum alloy are located in a machinery space, or are located in, or adjacent to any space containing flammable material, the exposed surfaces of the tanks shall be insulated with a material that will provide structural integrity for at least 30 minutes.

19.6.7 Public Address System

  1. A public address system in accordance with TP127E, shall be fitted throughout all accommodation spaces.

19.6.8 Fire Detection and Alarm System

  1. Every vessel shall be fitted with a fire detection and alarm system in accordance with Part 20, Sections 20.1 to 20.4.

19.6.9 Ventilation Systems

  1. A ventilation duct serving an accommodation space, service space, or wheelhouse shall not pass through a machinery space;

  2. A ventilation duct serving a machinery space or galley which passes through an accommodation space, service space or wheelhouse shall be gastight and constructed of steel or aluminum alloy insulated with a material that will provide structural integrity for at least 30 minutes.

  3. An exhaust ventilation duct from a galley range shall be provided with a grease trap, be constructed of steel;

  4. Means shall be provided for closing the main inlets and outlets of ventilation systems from a position outside the spaces served by the systems.

19.7 Vessels Constructed of Fibre Reinforced Plastic (25 Berthed Passengers on HT III or IW II Voyages) ^

19.7.1 This sub-section applies to vessels, of fiber reinforced plastic construction, carrying not more than 25 berthed passengers on voyages not more exposed than Home Trade Class III or Inland Waters Class II voyages.

19.7.2 General

  1. The hull, superstructure, structural bulkheads and deckhouses when constructed of fibre reinforced plastic shall have a final layer of fire-retardant resin.

19.7.3 Machinery Spaces

  1. Exposed fiber reinforced plastic surfaces including the hull, deckhead, boundary bulkheads, casings and any trunks serving such spaces, shall be insulated with approved B-15 or 'F' Class panels or a material that will provide structural integrity for 30 minutes.

  2. Machinery space boundaries shall as far as is practicable be gastight.

19.7.4 Other Spaces

  1. Galleys, and storerooms containing flammable stores shall be separated from the remainder of the ship by bulkheads and decks constructed of B-15 Class or 'F' Class divisions.

  2. Divisional bulkheads, including corridor bulkheads in sleeping accommodation provided for passengers and crew, shall be B-15 or 'F' Class divisions.

  3. The wheelhouse shall be separated from the remainder of the ship by bulkheads and decks constructed of B-15 or 'F' Class divisions.

  4. All openings in the bulkheads and decks referred to in paragraphs 19.7.4.(a), 19.7.4.(b) and 19.7.4.(c) shall, as far as is practicable prevent the passage of smoke and flame.

19.7.5 Restriction of Combustible Materials

  1. All insulation including pipe and duct lagging shall be of approved non-combustible materials.

  2. The use of polyurethane foam as insulation material is not permitted.

  3. All linings and ceilings shall be of non-combustible materials.

  4. The exposed surfaces of linings and ceilings in accommodation spaces shall have low flame spread characteristics.

  5. The surface of any insulation fitted to the interior surfaces of machinery spaces shall be impervious to oil and oil vapours.

  6. All primary deck coverings in accommodation spaces, service spaces and wheelhouse shall be of a type that is not readily ignitable.

  7. Spaces containing flammable stores shall be situated so as to minimize the dangers to passengers and crew in the event of fire.

19.7.6 Means of Escape

  1. Stairways, ladders and doors, shall be arranged to provide ready means of escape from all passenger and crew spaces, to lifesaving equipment embarkation stations, such that:
    1. except where considered impracticable, two means of escape including the main entrance shall be provided from each general area accessible to passengers, crew accommodation and crew working areas;
    2. where two means of escape are fitted, they shall be as remote from each other as possible to prevent one incident blocking both escapes;
    3. doors that give direct access into an accommodation space from a machinery space shall be of steel gas-tight construction, and be of the self-closing type;
    4. there shall be no direct access from a machinery space to berthed crew or passenger accommodation.

  2. Any public space that has a deck area greater than 28 square meters shall have at least two exits and, where practicable, the exits shall have egress to different spaces so as to minimize the possibility that both exits could be blocked at the same time as a result of one incident.

  3. When in any public room, subdued lighting is used, the exits shall be clearly marked with illuminated signs, and any doors shall be constructed to open outwards.

  4. Vertical ladders and deck scuttles shall not generally be considered satisfactory as one of the means of escape, except that in areas occupied only by crew members, or where it is demonstrated that the installation of a stairway would be impractical, a vertical ladder may be used as a second means of escape.

19.7.7 Arrangement of Stairways

  1. All stairways, including stringers treads and risers, shall be constructed of steel and shall be within enclosures constructed of B-15 or 'F' Class divisions.

  2. A stairway connecting only two decks need only be enclosed at one level.

  3. For all stairways, the sum of the riser height and tread depth shall be at least 430mm and not more than 460mm, and all stairways, other than exterior stairways, having treads of less than 260mm in depth, shall have a nosing of not less than 25mm or such other means that shall provide additional depth on the tread.

  4. For all stairways, handrails shall be fitted on both sides of the stairs, the handrails shall have a height measured vertically above the tread of not less than 840mm and not more than 910mm.

  5. Except where it is considered impracticable, at the top and bottom of each flight of stairs there shall be a clear landing having an area at least equal to the square of the actual tread width.

  6. The clear width of doors to stairways shall be at least equal to the actual stair width.

  7. The width of all stairways and inclined ladders shall be 760mm minimum.

  8. Stairways and inclined ladders primarily for the use of passengers shall have a maximum angle of inclination from the horizontal of 45 degrees.

  9. Stairways and inclined ladders for the use of the crew only shall have a maximum angle of inclination from the horizontal of 55 degrees.

  10. If the distance between handrails is less than the width of the treads the minimum stair width shall be measured between the handrails.

19.7.8 Public Address System

  1. A public address system in accordance with TP 127E, "Ship Safety Electrical Standards", shall be fitted throughout all accommodation spaces.

19.7.9 Fire Detection and Alarm System

  1. Every vessel shall be fitted with a fire detection and alarm system in accordance with Part 20, Sections 20.1 to 20.4.

19.7.10 Location and Arrangement of Oil Fuel Tanks

  1. As far as is practicable, oil fuel tanks shall be located outside of machinery spaces and be constructed of steel or other equivalent material.

  2. Where oil fuel tanks constructed of aluminum alloy are located in a machinery space, or are located in, or adjacent to any space containing flammable stores the exposed surfaces of the tanks shall be insulated with a material that will provide structural integrity for at least 30 minutes.

  3. Oil fuel tanks constructed of fiber reinforced plastic, integral with the hull, shall have a final layer of fire retardant resin and the exposed surfaces of the tanks insulated with a material that will provide structural integrity for at least 30 minutes.

19.7.11 Ventilation Systems

  1. A ventilation duct serving an accommodation space, service space, or wheelhouse shall not pass through a machinery space;

  2. A ventilation duct serving a machinery space or galley which passes through an accommodation space, service space or wheelhouse shall be gastight and constructed of steel or aluminum alloy insulated with a material that will provide structural integrity for at least 30 minutes.

  3. If the ventilation duct serving the machinery space is an integral part of the structure the internal surfaces shall be coated with an approved fire retardant coating of the intumescent type or be insulated with a material that will provide structural integrity for 30 minutes.

  4. An exhaust ventilation duct from a galley range shall be provided with a grease trap, be constructed of steel.

  5. Means shall be provided for closing the main inlets and outlets of ventilation systems from a position outside the spaces served by the systems.

20. FIRE PROTECTION EQUIPMENT ^

20.1 Every vessel shall be fitted with a fire detection and alarm system complying with the requirements of the "Ship Safety Electrical Standard", TP 127E, in accordance with subsections 20.1.(a) and 20.1.(b) as follows:

  1. the accommodation and wheelhouse space shall be fitted with re-setable type detectors operated by an abnormal concentration of smoke, except where these spaces are in such close proximity to heating or cooking appliances that the detectors may be subject to false alarms;

  2. the propulsion machinery space, galley and other spaces containing heating or cooking appliances shall be fitted with re-setable type detectors operated by an abnormal temperature, together with an excess rate of temperature rise.

20.2 The alarm for warning of operation of the fire detection and alarm system shall be distinctive from other signals or alarms in the protected space.

20.3 Alarms sound levels shall be such that they can be heard above all shipboard noise when the vessel is operating at full power.

20.4 Alarm and detection systems shall have audio and visual indicators fitted at the command stations.

20.5 Subject to subsection 20.5.1, the propulsion machinery space shall be protected by a fixed gas fire extinguishing system complying with the Fire Detection and Extinguishing Equipment Regulations.

20.5.1 The system shall be manually operated; however, a change-over switch may be incorporated to allow automatic operation when the vessel is in port and the propulsion machinery is not operating. The switch shall be suitably identified to show mode of operation of system.

20.6 Where the vessel is constructed of wood, fibre reinforced plastic or aluminum, the system shall be provided with two complete and independent charges of gas.

20.7 In addition to the fixed gas fire extinguishing system required in section 20.5 every vessel shall be provided with portable fire extinguishers as prescribed in Table I, suitably located for immediate use in the event of a fire.

20.7.1 Fire extinguishers shall be permanently mounted with a quick release mechanism near the entrance to the space in which they are to be used.

20.7.2 Every vessel fitted with combustion fired cooking or heating appliances shall, in addition to any other portable fire extinguishers, be provided with one portable 1 kilogram multipurpose dry chemical extinguisher, mounted near each of the appliances.

20.7.3 CO2 fire extinguishers shall not be located in accommodation spaces.

20.7.4 Fire extinguishers shall be kept fully charged at all times; fixed gas containers and portable gas fire extinguishers shall be recharged whenever the loss of medium exceeds 10 per cent of rated capacity.

20.7.5 Every fire extinguisher shall be of a type approved by:

  1. Underwriters Laboratories of Canada;

  2. Underwriters Laboratory Inc.;

  3. The United Kingdom Department of Transport, Marine Division;

  4. The United States Coast Guard; or

  5. any other agency approved by the Regional Director.

20.8 Every vessel shall have a power pumping system for fire fighting together with a hose and dual-purpose jet/spray nozzle such that a sustained jet of water can be directed to any part of the vessel and the pumping arrangement and capacity shall be in accordance with Part 25, Schedule IV.

20.8.1 The internal diameter of pipes and hoses for fire fighting purposes shall not be less than 25 mm.

20.8.2 Where a bilge pump is used as a fire pump, a non-return valve or swing check valve shall be fitted between the sea connection and the bilge suction to positively prevent the accidental discharge or leakage of water into the bilge compartments.

20.8.3 Subject to subsection 20.8.4 sea suction and fire service piping and components connected to a fire pump shall be of rigid corrosion resistant material that shall not be readily rendered ineffective by heat, with a screwed or flanged connection.

20.8.4 Where it is necessary to reduce the effects of vibration, short lengths of fire resistant rubber may be installed and shall:

  1. be clearly visible at all times;

  2. be of sufficient strength to withstand collapsing due to suction.

20.9 Every vessel shall be equipped with two (2) fire buckets each complete with a 3 metre line, stowed in a readily accessible position.

20.10 Appliances that burn liquid fuel shall be so fitted that any leakage will be caught and retained in a drip tray.

20.10.1 There shall be free circulation of air all around and below all fuel burning appliances.

 TABLE I 

Space protected

Minimum Required

Medium

Min. Size

Class

Wheel House

1

Dry Chemical

2 kg

B-1, C-1

Machinery Space

1

Foam CO2 Dry Chemical

9 litres 7 kg 4.5 kg

B-1

Accommodation

1 for each 70 m3 or fraction thereof

Dry Chemical

4.5 kg

A-11

Galley, Pantry Concession Stand

1

Foam

Dry Chemical

9 litres

4.5 kg

B-11

 21. HEATING AND COOKING INSTALLATIONS ^

21.1 Genera ^

21.1.1 Heating and cooking installations shall be electrically operated except where the installed generator capacity is inadequate.

21.1.2 Accommodation and service spaces containing any fuel burning appliance shall be ventilated to ensure that when all appliances are in full operation in adverse weather conditions, a supply of air is being maintained to the spaces for the safety and comfort of personnel and the operation of the appliances.

21.2 Electric Appliances ^

21.2.1 Electric heating units, cooking appliances, water heaters and all other electrical appliances shall be installed in accordance with Ship Safety Electrical Standards, TP 127, be fixed in place and positioned so as to reduce fire risks to a minimum.

21.3 Fuel Burning Appliances ^

21.3.1 Fuel burning appliances shall be specifically designed for the fuel used, approved for marine use by a recognized agency and maintained in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations and instructions.

21.3.2 Fuel burning heating appliances shall be of enclosed construction and shut down automatically on detection of high temperature or flame failure.

21.3.3 Fuel burning appliances shall be firmly secured in place, positioned and insulated to reduce fire risks to a minimum.

21.3.4 Uptakes shall be so constructed and arranged as to minimize the possibility of their becoming blocked by combustion products and have a ready means of cleaning.

21.3.5 Uptake dampers, where fitted, shall maintain a safe minimum opening when in the closed position.

21.3.6 Fuel burning appliances shall have printed instructions for installation, operation and maintenance permanently mounted and readily visible in a location adjacent to the appliance.

21.3.7 In addition to the requirement of subsection 21.3.6 the following safety instructions shall be prominently mounted in any space where a fuel burning appliance is installed.

WARNING
ENSURE ADEQUATE FRESH AIR VENTILATION
WHEN USING FUEL BURNING APPLIANCE

 If leakage of fuel is detected or suspected, the following action should be taken immediately:

  1. Shut off fuel supply.
  2. Extinguish all naked flame and sources of ignition, e.g. heaters, cookers, cigarettes.
  3. Ventilate by creating a through draft of fresh air.

21.4 Liquefied Petroleum Gas Systems ^

21.4.1 Liquefied Petroleum Gas systems, including appliances, installations and warning notices shall comply with the Marine Machinery Regulations, Schedule XIII and conform to provincial gas enforcing authority standards.

21.4.2 Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) shall be used solely for domestic gas fuel burning ranges, domestic gas fuel refrigerators, gas fuel space heaters and gas fuel water heaters.

21.4.3 Appliances and components shall be designed for use with LPG and be certified as suitable for marine use by the Canadian Gas Association, the Compressed Gas Association, the Underwriters' Laboratories of Canada or the Underwriters' Laboratories Inc.

21.4.4 Liquefied Petroleum Gas systems shall be inspected by a technician, trained to the appropriate provincial standard, at the time of installation, if significant alterations are made and at regular intervals coinciding with the re-certification of the vessel.

21.4.5 The maximum quantity of Liquefied Petroleum Gas carried on board the vessel shall not exceed the contents of two 10 kilogram containers.

 

PREVIOUS | TABLE OF CONTENTS | NEXT

 
Last updated: Top of Page Important Notices