Guide

PURPOSE OF THIS GUIDE:

The Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission is developing resource materials to help employers and workers to carry out their responsibilities for health and safety in the workplace. This specic booklet, Fishing Vessel Fire Safety, is designed to provide an understanding of eective re safety initiatives and emergency response planning.

OH&S PREVENTION

Fishing Vessel Fire Safety

For more information on the development and implementation of this and other programs, contact Prevention Services at: (709) 778-1552 or toll free 1-800-563-9000

Fishing Vessel Fire Safety

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission (the Commission) would like to acknowledge the Professional Fish Harvesters Certication Board, the Fish, Food and Allied Workers Union, and the Marine Institute for their assistance with development and distribution of this booklet.

INFORMATION SOURCES
Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission Prevention Services Phone: (709) 778-1552 Toll free 1 800 563-9000; Department of Government Services Occupational Health and Safety Branch Phone: (709) 729-2706 Or toll free 1-800-563-5471 Professional Fish Harvesters Certication Board Telephone: (709) 722-8170 Fax: (709) 722-8201 Email: pfh@pfhcb.com

DISCLAIMER
The Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission provides information and health and safety advisory services for most aspects of occupational health and safety programming. The information presented is subject to a disclaimer. It is intended to provide examples of general use and may not apply to every circumstance. While all reasonable eorts have been made to ensure the accuracy of the information presented, the Commission does not and cannot guarantee the accuracy thereof. The Commission does not warrant or assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of the information presented, nor for any actions taken in reliance thereon. The Commission shall not be liable for any damage or loss arising out of the use of the information or the application of the concepts contained therein. All those using the information do so at their own risk and shall be deemed to indemnify the Commission from any loss or damage arising from the use of the information. The information presented is subject to jurisdictional variation and is always subject to change. Individuals or organizations responsible for working with the information presented are responsible for ensuring that all applicable standards and regulations are fullled. The information presented cannot and should not be considered a denitive guide to government regulations nor does it relieve individuals or organizations using the information from their responsibilities under any or all applicable legislation.

www.whscc.nl.ca

September 2011

Table of Contents

Introduction ............................................................................................................................2 Nature of Fire ..........................................................................................................................3 Fire Protection: The importance of vessel design ...................................................................4 Fire Prevention ........................................................................................................................4 Fire Classication Chart ..........................................................................................................5 Fire Detection .........................................................................................................................6 Fireghting ..............................................................................................................................7 Fire Extinguisher Chart ............................................................................................................9 Emergency Response Planning .............................................................................................11 F-I-R-E ...................................................................................................................................12 References ............................................................................................................................13 Fire Inspection Checklist ..................................................................................................14-16

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Nature of fire Fire is a relationship between three components: Fuel, heat, and oxygen. For fire to start in any combustible substance, each one of these components must be present. Fire Triangle:

Oxygen: Fire only requires 16% oxygen to support combustion. The air we breath contains 21%. Fuel: When a fuel, such as wood, cloth, or flammable gas becomes heated to its ignition point the material undergoes combustion. Heat: A heat source can ignite a fire in two ways; providing a direct flame, or by heating a fuel to its ignition temperature via conduction, convection, or radiation. Once ignited, fire continues to grow through a process of chemical chain reactions. Therefore, once started, there are four variables that sustain fire: fuel, oxygen, heat and chemical reactions. This is referred to as the Fire Tetrahedron. Fire Tetrahedron:

Fire can be prevented by controlling the three variables in the fire triangle. Once ignited, fire can be extinguished by controlling the four variables of the fire tetrahedron.

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Fire protection: The importance of vessel design Fire protection is an important aspect of vessel design. Structural fire protection refers to elements in vessel design that are intended to prevent and protect against the spread of T fire. It is visible in construction practices like the use of bulkheads, using fire resistant material, guarding or isolating fuel from heat sources, using fire doors or hatches, and in the design of electrical systems, fuel systems, ventilation and cooling systems. These engineering principles are incorporated during the construction and retrofitting of a vessel. Good engineering will help protect against fire hazards, but there are no guarantees. Good maintenance and inspection programs, along with other proactive M fire prevention strategies are also required. Fire prevention Most fires are caused by human action or lack of action. By being proactive, onboard fires can be prevented! Consider the following items: Training. All crew members should receive training regarding the nature of fire, fire hazard identification, fire prevention, fire fighting, and emergency procedures. Crew members should also receive training on safe work practices and procedures that will provide them with the knowledge to perform job tasks safely, such as refueling, vessel maintenance, hot work (welding or burning), and the storage of flammable material. Vessel Maintenance. A maintenance program involves good planning and the identification of critical parts that are essential to vessel safety. These could include items such as bearings, fuel lines, fittings, gear boxes, electrical systems, batteries, items requiring regular lubrication, etc. Once you have established a list of the various parts that require ongoing maintenance or repair you should develop a maintenance schedule that identifies which parts require weekly, monthly or annual maintenance. By documenting your work in a maintenance log book you will easily keep track of what has been accomplished and be better prepared for the next round of scheduled maintenance. Safety Inspections. An important part of fire prevention is conducting regular safety inspections. This process will allow you to identify and control fire hazards. The best practice is to conduct a formal inspection, using a checklist to ensure that no area is overlooked. Carefully inspect fire detection systems, fire extinguishers, and other life saving equipment.

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A sample fire inspection checklist has been provided at the back of this guide. Housekeeping. Crew members must ensure that all trash is picked up, that all spills are contained and cleaned up, and that all oily rags, painting material, and other flammable materials are properly stored away from heat sources. Also ensure that all flammable materials are properly shored to prevent shifting while at sea. Galley. A vessels galley has great potential for fire and should never be left unattended when in use. Most galley fires are due to poor housekeeping. Therefore, all trash and waste must be properly disposed of and you should monitor grease accumulation and ensure cleanliness. All galley stoves must be secured to prevent movement, and must be fitted with rails to restrain movement of cooking utensils. All fuel supply lines to a stove must also be equipped with shutoff values. Smoking. Care must be taken when discarding cigarettes and matches. It is a good practice to soak smoking materials with water before discarding them and ensure that there is no smoking in the engine room, galley, sleeping quarters, or during refueling operations. Fire prevention by fire class. Fire is classified into five general classes based on the type of fuel involved:
Type of fire Symbol Fuel Prevention Good housekeeping Regular rounds of working premises Use of fire retardant/fire resistant materials Properly trained personnel Proper storage of oil and flammable products Properly maintained fuel handling systems No smoking Properly trained personnel Properly maintained electrical equipment Ensuring proper electrical insulation no naked wires Using weather proof fittings where necessary Switching off electrical equipment when not in use (lights, fans, air conditioners etc.) Properly trained personnel Understanding the characteristics of onboard chemicals and combustible metals and the operating procedures that must be implemented for handling these materials. Properly trained personnel

Class A

Wood, paper, cloths etc.,

Class B

Flammable liquids and gases

Class C

Electrical cables and electrical motors, switchboards etc.,

Class D

Combustible metals

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Class K

Grease, cooking oils

Good housekeeping Empty grease traps regularly Inspect and clean dirty ducts Ensure proper storage of flammable items Inspect for faulty or frayed electrical cords Properly trained personnel

Class D Fires require special extinguishing agents produced for specific combustible metals. None of the extinguishing agents mentioned in this booklet will effectively deal with Class D Fires.

Fire detection The purpose of fire detection is to quickly detect the presence of fire and provide a warning to occupants. There are two basic methods of fire detection: 1. Manual detection. Is dependent upon a person to detect the presence of fire. To assist, vessel owners could install closed circuit televisions in areas such as the engine room or galley so that these areas can be monitored from the bridge. If a fire is discovered, the individual should shout: FIRE! FIRE! FIRE or activate an alarm system before trying to extinguish a fire. 2. Automatic detection. Refers to the various types of alarm systems. There are many different types of fire detection systems, each with advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, careful consideration must be given to the selection and placement of fire detection systems. The three main types of automatic fire detection are flame, heat and smoke detectors. 1. Flame detectors detect the presence of radiant energy generated by flame by using an ultraviolet (UV) or infrared (IR) sensor. These are sensitive detectors that can be set off by welding or even direct sunlight. 2. Heat detectors sense thermal output from fire and can be based on fixed temperature (i.e. activated when temperature increases above a programmed temperature) or rate of rise (i.e. can detect a fast developing fire). 3. Smoke detectors sense the presence of particles in the air. There are two basic types of smoke detectors. i. Photoelectric sensors detect the presence of smoke particles. As such, they are sensitive to smoldering fires but react slowly to flaming fires. This type of detector cannot be powered by batteries. ii. Ionization detectors detect combustion products like carbon particles. They respond well to flaming fire but insensitive to smoldering fires. Unlike photoelectric detectors, ionization detectors can be powered by batteries.

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Use correct procedures for the type of extinguisher you are using Never turn your back on a fire Never allow the fire to get between you and safety Always report usage of an extinguisher to the Master Once used, do not place the extinguisher back in its normal station replace with new extinguisher as soon as possible Another important factor is to ensure that the type of extinguisher provided is suitable for the type of hazard likely to be encountered.

Please consider the following chart regarding fire extinguishing agents:

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Extinguisher Flammable Liquid Pros Cons Conducts electricity Can spread class B fires Flammable Gases Electrical Equipment Cooking Oils and Fat

Considerations Recommendations

Colour

Type

Type of Fire Solids (wood, paper, cloth, etc)

WATER

ax x x x
Excellent cooling properties

Do not use on electrical fires

YES

NO

NO

NO

NO

Minimal chance of re ignition

Conducts electricity Damages/dest roys equipment Apply to a vertical surface & allow foam to run down and spread over a fire

FOAM

aa x x a
YES YES NO NO YES

Works well on flammable liquids

Foam may deteriorate during storage

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Fast and effective Fire must also be cooled to prevent re ignition Highly corrosive to electronic equipment

DRY POWDER

aaaa x
YES YES YES YES NO
Various types of chemical for different classes of fire General purpose ABC available Does not conduct electricity Does not deteriorate during storage

If used in enclosed areas get fresh air as soon as possible.

Agent can cake and solidify in container

Oxygen displacement is temporary Fire must also be cooled to prevent re ignition Keep fingers & hands away from discharge nozzle. If used in enclosed areas get fresh air as soon as possible.

CARBON DIOXIDE (CO2)

x
NO YES

a
NO

aa
YES YES

Non corrosive, non damaging to equipment

CO2 usually in limited supply Displaces oxygen could cause asphyxiation

Emergency Response Planning It is the responsibility of the Master to ensure that crew members are aware of what they must do in an emergency situation. Masters must ensure that their vessel has an emergency response plan and that all crew members are fully informed. Fire drills should also be conducted on a regular basis to ensure that crew members are fully aware of their roles and responsibilities in the event of a fire or an abandon ship scenario. If a fire does occur, crew members must act quickly to contain and extinguish the fire. In the worst case scenario, crew members may have to abandon ship if a fire cannot be contained. Transport Canada regulations specify the requirements for life rafts and survival suits. Please consult the regulations for specific requirements for your vessel. Inspection and maintenance of these items is vital to ensure that they are in good working order. It is also extremely important that crew members are trained in the use of emergency equipment. Conclusion The first goal of fire safety is to prevent fires from occurring. Regular maintenance, inspection, and use of fire prevention strategies will aid in the prevention of fire. Although, everyone onboard plays a role, the Master has specific responsibilities to ensure compliance with Transport Canada regulations and to ensure that all crew members are informed and trained in their respective emergency roles and responsibilities. The importance of preparedness and training cannot be overstated.

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Remember F

I R E

FIND the fire, the location, and its size INFORM

Sound alarm or shout FIRE! FIRE! FIRE to notify all hands Make a distress call to Coast Guard and nearby vessels Activate emergency firefighting procedures

RESTRICT the fire

If possible: o Shut off air supply to the fire close hatches, ports, etc. o De energize electrical systems in affected space o Shut off fuel supply and ventilation o Set fire boundaries to confine the fire Maneuver vessel to minimize the effect of wind on the fire

EXTINGUISH the fire

Determine class of fire, appropriate equipment, extinguishing agent and method of attack Extinguish and them watch or re ignition Muster crew to account for all personnel If unable to control fire, prepare to abandon the vessel

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References and Supplemental Reading Cowley, J. (2002). Fire Safety at Sea. Marine Engineering Practice Series, Volume 1, Part 5. Adam, B. (2000). Marine Fire Fighting. International Fire Service Training Association PFHCB (2002). Basic Safety for Fish Harvesters. Professional Fish Harvesters Certification Board of Newfoundland and Labrador Transport Canada (2003). Small Fishing Vessel Safety Manual. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). www.nfpa.org Canada Shipping Act, 2001. http://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/acts regulations/acts 2001c26.htm

PAGE 13

Fire Safety Inspection Checklist

Vessel __________________________________ Date _________________________ Completed by _________________________________________

Acceptable A. Fire Detection Are fire/smoke detectors provided Have smoke detectors been tested Are alarm pull stations unobstructed B. Fire Suppression Fire Station Fire station properly marked Hose accessible Hoses in place and free of cuts and abrasions Nozzles in place and applicator provided (if required) Valves unobstructed and easily operated Hose spanner in place Fire axe present Pumps tested for flow and pressure and ready for service Fixed Fire Suppression Systems Operating instructions posted System equipment or storage spaces free of debris or improper stowage Clearance maintained around sprinkler heads Operating control valves unobstructed and in good operating condition Alarms and indicators in good order Operating controls set for proper operation Piping intact; free of visible leaks, rust, or corrosion Discharge outlets in good condition Operating instructions posted C. Electrical Electrical panels clear of obstruction Proper use of extension cords or power bars Free of improper fusing or bridging Free of makeshift wiring D. Exit Routes Exit signs illuminated Corridor free of hazards Stairs/stairwells clear Lighting adequate

Unacceptable

Assigned To

Date Corrected

PAGE 14

Checklist 1 of 3

Acceptable
E. Safety Equipment Life Saving Equipment Life rafts Emergency packs Life jackets quality and quantity Flares Life raft securing and launching arrangement Means of re-boarding First Aid Kit Navigation Equipment Navigation Lights Anchor Light Sound signaling Miscellaneous Equipment Compass Radar reflector Anchoring and mooring equipment Charts and publications Communication Equipment VHF radio if necessary Other Necessary Equipment F. Crew Quarters Direct, uncluttered means of escape; at least two routes available General alarm system in good order Area free of combustibles Area free of combustibles close to sources of heat Area free of overloaded electric circuits Area free of makeshift electrical wiring or repairs Electrical equipment properly grounded Fire extinguishers: a. In place and unobstructed b. Proper type and size c. Properly charged d. Date of last examination noted on inspection tag

Unacceptable

Assigned To

Date Corrected

Checklist 2 of 3

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Acceptable G. Galley Area free of combustibles Noncombustible receptacles with covers provided Galley hood and ducts a. Free of grease accumulations b. Cleaning date recorded Fixed extinguishing system properly marked Fire extinguishers: a. In place and unobstructed b. Proper type and size c. Properly charged d. Date of last examination noted on inspection tag Area free of leaking pipes and fittings Area free of overloaded electric circuits Electrical appliances in good repair Oven free of cracks or crevices Oven burners secured Deep fryer secured and covered Ventilation ducts, dampers and screens operational H. Deck Decks a. Free of combustible material b. Free of oil and grease c. Free of leaking pipes and fittings d. Free of damaged or leaking containers Cargo stowed properly Fuel for lifeboats properly stored No-smoking signs posted Paints and flammables properly stowed Oxygen, acetylene, and other gas cylinders stored upright and secured Fire extinguishers: a. In place and unobstructed b. Proper type and size c. Properly charged d. Date of last examination noted on inspection tag I. Engine Room Free of combustibles, waste, and oily rags Noncombustible receptacles with covers provided Ventilation ducts, dampers and screens operational Free of leaking pipes and fittings No combustible liquids in open containers Free of improper fusing or bridging Free of makeshift wiring Warning signs posted: a. High Voltage - Keep Clear b. No Smoking Motors free of lint and dust Motors clear of combustible material Ladders unobstructed Fire extinguishers: a. In place and unobstructed b. Proper type and size c. Properly charged d. Date of last examination noted on inspection tag

Unacceptable

Assigned To

Date Corrected

PAGE 16

Checklist 3 of 3

Contact information
Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission
St. Johns
146-148 Forest Road P.O. Box 9000 St. Johns, NL A1A 3B8 Prevention Services Inquiries (709) 778-1552 Prevention Services Fax (709) 778-1564 Toll Free 1 800 563-9000

Grand Falls-Windsor
26 High Street P.O. Box 850 Grand Falls-Windsor, NL A2A 2P7 Telephone: (709) 489-1600 Fax (709) 489-1616 Toll Free 1 800 563-3448

Corner Brook
Suite 201B, Millbrook Mall 2 Herald Avenue P.O. Box 474 Corner Brook, NL A2H 6E6 Telephone: (709) 637-2700 Fax (709) 639-1018 Toll Free 1 800 563-2772

whscc.nl.ca
Professional Fish Harvesters Certication Board
Telephone: (709) 722-8170 Fax: (709) 722-8201 Email: pfh@pfhcb.com