Emergency Fire Pumps on Ships: Requirements, Locations, and Testing Procedures

Fire safety is a critical aspect of maritime operations, and having a reliable fire pump system is essential to prevent and combat onboard fires. Ships are required to comply with SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) regulations, ensuring that emergency fire pumps are properly located, maintained, and tested regularly.

In this article, we answer the most frequently asked questions about emergency fire pumps on ships, providing insights into their importance, regulatory requirements, and testing procedures.

1. What is the SOLAS Requirement for an Emergency Fire Pump?

SOLAS regulations mandate that ships must have emergency fire pumps outside the engine room in case of engine compartment fires.

• Passenger ships over 1,000 GT and cargo ships over 2,000 GT must have at least one emergency fire pump.
• The pump should be independent of the main fire pumps and capable of providing sufficient water pressure for firefighting.
• It must be self-priming and able to operate even when the ship’s main power is lost.

These requirements ensure that a fire can still be fought effectively even if engine room systems fail.

2. Where Should the Emergency Fire Pump Be Located?

According to SOLAS regulations, the emergency fire pump must be:

• Located outside the engine room to remain operational in case of engine room fires.
• Installed in a separate watertight compartment with an independent power source (such as a diesel-driven motor or emergency generator).
• Equipped with dedicated piping to supply fire hydrants and hoses throughout the vessel.

Proper placement ensures that firefighting systems remain functional even during power failures or engine room emergencies.

3. How Many Fire Pumps Are on a Ship?

The number of fire pumps depends on the type and size of the vessel.

• Cargo ships and tankers typically have two or more fire pumps, including the main fire pump and an emergency fire pump.
• Passenger ships have a more extensive firefighting system, often equipped with multiple pumps to cover various sections of the vessel.
• Tankers carrying flammable cargo may have additional foam fire pumps for specialized firefighting.

These pumps ensure adequate water supply and pressure for firefighting operations at all times.

4. How Do You Test an Emergency Fire Pump on a Ship?

Regular testing of emergency fire pumps is crucial to ensure they function correctly in an actual emergency. The standard testing procedure includes:

1. Testing with Isolation Valves Closed

   • This ensures the pump can operate independently and provide sufficient pressure.

2. Hydrant Valve Inspection

   • Checking all fire hydrants onboard to verify they function properly.

3. Pressure Testing of Fire Hoses

   • A sample of fire hoses is tested at maximum fire main pressure.
   • SOLAS requires that all fire hoses are tested within five years.

4. Verifying Relief Valves

   • If the emergency fire pump has relief valves, they must be set and adjusted correctly.

5. Filter Examination

   • All filters in the fire pump system should be checked and cleaned to ensure uninterrupted water flow.

These tests confirm that the pump can provide water at the required flow rate and pressure for effective firefighting.

Conclusion

Emergency fire pumps are an essential safety feature on ships, ensuring that fires can be controlled even in the event of power loss or engine room damage. Compliance with SOLAS regulations, proper placement, and regular testing are crucial for maintaining a ship’s firefighting capability.

Understanding these key aspects helps maritime professionals, crew members, and engineers ensure fire safety readiness onboard their vessels.