Fire detection, alarm, and fire-fighting systems: Chapter II-2
What the exam tests
This domain tests fire detection, alarm indication, and fixed fire-fighting controls. The focus is on whether the bridge or continuously manned station can identify the zone, raise the crew, and discharge the right agent safely.
Core rules
Fire detection systems must give an alarm at the control panel and audible alarm in the protected space and on the bridge or continuously manned station. The panel must identify the section or zone, not merely say fire. Manual call points, smoke and heat detectors, and flame detectors are selected for the space and hazard. Fixed CO2 total-flooding systems need a pre-discharge alarm and a delay before release, with clear warning that the space must be evacuated. Fire pumps, hydrants, hoses, extinguishers and fire control plans are part of the same system. Detection loops must not be isolated for long maintenance periods without compensating arrangements.
Worked example
A smoke detector in a passenger cabin zone operates. The bridge panel shows the deck and zone, and the alarm sounds locally. The watchkeeper must send a team to investigate, keep the panel status, and not reset the system until the cause is confirmed. If the alarm is a fault, the zone is still treated as unprotected until the fault is cleared. A silenced alarm is not a cleared alarm.
Traps
Do not reset before locating the detector. Do not leave a zone isolated after maintenance without a record and restoration check. Do not confuse a pre-discharge alarm with the actual CO2 release. Do not assume a detector in a galley is suitable for cooking fumes; detector selection matters.