The American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) has sent out a reminder on appropriate firefighting suits.
It is essential for shipowners to equip their crew with suitable firefighting gear to ensure the preservation of lives and vessels in the event of a fire.
Appropriate equipment should enable crew members to effectively combat fires in open-air environments and enclosed spaces, all while ensuring their personal safety.
Many suits on board are designed in accordance with the EN 531 standard. However, this standard is designed for industrial workers exposed to heat and is not intended for firefighting. Moreover, some suits labeled under EN 531 feature unprotected metal zippers, buttons or clasps, which can conduct heat and cause burns.
A protective suit meeting the demands of firefighting is one complying with the European standard EN 469:2005, as noted below. Level 2 is required for firefighting in enclosed spaces. EN 469:2005 and its revised version EN 469:2020 also mandate a risk assessment to be made.
Below is a list of other frequently encountered standards for firefighting suits found on board:
• EN 1486 (Europe)
• ISO 15538 (International)
• NFPA 1971 (USA)
• NISTIR 7467 (USA)
• GA 634-2015 (China)
Due to the different requirements of every country, there are some differences between standards. Before purchasing suits according to a specific standard, it is advisable to read the test methods and minimum performance requirements of the specific standard. In addition, standards such as EN 469 and ISO 15538 emphasize the significance of conducting a risk assessment.
The update also includes information on additional requirements for EU vessels, EMSA guidance, requirements for SOLAS vessels and its own recommended actions.
Read the reminder: ABS Regulatory News 06/2024