MSIS 12/CH 7/REV 1109/PAGE 1

CHAPTER 7

FIXED FIRE EXTINGUISHING INSTALLATIONS

7.1 General

7.1.1 The regulations, MSN 1666 and the Fire Safety Systems (FSS) Code
contain the general requirements for fixed fire extinguishing installations.
Details regarding design and construction of these systems are discussed
below.

7.1.2 For the periodic inspection, testing and maintenance of transportable
gas containers reference should be made to MGN 374. Surveyors should note
that Section 3 of BS EN 1968-2002, referred to in the MGN, states "Provided
the cylinder has been subjected to normal conditions of use and has not been
subjected to abusive and abnormal conditions rendering the cylinder unsafe,
there is no general requirement for the user to return a gas cylinder before the
contents have been used even though the test interval may have lapsed.
However it is recommended that cylinders are retested within a period not
exceeding twice the time interval". Cylinders which are not normally emptied
and filled, such as those for fixed CO2 extinguishing systems, may make use of
this provision but should be re-tested before twice the time interval has passed.

7.1.3 Where an M notice, these instructions or IMO MSC Circular 850
specify annual inspection or servicing of equipment a variation of +/- 1 month
may be considered acceptable. Where a 5 yearly interval is specified a
variation of +/- 3 months may be accepted. This general principle may be
applied unless the manufacturers instructions contradict it where upon the
manufacturers schedule applies.

7.1.4 Separation of spaces

Two spaces can be considered as separated spaces where fire
divisions as required by SOLAS II-2 regulations 9.2.2, 9.2.3 and
9.2.4, as appropriate, or divisions of steel are provided between
them.
(Unified Interpretation - MSC/Circ. 1120)

7.1.5 Location of closing devices

Openings which may admit air to, or allow gas to escape from, a
protected space should be capable of being closed from outside the
protected space.
(Unified Interpretation - MSC/Circ. 847)