Fire-fighting equipment in poor condition

Several 50kg wheeled dry powder fire extinguishers on board a vessel were found to have low pressure and heavy signs of corrosion. This was discovered during an audit walk-around by shore-based personnel.

Fire extinguishers being absolutely crucial safety equipment on a vessel, they should be maintained to the very highest standards in full readiness for use in an emergency. Regular thorough inspection of fire-fighting equipment to verify that this is so, is a regulatory requirement in some countries including the UK.

To view this IMCA safety alert in full, click the 'Download Alert' button above and refer to section 4 of the document.