Where candidates fall short
Most candidates can list firefighting equipment but stumble when asked about prevention — the measures that stop a fire starting or spreading. Examiners report that answers become vague once the conversation moves beyond extinguisher types. At command standard you must demonstrate a systematic, risk-based approach: you own the fire safety culture aboard.
Flash point — your non-negotiable foundation
Fuel oil for main and auxiliary machinery must have a flash point of not less than 60 °C (SOLAS II-2 Reg 4). Emergency generator fuel may be not less than 43 °C. Knowing these figures is expected; not knowing them in an oral is an immediate red flag.
Prevention in port
Fuel operations
- Hot work prohibition during bunkering; appropriate notices posted, ignition sources eliminated.
- Bunker delivery note and MARPOL sample retained; spill contingency in place before hoses connect.
- Bonding/earth where required by the berth operator.
Hot work
- Permit to work issued by the master or authorised officer; responsible — the decision sits with you.
- Area cleared of flammable material; fire main pressurised; fire extinguisher and fire watch in place.
- After work ceases: continuous fire watch for not less than 30 minutes, plus a further check 2 hours later.
- Never delegate the decision to issue a hot-work permit without your explicit authority.
General port risks
- Shore power connections inspected; correct rating confirmed; no overloading.
- Galley exhaust filters cleaned regularly; unattended cooking prohibited.
- Smoking policy enforced; designated areas only, never in accommodation.
- Access control: minimise uncontrolled visitors; theft and sabotage are ignition risks.
Prevention at sea
Machinery spaces
- Fixed fire detection system tested before departure; detectors not blanked off.
- Engine room inspections on watch: oil mist, fuel leaks onto hot surfaces, and lagging condition are the classic ignition triangle.
- Fuel and hydraulic lines remote from exhaust manifolds; lagging intact and oil-free.
- Bilges kept clean and dry; flammable residue in bilges is an accelerant.
Accommodation and galley
- Deep-fat fryers never left unattended; automatic cut-outs checked.
- Galley watch-off brief: confirm all appliances isolated before the cook leaves.
- No combustibles stowed against or near electrical panels.
Electrical
- Shore-to-ship transition checked: correct breaker sizing, no nuisance trips bypassed.
- Cable runs inspected for chafe, especially in way of fairleads and structural penetrations.
- Any evidence of arc damage or burning smell is a stand-down-and-investigate situation — you do not accept 'probably fine'.
Watchkeeping culture
- Smell, smoke, and heat are your early-warning system. Train crew to report without hesitation.
- Fire patrols are a requirement under the yacht codes; ensure they are logged and genuine, not a walk-past.
- You set the culture. Corners cut on prevention become fires at sea.