Answer
CO2 flooding is the final course of action, used only when all else has failed. Proper sealing of the engine room is essential for effective extinction of fire. There were Incidents like CO2 is released, effective smothering did not occur due to improper sealing of engine room and fire remained unextinguished.
Before releasing a CO2 total flooding system on ships, several precautions must be taken to ensure the safety of personnel and equipment:-
1.Personnel Safety Briefing: Ensure that all personnel are briefed on the CO2 release procedure, including evacuation routes, assembly points, and safety precautions.
2.Verify System Integrity: Before releasing CO2, ensure that the total flooding system is in proper working condition and that there are no leaks or damages to the system.
3.Confirm Space Integrity: Ensure that all personnel have evacuated the space to be flooded with CO2, and confirm that there are no personnel remaining inside (Take head count).
4.Seal Openings: Close and seal all openings, such as Sky lights, Funnel Flaps, Blower Flaps, doors, hatches, and ventilation ducts, to prevent CO2 from escaping and to contain the flooding within the designated space.
5.Notify Authorities: Inform relevant authorities such as the coast guard or port authorities, captain and firefighting team, of the intention to release CO2 and the reason for doing so.
6.Secure Electrical Equipment and machinery: CO2 is non-conductive, but it can cause damage to electrical equipment. Shut down all electrical equipment in the space to prevent sparks or electrical fires during the CO2 release. Activate QCV.The Emergency generator should be started as CO2 flooding requires all engine room machinery, including the auxiliary power generator to be stopped (For Emerge fire pp- Boundary cooling). 7.Coordinate Communication: Maintain communication with relevant personnel, including the bridge, firefighting team, and engine room, to coordinate the CO2 release procedure and any necessary actions. 8.Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Anyone involved in the release procedure should wear appropriate PPE, including goggles and respiratory protection if necessary.
9.Follow Manufacturer's Guidelines: Adhere strictly to the manufacturer's guidelines and operating procedures for the CO2 total flooding system.
10.Survival craft standby.