Fire prevention measures between accommodations and high-risk areas such as engine
rooms and cargo tanks on chemical tankers are obligatory for marine vessels. Shipbuilding
classification societies play a crucial role in inspecting and certifying the fire insulation of
both newly constructed and operational marine vessels to ensure compliance with these
strict requirements. As per the rigorous testing outlined in Resolution A.754(18), within the
framework of the International Code for Application of Fire Test Procedures (Resolution
MSC. 61(67)) established by IMO, fire barrier materials necessitate certification from
laboratories endorsed by IMO.
These tests entail subjecting insulation products to a rigorous one-hour fire examination in
both horizontal and vertical orientations, with performance evaluations conducted by
monitoring temperature variations on the non-exposed surface. According to the prescribed
parameters, the temperature on the opposite side of the fire-exposed surface must not
exceed 140 °C after 60 minutes. Any deviation from this benchmark indicates the material's
inadequacy for the intended purpose. Prior to market accessibility, insulation materials
meeting these stringent criteria undergo certification by classification societies. Each
material is subjected to unique certification conditions, and it is the classification society's
responsibility to conduct thorough inspections and ascertain compliance with the final
regulations.
