4.1 The purpose of a shipboard fire detection system is to provide warning so as to reduce the life safety threat from fire and to minimize the fire threat to the operation of the ship. Given that few ships are identical either in size or layout, it follows that the fire detection system will have to be custom designed accordingly. A well-designed system provides a reasonable substitute to having crew members on constant fire watch in every protected space where a fire might occur.

4.2 The basic function of the fire detection system is to automatically and reliably indicate a fire condition as quickly as is practical and to alert responsible individuals of a fire's existence and location. This system design and application guide addresses the individual steps in the layout of the system and provides an overview of the information needed to design a system.

4.3 The U.S. Coast Guard and the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) regulations have been stated as requirements within this guide. Additional guidelines to assure complete and effective systems or to incorporate good industry practices are stated as recommendations.

1.1 This guide covers the selection, installation, maintenance, and testing of shipboard fire detection systems other than sprinkler systems.

1.2 This guide is intended for use by all persons planning, designing, installing, or using fire alarm systems onboard vessels. As it includes regulatory requirements, this guide addresses those vessels subject to regulations and ship classification rules. However, the principles stated herein are also suitable for unregulated commercial vessels, pleasure craft, military vessels, and similar vessels that are not required to meet regulations for fire detection and alarm systems.

1.3 Limitations—This guide does not constitute regulations or ship classification rules, which must be consulted when applicable.

1.4 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.