New SOLAS & FSS Code Requirements

Fires on weather decks of ro-ro passenger ships have proven to be disastrous, leading to numerous deaths and even total vessel loss. The significant risk of rapid spread of fire necessitates early detection and immediate suppression efforts. Delaying detection or suppression drastically increases the risk of an uncontrollable and catastrophic fire.

In recognition of the significant risk and effect of weather deck fires, new SOLAS regulations & Fire Safety Systems (FSS) Code were approved in June 2023 (New SOLAS Chapter II-2 Part G, Regulation 20 paragraphs 4, 5 and 6). These new requirements mandate that ro-ro passenger ships protect the weather deck with fire detectors and fire monitors. This will apply to both existing and new build ships, as follows:

1. ro-ro passenger ships built before 1 January 2026, should be protected by fire detectors and shall be protected by fire monitors, and they must comply by their first audit on or after 1 January 2028; and

2. ro-ro passenger ships built on or after 1 January 2026 shall protect the weather deck with fire detectors and fire monitors.

Strict Compliance May Not Be Enough

Fire grows exponentially. With each passing second, the chances of controlling and containing the blaze decreases dramatically. That's why it's crucial to detect a fire as soon as possible and begin suppression efforts immediately. Every moment of delay in detection or suppression greatly increases the risk of a catastrophic and uncontrollable fire.

The combination of fire detectors and remote control fire monitors are proven to significantly enhance fire safety. The newly-approved SOLAS regulations set minimum safety standards for ships, but they do not cover every possible scenario or hazard that may arise during a voyage.

The duty of care of a ship operator includes ensuring the safety of passengers and crew on board the ship, and providing adequate fire safety measures is a reasonable expectation, regardless of regulations.

As a result, ship operators may have a duty to take reasonable steps beyond those specifically mandated under SOLAS regulations and FSS Code. Failing to take reasonable measures to protect the weather deck from fire, taking into account modern equipment for the job, could potentially result in civil liability even when complying with SOLAS & the FSS Code.