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ClassNK Updates Container Ship Firefighting Guide
Classification society ClassNK has published the second edition of its guidelines for additional firefighting measures on container ships, introducing updated recommendations aimed at improving onboard fire safety.
The revised guidance reflects operational experience, industry feedback and recent international developments, helping shipowners strengthen fire protection beyond the minimum regulatory requirements.
Updated Guidance Builds on Operational Experience
The new Edition 2.0 updates the guidelines first introduced in April 2023. According to ClassNK, the revisions incorporate feedback from shipowners and shipbuilders, discussions within the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and lessons learned from vessels already in service.
The guidelines provide a framework for assessing voluntary firefighting measures and allow compliant ships to demonstrate enhanced safety standards through ClassNK notations.
New Measures for Faster Fire Response
Among the key updates is the recommendation to install additional fire hydrants on lashing bridges, enabling crews to respond more quickly to fires involving containers carried on deck.
The revised edition also introduces guidance on video monitoring systems designed to improve the early detection of fires in weather deck cargo areas.
Equipment Requirements Revised
ClassNK has updated several equipment requirements to better reflect operational practicality and cost efficiency.
One notable change reduces the recommended number of monitoring cameras from eight to two. The guidance also clarifies the role of portable infrared thermographic cameras, which can be used during firefighting operations and routine fire patrols to identify heat sources more effectively.
Focus on Enhanced Container Ship Safety
Container ships continue to carry increasingly diverse cargoes, creating new challenges for fire prevention and emergency response.
ClassNK said the updated guidelines are intended to help shipowners and operators adopt practical safety improvements while providing a recognised method of demonstrating these measures to charterers, insurers and other industry stakeholders.
Industry Support Continues
The organisation said it will continue developing technical guidance and certification services that contribute to higher safety standards across the maritime industry.
The updated guidelines are available through ClassNK's online member portal following user registration.
