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Guidelines for maintenance and inspection of fire protection, detection and extinction equipment onboard Indian ships.

**Summary of DGS Circular 6 of 2013: Guidelines for Maintenance and Inspection of Fire Protection, Detection and Extinction Equipment Onboard Indian Ships**
Applicable to: All Indian ships
Effective Date: 18th August 2013
Superseded Circulars: Engineering Circulars No.17, 25, 41, 66, 81, and 113

Key Changes and Requirements

1. Purpose and Scope

This circular introduces a comprehensive guideline for periodical inspection and maintenance of fire protection, detection, and extinction equipment used on merchant ships, in accordance with SOLAS Chapter II-2.

  • Applicable Regulations: SOLAS Chapter II-2, Regulation 14
  • References: IMO Resolutions and Circulars (see list)

2. Maintenance and Inspection Guidelines

Maintenance and inspection routines should be carried out in accordance with the ship's maintenance plan, based on IMO MSC.1/Circ.1432, and manufacturer's instructions.

  • Periodicity: Weekly, monthly, quarterly, annually, biennially, five-yearly, and ten-yearly inspections
  • Responsibility: Master, Chief Engineer, and the Company (as defined in the ISM Code)
  • Competent Persons: Trained crew members, authorized service agencies, or manufacturer-trained personnel
II/4  Maintenance and Inspection of Portable and Semi-Portable Fire Extinguishers

3. Hydrostatic Testing of Pressure Cylinders

All pressurized cylinders should be hydrostatically tested at intervals not exceeding 10 years, as per ISO 6406 or equivalent standards.

  • Testing Facilities: Approved by the Chief Controller of Explosives or a recognized organization
  • Competent Person: Endorsement required on test certificates
Important Note

Compliance with this circular is mandatory. Non-compliance may result in penalties and vessel detention.

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