SHOBUTRA SDN. BHD
.(594102-D)
14- 4 , J AL AN 2/ 11 4, KU CHAI B US IN E SS C EN TR E, 58 20 0 K UAL A L U MP UR , MAL A Y SI A
TEL : + 60 3 - 7 98 4 92 88
F A X : + 60 3- 7 98 4 62 8 8
INSTRUCTION MANUAL FOR MANUAL RELEASE OF CO2 FIXED FIRE EXTINGUISHING
SYSTEM ON SHIPS
1. Introduction
This manual provides step-by-step instructions for the manual release of the CO2 fixed fire
extinguishing system on a ship. The CO2 system is designed to suppress fires in enclosed spaces,
such as engine rooms, cargo holds, or machinery spaces. Manual release is typically used in
emergencies when automatic systems fail or when immediate action is required.
WARNING:
 CO2 is a hazardous gas that can cause suffocation. Ensure all personnel are evacuated from
the protected space before releasing CO2.
 Manual release should only be performed by trained personnel.
 Follow all safety protocols and regulations as per the ship's safety management system
(SMS) and SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) requirements.
2. System Overview
The CO2 fixed fire extinguishing system consists of:
 CO2 storage cylinders (banks)
 Manifold and piping system
 Release controls (manual and automatic)
 Alarm and warning systems
 Ventilation shutdown mechanisms
3. Pre-Release Checklist
Before manually releasing CO2, ensure the following:
1. Confirm the Fire: Verify the presence of a fire in the protected space.
2. Evacuate Personnel: Ensure all personnel have evacuated the affected area.
3. Activate Alarms: Sound the general alarm and CO2 release alarm to alert crew members.
4. Shut Down Ventilation: Close all ventilation dampers and fans to prevent the spread of fire
and ensure CO2 concentration is maintained.
5. Seal the Space: Ensure all doors, hatches, and openings to the protected space are closed.
6. Wear Protective Gear: Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including
breathing apparatus if necessary.
4. Manual Release Procedure
Follow these steps to manually release CO2:
Step 1: Locate the Manual Release Station
 The manual release station is typically located outside the protected space, near the
entrance or in the ship's control room.
 Identify the release lever or handle, which is often secured with a safety pin or glass break
mechanism.
Page | 1
SHOBUTRA SDN. BHD
.(594102-D)
14- 4 , J AL AN 2/ 11 4, KU CHAI B US IN E SS C EN TR E, 58 20 0 K UAL A L U MP UR , MAL A Y SI A
TEL : + 60 3 - 7 98 4 92 88
F A X : + 60 3- 7 98 4 62 8 8
Step 2: Activate the Manual Release
1. Remove Safety Pin or Break Glass: If the release mechanism is secured, remove the safety
pin or break the glass cover to access the lever.
2. Pull the Release Lever: Firmly pull the lever to initiate the release of CO2 from the storage
cylinders.
Step 3: Monitor the Release
 Listen for the sound of CO2 being discharged through the piping system.
 Check the pressure gauges on the CO2 cylinders to confirm the release.
Step 4: Ensure Complete Discharge
 Allow sufficient time for the CO2 to fully discharge and fill the protected space.
 Do not re-enter the space until it has been declared safe by authorized personnel.
5. Post-Release Actions
1. Secure the System: After discharge, ensure the manual release lever is reset and the system
is secured.
2. Ventilate the Space: Once the fire is extinguished and the space is cooled, ventilate the area
thoroughly to remove residual CO2.
3. Inspect for Damage: Check the protected space for fire damage and ensure no re-ignition
occurs.
4. Recharge the System: Contact the ship's technical team or service provider to recharge the
CO2 cylinders and restore the system to operational status.
5. Report the Incident: Document the fire incident, CO2 release, and any damage in the ship's
logbook and report to the relevant authorities.
6. Safety Precautions
 Training: Ensure all crew members are trained in the operation of the CO2 system and
emergency procedures.
 Regular Drills: Conduct regular fire drills to practice manual release and evacuation
procedures.
 System Maintenance: Perform routine inspections and maintenance of the CO2 system to
ensure it is in good working condition.
 Warning Signs: Post clear warning signs near the manual release station and protected
spaces.
7. Emergency Contacts
 Ship’s Master: [Insert Contact Information]
 Chief Engineer: [Insert Contact Information]
 Safety Officer: [Insert Contact Information]
 Service Provider: [Insert Contact Information]
8. Troubleshooting
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SHOBUTRA SDN. BHD
.(594102-D)
14- 4 , J AL AN 2/ 11 4, KU CHAI B US IN E SS C EN TR E, 58 20 0 K UAL A L U MP UR , MAL A Y SI A
TEL : + 60 3 - 7 98 4 92 88
F A X : + 60 3- 7 98 4 62 8 8


No CO2 Discharge: If CO2 does not discharge after manual release, check for blockages in
the piping, ensure the cylinders are not empty, and verify the release mechanism is
functioning correctly.
False Alarm: If the system is triggered accidentally, immediately stop the release process
and reset the system.
9. Compliance and Regulations
Ensure all actions comply with:
 SOLAS Chapter II-2 (Fire Protection)
 IMO (International Maritime Organization) guidelines
 Flag state regulations
 Company safety policies
10. Conclusion
The manual release of the CO2 fixed fire extinguishing system is a critical emergency procedure that
requires careful execution. Always prioritize the safety of personnel and follow established protocols
to effectively suppress fires and protect the ship.
-END OF MANUALPage | 3