A recent controversy has arisen: can the crew refill portable fire extinguishers themselves if they are rechargeable? ๐ค
๐ฌ The answer is clear: NO. Only certified shore service.
What do the rules say?
๐ SOLAS II-2/10.3.4:
Maintenance and refilling must be carried out in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and international standards.
๐ IMO MSC.1/Circ.1432:
Refilling of portable fire extinguishers is permitted only by an authorized service
๐ Class societies (DNV, ABS, etc.):
Expressly prohibit refilling by the crew – this may affect the status of the vessel and insurance coverage.
โWhy is this important?
- Violation of requirements = risk of fines from PSC and problems with class
In case of an incident โ possible refusal of insurance payments
Even if the crew knows how and wants to refill the fire extinguisher โ this is not their area of โโresponsibility. Refilling = shore service
Author: Capt. Artem Panchenkoะะฒัะพั: Capt. Artem Panchenko