Deck General · Fixed Fire Systems
Before entering a space protected by a fixed CO2 system that has discharged, a crew member must:
- AWait at least 10 minutes for the CO2 to settle to the deck
- BDon a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and ensure ventilation is established✓ Correct
- CTest with a CO2 detector wand and enter only if readings are below 5%
- DOpen all ports and hatches, wait 2 minutes, then enter freely
Explanation
A space flooded with CO2 is immediately dangerous to life. Personnel must wear SCBA before entry to ensure an independent breathing air supply. Ventilation should be established (blowers running, openings cleared) before entry where possible. CO2 does not 'settle' — it mixes with air and remains concentrated. A 2-minute wait without SCBA is insufficient and potentially fatal.
Authority: Firefighting (USCG deck topic)
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