Inert Gas Systems
Our fire-fighting and fire prevention systems are essential for ensuring safety and protecting the life of the crew on board and property on your ships. These systems definitely require regular and proper maintenance to ensure their reliable operation in case of emergency.
However, increasing troubles on the systems recently reported to us suggest that they are notalways properly maintained. This document is to remind you of the typical consequences the lack of maintenance could have and of the importance of maintenance to keep the system sound and operable.
The negligence of the maintenance could lead to the failure of the system operation when needed and pose considerable risks to human life or property. Since these systems serve as the last resort for safety protection, you are kindly requested to review the maintenance arrangement to ensure their reliable operation.
Inspection/Maintenance Conducted by Uncertified Agencies
Uncertified agencies do not necessarily fully understand the fundamental structure and functions of the system, and sometimes omit electrical functional tests. Some reported malfunctions are caused by their unauthorized access to and improper modification of the program. In addition, replacing consumables is out of the scope of their service in most cases.
Their failure to detect and identify signs and symptoms for a malfunction could lead to serious consequences, including activation failure of the system.
The system requires the use of genuine components and regular maintenance for its proper operation.
Use of Nongenuine Components
The use of nongenuine components not only fails to guarantee the intended performance,
but can also cause system malfunctions or even lead to serious accidents. Some cases reportedto us show that corrosion and breakage of the rod and float in the scrubber and deck water seal are attributable to the use of nongenuine level switches.
The genuine components are designed with specific working conditions taken into account.
Do not use nongenuine components.