Firefighting in large FRP composite cruise ships

Abstract: Thanks to amendments of the regulations governing safety of ships on international voyages, ship-builders are given the possibility to design large merchant ships in novel light-weight materials such as Fibre Reinforced Polymer (FRP) composite. As a part of a collaborative risk assessment, this report investigates the implications of using this new material for the personal risks of firefighting crew and for the effectiveness and efficiency of the firefighting organization. Furthermore, it investigates how current routines and equipment may be adjusted so they are suitable for large FRP cruise ships. Through a study of literature, interviews, and a comparison of relative risk, the author draws the conclusion that firefighting can be done at least as safe, effective and efficient in the novel lightweight FRP design, as in the prescriptive steel and aluminum design, if adjustments are made to the current firefighting routines and equipment.