Constructional Features of EEBD: Fire Fighting

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An Emergency Escape Breathing Device (EEBD) is an important life saving appliance which is used for escaping an area with

hazardous conditions such as may be fire, smoke, poisonous gases etc. All cargo ships and passenger vessels must carry EEBD at different locations, complying with amendments of chapter -3 of Fire system safety code (FSSC). It is important to understand the construction and working of EEBD before buying one.

The Emergency Escape Breathing Device (EEBD) contains breathing oxygen for a time period of at least 10 minutes, along with a low pressure audible alarm (whistle type). Most of the EEBD manufacturers provide time duration of 15 minutes to escape out from danger. However, it is to note that EEBD should never be used for fire fighting purpose or life saving purpose. Constructional Features of EEBD

EEBD includes the following:

Cylinder: It consists of small cylinder carrying oxygen, along with a demand valve and low pressure alarm. Hood & face piece: Fresh air or oxygen comes inside the hood and the face piece, which are connected to the cylinder through a demand valve. Clear window: A clear window is provided in the face piece and is made up of flame resistant material for clear sighting and smooth escaping.

SOLAS Requirement:

EEBD shall comply with Fire system safety code and a spare EEBD must be kept onboard ship. EEBD should be approved by the authority. All cargo ships must carry at least 2 EEBD in the accommodation area. All passenger ship must carry at least two EEBD in main vertical zones. For ships carrying more then 36 passengers, two EEBDs are additionally required in each main vertical zone. EEBD is to be located in easily visible areas of machinery spaces, mostly in engine control room, workshop and near escape routes. Brief instruction for operation and usage is given with diagrams or pictures.

The EEBD should be stored with suitable protection devices and in easy accessible areas. The maintenance of EEBD is done by shore people or manufacturers only as it has got a shelf life.

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