Fire Suppression Systems

Fire suppression systems are indispensable to ship safety. These automated systems quickly detect fires and respond immediately, protecting personnel, cargo, and the ship itself. These systems automatically release firefighting agents like water mist, foam, or carbon dioxide (CO2) to suppress or extinguish the flames. By rapidly containing fires, fire suppression systems prevent them from escalating and causing more widespread destruction.

Carbon dioxide fire suppression systems are among the most effective ways to extinguish fires without spreading the flames or damaging equipment. Unlike water-based suppressants that reduce heat, a CO2 fire suppression system floods the area with carbon dioxide, dropping oxygen concentrations to a level that can no longer sustain the fire.

However, CO₂ displaces oxygen, creating a dangerous asphyxiation risk for anyone in an enclosed space. Proper safety precautions are essential, as high concentrations of CO₂ above 5% can be hazardous to personnel, posing an asphyxiation risk.

The Hidden Danger of CO₂ Fire Suppression

Carbon dioxide is a colorless, odorless gas that displaces or depletes oxygen and, at elevated levels, can cause dizziness, confusion, headache, shortness of breath, unconsciousness, and even death due to asphyxiation.

CO2 fire suppression systems flood a space with carbon dioxide, removing oxygen to suffocate the fire. While this system effectively suppresses fires, personnel cannot detect unsafe CO₂ levels or determine if it is safe to reenter the area once the fire is extinguished.

What Happens When Oxygen Levels Drop?

Oxygen deprivation is often referred to as a silent killer. People exposed to an oxygen-deficient environment are not aware of the lack of oxygen in the air.

At 19.5% oxygen, your body starts to feel the effects.

At 16-18% oxygen, you may experience dizziness, confusion, and impaired coordination.

At below 10% oxygen, unconsciousness and death can occur within minutes.

Since CO₂ has no smell, color, or warning signs, a reliable oxygen deficiency monitor is the only way to detect when oxygen levels are too low for safe entry.

The Solution: PureAire Oxygen Deficiency Monitor

The PureAire Oxygen Deficiency Monitor measures oxygen levels within confined spaces where CO2 fire suppression systems 24/7.

Why PureAire is the Best Choice for Marine Safety

✔ Non-Depleting Sensor – Unlike traditional O₂ monitors, PureAire’s zirconium oxide sensor never needs replacing, ensuring years of worry-free protection.

✔ Real-Time Continuous Monitoring – Provides instant audible and visual alerts when oxygen levels fall below 19.5%, preventing accidents before they happen.

✔ Loud Audible & Visual Alarms – Audible and visual alerts are immediately triggered when oxygen reaches an unsafe level, alerting crew members to stay clear of the area until oxygen concentrations return to a safe level.

✔ Rugged & Marine-Ready – Designed for harsh conditions, including engine rooms, cargo holds, and fuel storage compartments.

✔ Regulatory Compliance –Meets USCG, SOLAS, and NFPA 12 marine safety standards.

Where to Install the PureAire Oxygen Deficiency Monitor?

To maximize safety, install the PureAire Oxygen Monitor in the following key locations:

Engine Rooms – The most common area for CO₂ suppression, making it a high-risk zone for oxygen depletion.

Fuel Storage Areas – Ensures crew safety in spaces where flammable materials require fire suppression.

Cargo Holds – Prevents asphyxiation risks in enclosed storage compartments.

Crew Workspaces – Adds an extra layer of protection near CO₂ fire suppression zones.

By strategically placing PureAire monitors, you eliminate the risk of oxygen depletion accidents and keep your vessel compliant with safety regulations.

Regulatory Compliance: Meeting Marine Safety Standards

CO₂ fire suppression is highly effective, but without proper safety measures, it can be deadly. Regulatory agencies require oxygen monitoring in enclosed spaces using CO₂ suppression.

✅ U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) – Recommends oxygen safety measures for CO₂ fire suppression systems.

✅ SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) – Mandates proper ventilation and oxygen monitoring before re-entry.

✅ NFPA 12 – 4.5.6 Establishes oxygen monitoring as part of CO₂ suppression safety.

✅ Classification Societies (ABS, Lloyd’s Register, DNV) – Recommends oxygen monitors to prevent accidental asphyxiation.

Using PureAire’s Oxygen Deficiency Monitor, ship operators ensure compliance with industry-leading safety regulations while protecting their crew from harm.

Best Practices for CO₂ Fire Suppression & Oxygen Monitoring

To ensure the highest level of safety, follow these best practices when using CO₂ fire suppression with the PureAire Oxygen Monitor:

✔ Install oxygen monitors near all CO₂ discharge areas.

✔ Ensure alarms are loud and visible for crew members.

✔ Regularly inspect and calibrate oxygen monitors for accuracy.

✔ Train crew members on oxygen deficiency risks and safety protocols.

✔ Never enter a CO₂-discharged area without checking oxygen levels first.

By implementing these best practices, you can eliminate the risk of oxygen-related accidents and create a safer working environment for everyone on board.

Conclusion

CO₂ fire suppression systems, because of their oxygen-depleting nature, are an effective fire prevention system for marine vessels, but they pose a serious risk to personnel—oxygen depletion. Without a proper monitoring system, crew members could unknowingly enter an oxygen-deficient space, leading to life-threatening consequences.

The PureAire Oxygen Deficiency Monitor is the best solution for ensuring safe oxygen levels before, during, and after a CO₂ discharge. Its non-depleting sensor, real-time monitoring, and immediate alarms provide unmatched safety and peace of mind for ship owners, captains, and crew.

Don’t take risks with oxygen depletion. Protect your crew and vessel today with the PureAire Oxygen Deficiency Monitor.

Ready to Upgrade Your Marine Safety?

Every ship using CO₂ fire suppression needs a reliable oxygen deficiency monitor. The PureAire Oxygen Deficiency Monitor is the best safety solution available, providing continuous, real-time monitoring to ensure a safe environment for your crew.

Contact PureAire today to learn how our industry-leading oxygen deficiency monitors can keep your crew, cargo, and vessel safe.