ASTM F1994-99(2023)

Standard Test Method for Shipboard Fixed Foam Firefighting Systems

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 This test method is applicable to fixed foam firefighting systems, including foam generation equipment, foam distribution system piping and valves, sprinkler arrangement and operation, hose reel unit operation, and system controls, as those components are included in the system for a particular application.  
4.1.1 Foam systems for machinery spaces are tested using those portions of this test method which apply to the installed components. Suitable adaptation of this test method is made for use with systems which do not include all hardware components described herein.  
4.1.2 Deck foam systems are tested in accordance with the manufacturer’s design criteria.  
4.2 This test method demonstrates: satisfactory installation of an entire fixed foam/sprinkling system and its associated controls; and effective operation of portions of the foam distribution system and foam maker sprinkling nozzles for selected zones.  
4.2.1 This test method verifies application rates and areas of coverage for each type of discharge device of the fixed foam firefighting system.  
4.2.2 The satisfactory operation of the system in the selected zones is a measure of overall system capacity and anticipated operation for emergency use. The test, however, may not be representative of all emergency operating conditions that may vary with changes in the number of zones that are activated simultaneously, the material condition of the distribution and sprinkling components as they are maintained over time, and restoration of the system following its use for testing or actual emergencies.  
4.3 Test procedures shall be prepared for the conduct of tests of foam firefighting systems in specific vessels. Those procedures shall be tailored to the system design for the system as installed and operated in each vessel.  
4.3.1 Tests accomplished in accordance with approved test procedures may be sufficient to demonstrate that the vessel meets the regulatory and classification requirements for the...
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers shipboard, fixed (installed) foam/sprinkling firefighting systems.  
1.2 Satisfactory completion of these tests indicates functional performance of the fixed foam firefighting system and may be used to demonstrate the system installation’s compliance with the design characteristics of the system.  
1.3 Tests made in conformity with this test method are intended to demonstrate the installation and operation of an installed, fixed foam firefighting system. As it includes regulatory requirements, this standard addresses those vessels subject to regulations and ship classification rules. However, the methods stated herein are suitable for unregulated commercial vessels, pleasure craft, military vessels, and similar vessels that are not required to meet regulations for firefighting systems.  
1.4 Limitations:  
1.4.1 International requirements, national regulations, and ship classification rules must be consulted. The following regulatory requirements and classification society rules were considered in the preparation of this test method:
1.4.1.1 International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), 1974 SOLAS Convention, 1978 SOLAS Protocol, and the 1981 and 1983 SOLAS Amendments, II-2/8, “Fixed low-expansion foam extinguishing systems in machinery spaces,”
1.4.1.2 U.S. Government regulations included in 46 CFR 76, 46 CFR 95, and 46 CFR 108 as those regulations are written and enforced by the United States Cost Guard, and
1.4.1.3 The American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels. However, the owner will designate the specific classification society which is to be used to classify a particular vessel.  
1.4.2 The requirements, regulations, and rules for a specific design must be selected by the owner based on the planned operating profile for the vessel.  
1.4.3 This test method reflects international requirements, U.S. Government regulations...

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 30-Apr-2023
• ICS: 13.220.10 - Fire-fighting
• ICS: 47.020.50 - Deck equipment and installations
• Technical Committee: F25 - Ships and Marine Technology
• Drafting Committee: F25.07 - General Requirements

Relations

• Refers: ASTM F1198-92(2023) - Standard Guide for Shipboard Fire Detection Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2023
• Refers: ASTM F1155-10(2019) - Standard Practice for Selection and Application of Piping System Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2019
• Refers: ASTM F1333-91(2019) - Standard Specification for Construction of Fire and Foam Station Cabinets
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2019
• Refers: ASTM F1370-92(2019)e1 - Standard Specification for Pressure-Reducing Valves for Water Systems, Shipboard
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2019
• Refers: ASTM F1198-92(2018)e1 - Standard Guide for Shipboard Fire Detection Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2018
• Refers: ASTM F1155-10(2015) - Standard Practice for Selection and Application of Piping System Materials
• Effective Date: 01-May-2015
• Refers: ASTM F1510-07(2013) - Standard Specification for Rotary Positive Displacement Pumps, Ships Use
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2013
• Refers: ASTM F1333-91(2013) - Standard Specification for Construction of Fire and Foam Station Cabinets
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2013
• Refers: ASTM A795/A795M-13 - Standard Specification for Black and Hot-Dipped Zinc-Coated (Galvanized) Welded and Seamless Steel Pipe for Fire Protection Use
• Effective Date: 01-May-2013
• Refers: ASTM F1198-92(2012)e1 - Standard Guide for Shipboard Fire Detection Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2012
• Refers: ASTM A795/A795M-08(2012) - Standard Specification for Black and Hot-Dipped Zinc-Coated (Galvanized) Welded and Seamless Steel Pipe for Fire Protection Use
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2012
• Refers: ASTM F998-12 - Standard Specification for Centrifugal Pump, Shipboard Use
• Effective Date: 01-May-2012
• Refers: ASTM F1370-92(2011) - Standard Specification for Pressure-Reducing Valves for Water Systems, Shipboard
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2011
• Refers: ASTM F1155-10 - Standard Practice for Selection and Application of Piping System Materials
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2010
• Refers: ASTM F1508-96(2010) - Standard Specification for Angle Style, Pressure Relief Valves for Steam, Gas and Liquid Services
• Effective Date: 01-May-2010

Overview

ASTM F1994-99(2023) - Standard Test Method for Shipboard Fixed Foam Firefighting Systems provides established procedures to test the installation and operational performance of fixed foam fire protection systems on vessels. These systems, vital for marine fire safety, include foam generation equipment, distribution piping, sprinkler arrangements, hose reels, and the associated controls. The standard applies to all vessel types-regulated and unregulated, including commercial ships, military vessels, and pleasure craft.

Compliance with ASTM F1994-99(2023) assures not only the correct installation and operation of foam-based fire suppression systems, but also demonstrates conformity with relevant international, national, and classification society requirements. The method outlines tailored test procedures specific to each vessel’s firefighting system, supporting both regulatory approval and internal safety validation.

Key Topics

• Scope of Application: Covers fixed foam and sprinkling systems installed on ships, including machinery space and deck applications. Suitable for new installations and performance verification.
• Testing Requirements:
  • Integrity testing of foam tanks, piping, and valves
  • Operational testing of pumps, foam makers, sprinklers, and hose reels
  • Demonstration of both local and remote system operations
  • Verification of application rates, coverage areas, and system capacity
• Regulatory Framework:
  • Considers the International Maritime Organization’s SOLAS requirements
  • Aligns with U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) regulations and American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) rules
• Safety and Environmental Considerations:
  • Outlines precautions to prevent accidental discharges and system damage during testing
  • Emphasizes protection of personnel, prevention of environmental contamination, and vessel stability during testing activities
• Test Documentation and Reporting:
  • Specifies the need for formalized test procedures tailored to the vessel
  • Requires comprehensive reporting, including results, pass/fail criteria, and corrective actions

Applications

• Compliance Demonstration: Utilized by shipowners, engineers, and surveyors to demonstrate that fixed foam firefighting systems meet regulatory and class society requirements.
• System Commissioning: Provides a framework for commissioning new or upgraded foam fire protection systems on ships, ensuring all components operate as intended before the vessel enters service.
• Inspection and Maintenance Verification: Offers structured methodologies for periodic operational checks and post-maintenance verification to ensure continued system reliability.
• Multiple Vessel Types: Adaptable for regulated and non-regulated vessels, including ferries, tankers, offshore platforms, research ships, and naval vessels.
• Custom Test Procedures: Each vessel’s unique system configuration may require modified testing steps, reinforcing the value of this standard for varied shipboard applications.

Related Standards

ASTM F1994-99(2023) is designed to work in conjunction with several other ASTM standards and key regulatory documents, including:

• ASTM F998: Specification for Centrifugal Pump, Shipboard Use
• ASTM F1155: Practice for Selection and Application of Piping System Materials
• ASTM F1198: Guide for Shipboard Fire Detection Systems
• SOLAS (International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea): Chapter II-2, “Fire Protection, Fire Detection, and Fire Extinction”
• 46 CFR 76, 95, 108: USCG fire protection and extinguishing system requirements
• ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels
• NFPA 11: Standard for Low Expansion Foam

Practical Value

• Risk Reduction: Regular, standardized testing greatly reduces the likelihood of fire suppression failure during onboard emergencies.
• Regulatory Approval: Assures port authorities and insurers that vessels conform to stringent safety and installation criteria.
• Operational Reliability: Periodic testing as outlined ensures all fire suppression equipment remains ready for emergency use and compliant with the operating profile of the vessel.
• Comprehensive Safety: Incorporates best practices to protect ship integrity, crew safety, and the marine environment during all phases of fire system testing.

By applying ASTM F1994-99(2023), marine operators and safety professionals can maintain high performance and regulatory compliance of shipboard fixed foam firefighting systems, supporting a safer maritime industry.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: F1994 − 99 (Reapproved 2023) An American National Standard
Standard Test Method for
Shipboard Fixed Foam Firefighting Systems
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F1994; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope 1.4.3 This test method reflects international requirements,
U.S. Government regulations, and ABS rules in effect at the
1.1 This test method covers shipboard, fixed (installed)
time it was prepared, and may not include requirements
foam/sprinkling firefighting systems.
adopted subsequent to the effective date of this test method.
1.2 Satisfactory completion of these tests indicates func-
1.4.4 This test method does not include requirements for the
tional performance of the fixed foam firefighting system and
selection, design, installation, and maintenance of foam fire-
may be used to demonstrate the system installation’s compli-
fighting systems. It applies to installed systems whose designs
ance with the design characteristics of the system.
meet all applicable international requirements, national
1.3 Tests made in conformity with this test method are regulations, and ship classification rules.
intended to demonstrate the installation and operation of an
1.5 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded
installed, fixed foam firefighting system. As it includes regu-
as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this
latory requirements, this standard addresses those vessels
standard.
subject to regulations and ship classification rules. However,
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the
the methods stated herein are suitable for unregulated commer-
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
cial vessels, pleasure craft, military vessels, and similar vessels
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
that are not required to meet regulations for firefighting
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
systems.
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.4 Limitations:
1.7 This international standard was developed in accor-
1.4.1 International requirements, national regulations, and
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
ship classification rules must be consulted. The following
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
regulatory requirements and classification society rules were
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
considered in the preparation of this test method:
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
1.4.1.1 International Convention for the Safety of Life at
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Sea (SOLAS), 1974 SOLAS Convention, 1978 SOLAS
Protocol, and the 1981 and 1983 SOLAS Amendments, II-2/8,
2. Referenced Documents
“Fixed low-expansion foam extinguishing systems in machin-
2.1 The following documents apply to this test method only
ery spaces,”
to the extent referenced herein. However, they may be further
1.4.1.2 U.S. Government regulations included in 46 CFR
invoked by the ship owner as part of the design requirements
76, 46 CFR 95, and 46 CFR 108 as those regulations are
for the vessel.
written and enforced by the United States Cost Guard, and
2.2 ASTM Standards:
1.4.1.3 The American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) Rules for
A795/A795M Specification for Black and Hot-Dipped Zinc-
Building and Classing Steel Vessels. However, the owner will
Coated (Galvanized) Welded and Seamless Steel Pipe for
designate the specific classification society which is to be used
Fire Protection Use
to classify a particular vessel.
F998 Specification for Centrifugal Pump, Shipboard Use
1.4.2 The requirements, regulations, and rules for a specific
F1030 Practice for Selection of Valve Operators
design must be selected by the owner based on the planned
F1155 Practice for Selection and Application of Piping
operating profile for the vessel.
System Materials
F1198 Guide for Shipboard Fire Detection Systems
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F25 on Ships
and Marine Technology and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee F25.07 on
General Requirements. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved May 1, 2023. Published June 2023. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
ɛ1
approved in 1999. Last previous edition approved in 2019 as F1994 – 99 (2019) . Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
DOI: 10.1520/F1994-99R23. the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F1994 − 99 (2023)
F1333 Specification for Construction of Fire and Foam 3. Terminology
Station Cabinets
3.1 Refer to Annex A1 for terminology used in this test
F1370 Specification for Pressure-Reducing Valves for Water
method related to fixed foam firefighting system installations
Systems, Shipboard
and their testing. Actual terminology used for fixed foam
F1508 Specification for Angle Style, Pressure Relief Valves
firefighting systems may vary depending upon the desires of
for Steam, Gas, and Liquid Services
the owner or system designer, or both.
F1510 Specification for Rotary Positive Displacement
Pumps, Ships Use
4. Significance and Use
F1547 Guide Listing Relevant Standards and Publications
4.1 This test method is applicable to fixed foam firefighting
for Commercial Shipbuilding (Withdrawn 2015)
4 systems, including foam generation equipment, foam distribu-
2.3 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR):
tion system piping and valves, sprinkler arrangement and
Title 46, Part 76 Fire Protection Equipment, Subpart 76.17,
operation, hose reel unit operation, and system controls, as
Foam Extinguishing Systems, Details
those components are included in the system for a particular
Title 46, Part 76, Subpart 76.23 Manual Sprinkling System,
application.
Details
4.1.1 Foam systems for machinery spaces are tested using
Title 46, Part 95 Fire Protection Equipment, Subpart 95.17,
those portions of this test method which apply to the installed
Foam Extinguishing Systems, Details
components. Suitable adaptation of this test method is made for
Title 46, Part 108 Design and Equipment, Subpart D, Fire
use with systems which do not include all hardware compo-
Extinguishing Systems, §108.459–§108.477
nents described herein.
2.4 ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels:
4.1.2 Deck foam systems are tested in accordance with the
Part 4, Section 6 Pumps and Piping Systems
manufacturer’s design criteria.
Part 4, Section 9 Fire Extinguishing Systems
Part 4, Section 11 Shipboard Automatic and Remote-control
4.2 This test method demonstrates: satisfactory installation
Systems of an entire fixed foam/sprinkling system and its associated
5/4B.11 Fire Protection and Fire Extinction
controls; and effective operation of portions of the foam
distribution system and foam maker sprinkling nozzles for
2.5 IACS Documents:
selected zones.
Comparable rules also are published by other members of
4.2.1 This test method verifies application rates and areas of
the International Association of Classification Societies
coverage for each type of discharge device of the fixed foam
2.6 IMO SOLAS Regulations:
firefighting system.
SOLAS II-2 Construction – Fire Protection, Fire Detection
4.2.2 The satisfactory operation of the system in the selected
and Fire Extinction
8 zones is a measure of overall system capacity and anticipated
2.7 ASME Standard:
operation for emergency use. The test, however, may not be
ASME B16.34 Valves – Flanged, Threaded, and Welding
representative of all emergency operating conditions that may
End
vary with changes in the number of zones that are activated
2.8 NFPA Publications:
simultaneously, the material condition of the distribution and
NFPA 11 Standard for Low Expansion Foam
sprinkling components as they are maintained over time, and
2.9 SNAME Bulletins:
restoration of the system following its use for testing or actual
Technical & Research Bulletin 3-39 Guide for Shop and
emergencies.
Installation Tests
4.3 Test procedures shall be prepared for the conduct of
Technical & Research Bulletin 3-47 Guide for Sea Trials
tests of foam firefighting systems in specific vessels. Those
procedures shall be tailored to the system design for the system
as installed and operated in each vessel.
The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on
www.astm.org.
4.3.1 Tests accomplished in accordance with approved test
Available from U.S. Government Printing Office, Superintendent of
procedures may be sufficient to demonstrate that the vessel
Documents, 732 N. Capitol St., NW, Washington, DC 20401-0001, http://
meets the regulatory and classification requirements for the
www.access.gpo.gov.
Available from American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), ABS Plaza, 16855
vessel.
Northchase Dr., Houston, TX 77060, http://www.eagle.org.
4.3.2 Approval of test procedures by a classification society
Other IACS members and locations at which their publications are available are
may be necessary.
identified by Guide F1547 at Section 4. Publication lists of some IACS members can
be found in Guide F1547, Section 5. 4.3.3 Test procedures must state operating parameters and
International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) is available
values (for example, flow rate, pressure, time to activate)
from International Maritime Organization (IMO), 4, Albert Embankment, London
which define pass/fail criteria for each test.
SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, http://www.imo.org.
Available from American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), ASME
4.4 Certification of the vessel or classification of the vessel
International Headquarters, Two Park Ave., New York, NY 10016-5990, http://
or both by the regulatory bodies may require that tests be
www.asme.org.
witnessed by a marine inspector or surveyor or both who
Available from National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 1 Batterymarch
Park, Quincy, MA 02169-7471, http://www.nfpa.org.
represents both regulatory bodies.
Available from Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers, 601
Pavonia Ave., Jersey City, NJ 07306. 4.5 Interpretation of Results:
F1994 − 99 (2023)
4.5.1 Leakage at any piping system mechanical joint that is 5.2.2 It is against environmental regulations to discharge
corrected “on-the-spot” is not cause for test rejection. seawater/foam solutions within three miles of shore in the
4.5.2 Any erratic operation detected in the zone control United States. Care must be taken to prevent discharge of foam
valves, seawater sprinkling pump discharge bypass-overboard into coastal waters of any country. Therefore, all in-port testing
valves, or control devices is cause for rejection of the test. The is to be accomplished using fresh water or clean seawater.
component causing the erratic operation shall be repaired or Foam concentration testing, by dispersion of actual seawater/
replaced and a retest performed. foam solution, is to be accomplished only when underway, well
4.5.3 Any operation which does not meet the pass/fail outside coastal waters, or the seawater/foam solution is dis-
criteria defined by the test procedure(s) is cause for rejection of charged to a containment vessel for disposal in conformance
the test. The cause of the failure shall be determined, the design with local regulations.
or installation, or both, corrected as appropriate, and a retest
5.2.3 Sprinkling or other discharge into interior spaces can
performed.
lead to water or seawater/foam solution accumulation. Vessel
stability can be dangerously affected if dewatering systems are
5. Hazards
not fully functional and operating. Operators must closely
monitor the amount of water accumulated on deck during any
5.1 Safety Hazards—The following safety precautions must
phase of demonstrations or testing. Demonstrations or testing
be taken when conducting tests in accordance with test
should be suspended if such accumulation cannot be controlled
procedures that conform with this test method. However, this is
and sufficient stability maintained.
not an inclusive listing of all hazards which may occur when
5.2.4 All equipment or surfaces that could be damaged by
this test method is followed, see 1.6. Appropriate safety hazard
water during testing, in way of hose reel discharge areas or in
statements must be included in test procedures that conform
zones where fresh water or seawater/foam solutions will be
with this test method.
discharged from foam maker sprinkling nozzles, or both,
5.1.1 Live control circuits are exercised during tests per-
should be covered with plastic or otherwise protected from the
formed in accordance with this test method. This can result in
discharge.
the inadvertent discharge of seawater or seawater/foam solu-
tion. 5.2.5 Any piping flanges that formerly were blanked to
conduct hydrostatic testing of the foam distribution system
5.1.1.1 Remote operation of valves which allow discharge
of fluids directly into interior spaces of the vessel is required. should be inspected for tightness during the operational tests.
5.1.1.2 Tag out electrical circuits or tag closed valves as 5.2.6 Precaution shall be taken to ensure proper valve
appropriate for each test.
alignment to prevent flooding the vessel during any test
5.1.2 The fixed foam firefighting system includes relief requiring operation of the seawater sprinkling system, seawater
valves and pressure-regulating valves which limit the internal
sprinkling pumps, foam proportioning pumps, and foam con-
pressures to which piping and valves of the system are centrate transfer pumps.
subjected. Failure of these devices to control or limit system
5.2.7 Any tests requiring seawater or seawater/foam solu-
pressure may result in component failures.
tion to be pumped through foam distribution system piping
5.1.3 The following safety and control devices are required
shall be conducted only after precautions have been taken to
to conduct the tests:
insure the watertight integrity at the maximum system operat-
5.1.3.1 Pumps’ relief valves;
ing pressure of all affected piping and valves.
5.1.3.2 Seawater sprinkling pump discharge bypass-
5.2.8 Appropriate zone control valves shall be tagged closed
overboard relief valves which must be set in accordance with
during in-port testing to preclude accidental discharge of foam
the maximum system operating pressure; and
concentrate entering the distributive system or being dis-
5.1.3.3 Zone sprinkling control, remotely operated valves,
charged overboard.
as applicable.
5.2.9 Isolate system areas or zones that are not used in a
5.1.4 All precautions to ensure safety of life and equipment
specific test.
protection in compliance with the industrial facility’s and
5.3 Remedial Statements—System restoration following
vessel’s established safety precautions shall be followed at all
demonstrations should include the following actions.
times in the conduct of foam firefighting system tests.
5.3.1 Restore all electrical power to the pumps and controls.
5.1.5 Portions of the fixed foam firefighting system should
Ensure that all electrical and control circuits are set for normal
not be disabled or isolated for tests until just before the a
operation.
specific test event is scheduled to commence. This will leave
the system functional for use in case of an actual fire. 5.3.2 Ensure that tags installed on remotely operated valves
have been removed.
5.2 Precautionary Statements—The following precautions
5.3.3 Ensure that all distribution piping and valves are
should be taken when conducting tests in accordance with test
aligned for normal operation.
procedures which conform with this test method. Appropriate
5.3.4 Clean up all areas and equipment that may have been
precautions and warning statements must be included in test
wetted by sprinkling or flooding incidental to these demonstra-
procedures that conform with this test method.
tions.
5.2.1 All appropriate electrical circuits must be de-
energized and tagged when doing any test or demonstration 5.3.5 Remove any “socks” or other devices installed to
involving contact with electrical conductors. contain water or foam discharged during demonstrations.
F1994 − 99 (2023)
5.3.6 Remove any test instrumentation or gauges installed 8.1.1.1 Such testing may be accomplished in accordance
for the demonstrations. with Guide F1198 and should meet the test requirements of that
5.3.7 Ensure that foam concentrate tanks are filled with guide.
foam concentrate.
8.1.1.2 Ensure continuity of all electrical signal or fiber
optic cable connections from the DCC to each remotely
6. Overview of Fixed Foam Firefighting System Tests
operated valve and its associated local control panel, the fire
control station, and each foam proportioning station and its
6.1 There are two phases of testing the fixed foam and
associated pumps and valves.
seawater sprinkling system: system installation tests and sys-
8.1.2 Piping and Valves—Testing of individual piping runs
tem operational tests.
and valves, including hydrostatic tests, shall have been com-
6.2 Installation testing is intended to demonstrate the integ-
pleted using any separate test procedures developed for fluid
rity of the system as it was installed in the vessel. It comprises
distributive systems. Documentation should be provided before
a series of tests to demonstrate that the foam/sprinkling system
starting the foam system tests.
is completely installed. It is essential that this testing be
8.1.2.1 Pipe and valves used for foam distribution should
completed before accomplishing any operational tests using
meet the test requirements of the material specifications for
seawater or foam.
items cited by Table 10, “Dry Fire Main, Foam, Sprinkling,
6.3 Operational testing is intended to demonstrate that the
Deckwash, Tank Cleaning Piping,” of Practice F1155.
system operates in each of its designed modes of operation.
8.1.2.2 The piping associated with foam proportioners sea-
System operational testing is accomplished through a series of
water valves should meet the testing requirements of Specifi-
individual tests to exercise all elements of the system. Some
cation A795/A795M.
tests will be performed with the vessel in port; other tests will
8.1.2.3 Remotely operated valve operators should be meet
be done with the vessel underway.
the testing requirements of Practice F1030.
8.1.2.4 Pressure regulating valves should meet testing re-
7. Prerequisite Requirements
quirements for pressure-reducing valves such as those found in
7.1 The following test materials are required to conduct the
Specification F1370.
tests:
8.1.2.5 Relief valves, when a component of piping systems,
7.1.1 Freshwater, sufficient to fill repeatedly all foam con-
should meet the test requirements of Specification F1508.
centrate tanks for in-port tests.
8.1.2.6 Butterfly-type quick acting valves should meet the
7.1.2 Foam maker pressure test fittings composed of the
testing requirements of ASME B16.34.
following: adaptors to install the fitting in-line with a sprinkler
8.1.3 Operating Stations—Testing of the following operat-
nozzle with branch connection to a globe needle valve and
ing stations to ensure electrical power is available, continuity
pressure gauge.
of electrical signal or fiber optic cable connections between the
7.1.3 Sufficient foam concentrate to conduct demonstrations
DCC and the remotely controlled valve(s) or pumps, and
and tests called for within this standard.
proper operation of the control consoles or panels at each
7.2 The following equipments and systems are involved in
station shall have been completed using any separate test
the testing. Required testing of individual equipments shall
procedures developed for that equipment.
have been completed before testing the foam firefighting
8.1.3.1 Fire control station, including signal connections to
system.
the foam proportioning stations,
7.2.1 All seawater and sprinkling/foam distribution system
8.1.3.2 Foam proportioning stations,
and transfer system piping in the foam firefighting system.
8.1.3.3 Zone control stations, including signal connections
7.2.2 All installed foam proportioners and foam concentrate
to the foam proportioning stations, and
tanks.
8.1.3.4 Hose reel unit controls, including signal connections
7.2.3 Foam concentrate, foam concentrate transfer, and
to the foam proportioning stations.
seawater sprinkling pumps.
8.1.4 Foam Transfer Stations—Testing of individual
7.2.4 Foam maker sprinkling nozzles, hose reels, and zone
components, including hydrostatic tests, shall have been com-
control valves.
pleted using the separate test procedures for foam transfer
7.2.5 Damage control console (DCC) or other central con-
stations. Pipe and valves used for foam transfer should meet
trol station operating controls, local control station control
the test requirements of the material specifications for items
panels, and fire control station operating controls.
cited by Table 10, “Dry Fire Main, Foam, Sprinkling,
Deckwash, Tank Cleaning Piping,” of Practice F1155.
8. Preparation for Testing
8.1.5 Test relief valves and pressure-regulating valves for
8.1 The following prerequisite testing shall have been com-
proper settings. Components such as pumps that have integral
pleted satisfactorily before commencing system tests of the
relief valves or bypass valves may have such valve settings
foam firefighting system.
verified as part of testing that component.
8.1.1 Control System—Testing of the central control sta-
tion’s DCC, including any remote alarms or operations con- 8.2 The following actions shall have been completed before
ducted through the DCC, shall have been completed using any commencement of tests of the applicable portions (or all) of the
separate test procedures developed for that equipment. foam firefighting system. (Warning—Safety procedures shall
F1994 − 99 (2023)
be followed to tag out electrical circuits or tag closed valves as 9.3.3.1 Align the pump to take suction from the sea and
appropriate for that portion of the test.) discharge overboard.
8.2.1 Isolate system areas that are not used in a specific
9.3.3.2 Seawater sprinkling pump relief valves should be set
portion of the test. (Warning—Close and tag valves to isolate
at the design operating pressure. Pressure control valves should
portions of the system including zones and hose reel units that
be adjusted so that the valves control pressure changes to
will not be tested. Visually confirm all designated valves are
design criteria.
closed.)
9.3.3.3 Demonstrate operation of sprinkling pump’s associ-
8.2.2 Install the test fittings (see 7.1.3) in the hydraulically
ated remotely operated valves by running the pump with
most remote foam maker nozzles between the reducer from the
system isolation valves closed. Ensure overboard isolation
branch connection and the nozzle inlet. Install pressure gauges.
valves are fully open and discharge pressure gauges indicate
Adjust the isolation valves as necessary during conduct of the
the design operating pressure.
test to obtain readings without excessive pressure fluctuation or
9.3.4 Additional requirements for foam concentrate pump
water hammer.
tests.
9.3.4.1 Foam concentrate pumps and seawater sprinkling
9. Conduct of System Tests
pumps typically are tested simultaneously because they do not
9.1 Foam Concentrate Tank Hydrostatic Test—Verify there
have individual controllers. In such instances, they both are
is a certification of the tank that it will withstand, at a
started together at the master controller.
minimum, the hydrostatic pressure to be seen as it is installed
9.3.4.2 Ensure that the foam concentrate isolation valves to
in the system. Lacking such certification, the foam concentrate
the foam proportioner are closed and tagged. Fill the foam
tank shall be tested as follows.
concentrate tank with freshwater or foam concentrate to an
9.1.1 Temporarily blank all openings except the overflow
adequate level to assure continuous suction. Align the pump to
piping. Fill the tank with fresh water to the top of the overflow
take suction from the tank and discharge back into the tank.
piping to establish maximum the hydrostatic head pressure.
9.4 Zone control valve and hose reel unit operational
Retain this pressure for a sufficient period of time to complete
demonstrations: Each zone control valve and hose reel unit
the visual inspection. Check tank external boundaries for
shall be tested. (Warning—In addition to other precautions,
leakage and structural damage.
the following steps are to be taken prior to demonstrations.)
9.1.2 Upon completion of the hydrostatic test, remove all
9.4.1 Secure electrical power to the foam concentrate
temporary blanks or plugs, or both. Freshwater may be retained
pumps. Ensure that appropriate remotely operated valves are
for use during pump operational tests and hose reel tests.
closed and tagged. Set up the system for SEAWATER opera-
9.1.3 All tanks and associated piping must be drained of all
tion before initiating each OPEN command.
water before the
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