Stay up to code on merchant vessel safety with the 2023 edition of NFPA 301, Code for Safety to Life from Fire on Merchant Vessels. Originally developed at the request of the United States Coast Guard, NFPA 301, Code for Safety to Life from Fire on Merchant Vessels, provides minimum requirements, with due regard to function, for the design, operation, and maintenance of merchant vessels for safety to life from fire and similar emergencies. Patterned after NFPA 101, Life Safety Code, it provides requirements for various types of merchant vessels. Important updates in the 2023 edition of NFPA 301 are essential for naval architects, vessel owners, and enforcers.

The latest edition: Requires that Group IV (small) passenger vessels with overnight accommodation, regardless of when they were constructed, have interconnected smoke detectors in all accommodation spaces that alarm throughout all accommodation spaces of the vessel Includes requirements that fire detection and alarm systems on vessels are maintained and tested in accordance with NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, in its entirety rather than specific chapters in that standard Requires that exit locations are unobstructed and accessible at all times Incorporates the requirements in IMO Assembly Resolution A.1116 (30), Escape Route Signs and Equipment Location Markings Permits the use of symbols in addition to or in lieu of words on exit signage Requires hybrid fire extinguishing systems to be listed, designed, and installed in accordance with NFPA 770, Standard on Hybrid (Water and Inert Gas) Fire-Extinguishing Systems Includes revised requirements pertaining to fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) to eliminate the possibility of confusion when this material is used for construction of the hull or other vessel components