What is the minimum number of fire extinguishers required in a ship’s engine room?

In a ship’s engine room, the minimum number of fire extinguishers required is at least two portable fire extinguishers. This requirement is designed to ensure that crew members have sufficient means to effectively combat potential fire hazards, which are particularly prevalent in engine rooms due to the presence of flammable fuels, lubricants, and high-temperature equipment.

Having at least two portable fire extinguishers provides redundancy, ensuring that if one extinguisher is inaccessible or has been used, there is still another available to the crew for immediate response. The portable nature of these extinguishers allows for flexibility and mobile use, which is essential in the often confined and complex environment of an engine room.

This requirement helps promote safety and preparedness by ensuring that multiple units are ready and operational in strategic locations, facilitating prompt action in the event of a fire incident.