The fixed CO₂ fire extinguishing system has been activated to extinguish a large engine room bilge fire. When is the best time to vent the combustible products from the engine room?
• Fixed CO₂ systems remove oxygen and require the space to remain sealed for a period after discharge • Reflash / re-ignition risk from hot metal surfaces and residual fuel vapors • Safe re-entry and ventilation procedures after CO₂ flooding in an enclosed machinery space
• Think about what happens to hot machinery and structure in the engine room after the flames are out but before everything cools down. How can that affect remaining vapors? • How does opening up and venting too early change the oxygen level and the chance of the fire starting again? • Which answer choice best balances getting smoke out with minimizing the risk of a dangerous reflash in the bilge area?
• Verify that the space should stay sealed for a holding period after CO₂ discharge, to let the gas work and the fire cool down • Consider whether hot metal surfaces can ignite vapors again if fresh air is introduced too soon • Confirm which option reflects standard practice of delaying ventilation until the chance of re-ignition is minimized
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