COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE RUSSIAN MARITIME SHIPPING REGISTER REQUIREMENTS AND THE RUSSIAN RIVER REGISTER REQUIREMENTS FOR COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS

Abstract

Comparative analysis results applicable the requirements of the Russian Maritime Register of Shipping Rules and Russian River Register Rules to structural fire protection (combustible materials) of river-sea-going ships are presented. The study purpose is to compare the safety standard levels laid down in the Rules of these classification societies for river-sea-going ships operating in similar areas and navigation conditions. As a research method, we used a point-by-point analysis of the requirements and approaches of these classification societies, as well as international and national regulatory documents on the basis of which they were developed. It is shown that the approach to classifying materials based on their test results, given in the rules of the River and Sea Registers, is generally the same, but there are fundamental differences in methods of testing materials and criteria for evaluating their results (combustibility tests, flame spreading, flammability, combustion products toxicity, smoke-forming capacity). Comparative analysis results are presented and directions for improving and harmonizing the regulatory and technical framework for mixed navigation vessels in relation to methods of testing materials and criteria for evaluating their results are outlined. The information presented in this article can be used for developing the Russian River Register Rules requirements, and also by design engineering organizations for developing technical documentation (analysis of compliance with the Rules requirements) necessary for a vessel transfer into River or Sea Registers classes.