Abstract:
Container fires onboard ships represent one of the major risks to maritime safety, with a
growing trend in line with the increasing complexity of cargo and global trade volume.
The limitations of conventional firefighting systems in reaching fire sources inside
enclosed containers pose a significant challenge in fire suppression efforts. This study
aims to analyze the differences in effectiveness between the HydroPen system and
conventional firefighting systems, as well as to examine the level of crew understanding
regarding the use and maintenance of the HydroPen system onboard MV. CMA CGM
Xiamen.
This research employs a qualitative method with a descriptive comparative approach.
Data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation, and analyzed
using data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing techniques. The results
indicate that the HydroPen system has a significant advantage in reaching fire sources
inside containers without the need to open them, making it more effective and safer
compared to conventional systems. However, the effectiveness of its implementation is
still influenced by the varying levels of crew understanding and readiness. In addition,
conventional systems continue to play an important supporting role, particularly in
external cooling to prevent fire spread.
The study concludes that the combination of the HydroPen system and conventional
firefighting systems is the most effective approach for handling container fires onboard
ships. Therefore, it is necessary to enhance crew competence through training and to
optimize the use of firefighting technology in order to improve maritime safety.
