The Fire Safety Systems (FSS) Code, 2026 Edition is the International Maritime Organization's book of engineering specifications for the fire safety systems that SOLAS Chapter II-2 requires on ships. It sets out how fixed fire-extinguishing systems, fire detection and alarm systems, emergency fire pumps and escape arrangements must be built and laid out.
Edition at a glance
| Title |
Fire Safety Systems (FSS) Code, 2026 Edition |
| Publisher |
International Maritime Organization (IMO) |
| Edition |
2026 |
| Formats |
Print book (English); digital e-reader (English, Spanish, French) |
| ISBN |
Book (English) 9789280118445 Digital (English) 9789280118452 Digital (Spanish) 9789280132366 Digital (French) 9789280125917 |
What the FSS Code covers
- International shore connections
- Fixed gas, foam and water-based fire-extinguishing systems
- Fire detection and fire alarm systems
- Sample extraction smoke detection systems
- Emergency lighting and means of escape
- Emergency fire pumps
- Related IMO resolutions and circulars on fire safety
How the Code works with SOLAS
SOLAS Chapter II-2 says which fire safety systems a ship must have. The FSS Code gives the technical specifications those systems must meet, and it has been mandatory under SOLAS since 1 July 2002. Designers, builders and surveyors read the two together.
Who uses it
Ship operators and technical superintendents, fire safety equipment makers and service firms, surveyors, and flag and class staff who check SOLAS Chapter II-2 compliance.
Formats
The print edition is in English. The digital edition is IMO's e-reader edition in English, Spanish or French.