Coast Guard Proposes Streamlined Foam Fire System Approvals
Published Date: 5/26/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The Coast Guard wants to update the rules for foam fire-extinguishing systems used on boats and ships. These changes will make the approval process easier, cut down on unnecessary testing, and save money for both businesses and the government. If you’re involved in making or using these systems, you have until July 27, 2026, to share your thoughts.
Analyzed Economic Effects
6 provisions identified: 6 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Codifies approval rules into CFR
The Coast Guard proposes to publish the type-approval criteria for marine foam fire-extinguishing systems in two new CFR subparts (46 CFR 162.033 and 162.040). This consolidation would make approval criteria easier to find, reduce administrative burden on industry and the government, and is intended to generate cost savings for industry and government operations.
Cut required fire tests from 4 to 2
Proposed 46 CFR 162.033-9(a)(10) would reduce the NFPA 11, Annex F fire-test requirement from four tests to two tests for foam concentrates used on tanker decks. This reduces the number of full-scale fire tests that independent laboratories and manufacturers must run during type approval.
Allows non-UL-listed components
Proposed 46 CFR 162.033-7(c) would permit the use of non-UL-listed components (for example, proportioners and foam-making devices) in fixed foam systems. This change gives manufacturers more design flexibility compared with current Coast Guard policy.
Adds alternative test standards
The proposal would incorporate by reference multiple existing standards (for example, UL 162; NFPA 11, 2024 Edition; MSC.1/Circ.1312; and ICAO guidance) as acceptable tests or alternatives for foam concentrate and component approval. Manufacturers and laboratories could use these alternative standards in the type-approval process.
More flexibility in test methods
Proposed changes would allow independent labs to conduct NFPA 11 Annex F tests outdoors or indoors, permit adjustments to nozzle aim and flow during tests, and allow multiple formulas for synthetic sea water. These changes give testing labs more procedural flexibility during approval testing.
Optional variable proportioning rate
Proposed 46 CFR 162.040-7(d) would allow foam hose reel stations to have a variable proportioning rate if approved by the Commandant (CG-ENG-4). Manufacturers could seek approval for different foam-to-water proportioning rates in future designs.
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