What is an EEBD and how does it work on ships?

An Emergency Escape Breathing Device (EEBD) is self-contained, short-duration oxygen breathing apparatus used on ships, cargo vessels, tankers, and offshore facilities to help crew escape hazardous atmospheres like smoke, toxic gas, or oxygen-deficient environments. Marine EEBDs such as the Semmco Marine 15 EEBD automatically start supplying breathable oxygen when deployed, enabling safe escape but are not designed for firefighting or rescue operations under SOLAS (Safety Of Life At Sea) standards. EEBD use and performance are governed by SOLAS Chapter II-2 and the International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) Fire Safety Systems Code.