The midships house of your break bulk ship is constructed with an interior stair tower from the main deck to the bridge. Under what circumstances may the doors from each deck to the stair tower be kept open when underway?

Correct Answer: Option D — They may be kept open if they can be automatically closed from the bridge.

SOLAS and 46 CFR regulations permit fire-screen doors in stair towers to remain open while underway only if equipped with a remote release mechanism operable from the navigating bridge to ensure rapid containment during emergencies.