Some spaces protected by fixed carbon dioxide systems are required to have audible alarms that begin sounding prior to the discharge of CO2. This time delay must be at least __________.

Correct Answer: Option A — 20 seconds

Per 46 CFR and SOLAS regulations, fixed carbon dioxide extinguishing systems protecting machinery spaces must feature pre-discharge alarms. These audible alarms must sound automatically and provide a mandatory time delay of at least 20 seconds to allow personnel evacuation.