← Ireland

S.I. No. 274/1985 - Merchant Shipping (Passenger Ship Construction and Survey) Rules, 1985.

S.I. No. 274/1985 - Merchant Shipping (Passenger Ship Construction and Survey) Rules, 1985. Skip to content Disclaimer Feedback Helpdesk Gaeilge Léim go dtí an t-ábhar Séanadh Aiseolas Deasc chabhrach English Gaeilge English Produced by the Office of the Attorney General Táirgthe ag Oifig an Ard-Aighne Home Legislation Acts of the Oireachtas Statutory Instruments Pre-1922 Legislation Constitution External Resources Bills (Houses of the Oireachtas) Iris Oifigiúil / Official Gazette Revised Acts (LRC) Classified List of Legislation (LRC) Translations (acts.

  1. ie)Translations (Houses of the Oireachtas) Government Publications for Sale EU Law (EUR-Lex) FAQ Disclaimer Feedback Helpdesk Search Baile Reachtaíocht Achtanna an Oireachtais Ionstraimí Reachtúla Reachtaíocht Réamh-1922 Bunreacht Acmhainní Seachtracha Billí (Tithe an Oireachtais) Iris Oifigiúil Achtanna Athbhreithnithe (CAD) (An Coimisiún um Athchóiriú an Dlí) Liosta Rangaithe Reachtaíochta Aistriúcháin (achtanna.
  2. ie)Aistriúcháin (Tithe an Oireachtais) Foilseacháin Rialtais ar Díol Dlí AE (EUR-Lex) CCanna (Ceisteanna Coitianta) Séanadh Aiseolas Deasc chabhrach Cuardach TitleTeideal Year(
  3. s)or rangeBliain nó blianta nó raon TypeCineál All Legislation Acts Statutory Instruments Advanced SearchCuardach Casta HomeBaile Statutory InstrumentsIonstraimí Reachtúla 1985 S.I. No. 274/1985 - Merchant Shipping (Passenger Ship Construction and Survey) Rules, 1985. S.I. No. 274/1985 - Merchant Shipping (Passenger Ship Construction and Survey) Rules, 1985. AmendmentsLeasuithe S.I. No. 274 of 1985. MERCHANT SHIPPING (PASSENGER SHIP CONSTRUCTION AND SURVEY) RULES, 1985. ARRANGEMENT OF RULES. PART I— GENERAL 1. Citation, commencement, interpretation and application. 2. Exemption for certain classes of ships and individual ships. 3. Classification of ships. 4. Structural strength. PART IIA— WATERTIGHT SUBDIVISION. 5. Application of Part II A. 6. Watertight subdivision. 7. Peak and machinery space bulkheads, shaft tunnels, etc. 8. Double bottoms. 9. Stability information. 10. Intact stability. 11. Stability in damaged condition. 12. Ballasting. 13. Construction of watertight bulkheads, etc. 14. Openings in watertight bulkheads, etc. 15. Means of closing openings in watertight bulkheads, etc. 16. Means of operating sliding watertight doors. 17. Watertight doors: signals and communications. 18. Construction and testing of watertight doors. 19. Ships carrying goods vehicles and accompanying personnel—watertight doors. 20. Openings in the shell plating below the margin line. 21. Side and other openings above the margin line. 22. Markings of doors, valves and mechanisms. 23. Weather deck. 24. Partial subdivision above the margin line. 25. Subdivision load lines. 26. Exhibition of damage control plans. PART II B— SHIPS NOT REQUIRED TO COMPLY WITH PART II A 27. Application of Part II B. 28. Stability. 29. Openings in the sides of the ship. PART III— BILGE PUMPING ARRANGEMENTS 30. Application of Part III. 31. General. 32. Number and type of bilge pumps: ships of Classes I and II. 33. Number and type of bilge pumps: ships of Classes II (A) and III. 34. Number and type of bilge pumps, etc.: ships of Classes IV and VI inclusive. 35. Requirements for bilge pumps and bilge suctions. 36. Arrangement of bilge pipes. 37. Diameter of bilge suction pipes. 38. Precautions against flooding through bilge pipes. 39. Bilge valves, cocks, etc. 40. Bilge mud boxes and strum boxes. 41. Sounding pipes. PART IV— ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT AND INSTALLATIONS 42. Application of Part IV. 43. General. 44. Main source of electrical power and main switchboards: ships of classes I to III inclusive. 45. Lighting systems. 46. Emergency and transitional source of electrical power and emergency switchboards: ships of Classes I, II and II (A). 47. Starting arrangements for emergency generating sets: ships of Classes I, II, and II(A). 48. Emergency electric power services supplies: ships of Classes I, II and II(A). 49. Emergency source of electric power and emergency switchboard: ships of Class III. 50. Distribution systems. 51. Location and construction of electric cables. 52. General precautions against shock, fire and other hazards. 53. Electrical equipment in hazardous areas and spaces. 54. Spare parts and tools. PART V—BOILERS AND MACHINERY 55. Application of Part V. 56. General. 57. Machinery. 58. Means of manoeuvring and going astern. 59. Boilers and other pressure vessels. 60. Boiler feed systems. 61. Steam pipe systems. 62. Air pressure systems. 63. Cooling systems. 64. Oil fuel installations: (boilers and machinery). 65. Oil fuel installations: (cooking ranges and other heating appliances). 66. Oil systems for lubricating, heating, cooling and control. 67. Machinery controls. 68. Steering gear. 69. Electric and electro-hydraulic steering gear. 70. Ventilating systems in machinery spaces. 71. Protection against noise. 72. Communication between navigating bridge and machinery space. 73. Engineers' alarm. 74. Spare gear. PART VI—MISCELLANEOUS 75. Application of Part VI. 76. Means of escape. 77. Guard rails, stanchions and bulwarks. 78. Anchor handling equipment, anchors and chain cables. 79. Hawsers and warps. 80. Gas welding, flame cutting and domestic gaseous fuel installations. PART VII—SURVEYS AND CERTIFICATION 81. Survey requirements. 82. Maintenance of conditions after survey. 83. Issue of certificate. 84. Duration and validity of certificates. PART VIII—EQUIVALENTS 85. Alternative construction, equipment and machinery. SCHEDULES. First Schedule — Calculation of maximum length of watertight compartments. Second Schedule — Stability information. Third Schedule — Stability in damaged condition. Fourth Schedule — Construction of watertight bulkheads, etc. Fifth Schedule — Measurement of noise levels in machinery spaces. Sixth Schedule — Guard rails, stanchions and bulwarks. Seventh Schedule — Areas of smooth waters and partially smooth waters. S.I. No. 274 of 1985. MERCHANT SHIPPING (PASSENGER SHIP CONSTRUCTION AND SURVEY) RULES, 1985. I, JAMES MITCHELL, Minister for Communications, in exercise of the powers conferred on me by section 10 of the Merchant Shipping (Safety Convention) Act, 1952 (No. 29 of 1952), as amended by section 9 of the Merchant Shipping Act, 1966 (No. 30 of 1966), and the Ministers and Secretaries (Amendment) Act, 1983 , (No. 40 of 1983), hereby make the following Rules: PART I—GENERAL 1 Citation, commencement, interpretation and application. 1.

(1)These Rules may be cited as the Merchant Shipping (Passenger Ship Construction and Survey) Rules, 1985, and shall come into operation on the 16th day of September, 1985.
(2)In these Rules the following expressions have the following meanings respectively: "accommodation spaces" means: ( a ) public spaces; ( b ) corridors and lobbies; ( c ) stairways; ( d ) lavatories; ( e ) cabins; ( f ) offices; ( g ) crew spaces; ( h ) hairdressing salons; ( i ) pantries not containing cooking appliances; ( j ) lockers; and ( k ) space similar to any of the foregoing and trunks to such space; "approved" means approved by the Minister; "auxiliary steering gear" means the equipment, other than any part of the main steering gear, necessary to steer the ship in the event of failure of the main steering gear but not including the tiller, quadrant or components serving the same purpose; "breadth of the ship" means the greatest moulded breadth at or below the ship's deepest subdivision load waterline; "bulkhead deck" means the uppermost deck up to which transverse watertight bulkheads are carried; "control room" means a room either within or outside a propelling machinery space from which propelling machinery and boilers may be controlled; "control stations" means spaces in which radio or main navigating equipment, or the emergency source of power, or the central fire recording equipment, or fire control equipment, or fire extinguishing installations are located, or a control room located outside a propelling machinery space; "crew space" means crew accommodation within the meaning of the Merchant Shipping (Crew Accommodation on Board Ship) Regulations, 1951 ( S.I. No. 95 of 1951 ); "criterion numeral" in relation to any ship means the criterion numeral of the ship determined in accordance with such provisions of the First Schedule to these Rules as apply to that ship; "dangerous goods" means goods defined as such in the Merchant Shipping (Dangerous Goods) Rules, 1983 ( S.I. No. 306 of 1983 ); "dead ship condition" means the condition under which the main propulsion plant, boilers and auxiliaries are not in operation due to the absence of power; "deadweight" means the difference in tonnes between the displacement of a ship in water of a specific gravity of 1.025 and the lightweight of the ship; "emergency condition" means a condition under which any services needed for normal operational and habitable conditions are not in working order due to failure of the main source of electrical power; "emergency source of electrical power" means a source of electrical power intended to supply the emergency switchboard in the event of failure of the supply from the main source of electrical power; "emergency switchboard" means a switchboard which in the event of a failure of the main electrical power supply is directly supplied by the emergency source of electrical power or the transitional source of emergency electrical power and is intended to distribute electrical energy to the emergency services; "enclose superstructure" has the same meaning as in the Merchant Shipping (Load Lines) Rules, 1968, ( S.I. No. 205 of 1968 ); "equivalent material" where the words are used in the expression "steel or other equivalent material" means any material which, by itself or due to insulation provided, has structural and integrity properties equivalent to steel at the end of an appropriate fire test; "existing passenger ship" means a passenger ship which is not a new passenger ship; "factor of subdivision" in relation to any ship or portion thereof means the factor of subdivision determined in accordance with such of the provision of the First Schedule to these Rules as apply to that ship or portion as the case may be; "favourable weather" means fine, clear settled weather with a sea state such as to cause only moderate rolling and/or pitching; "floodable length" in relation to any portion of a ship at any draught means the maximum length of that portion having its centre at a given point in the ship which, at that draught and under such of the assumptions of permeability set forth in the First Schedule to these Rules as are applicable in the circumstances, can be flooded without submerging any part of the ship's margin line when the ship has no list; "forward perpendicular" means the forward extremity of the length of the ship as defined in this Rule; "freeboard deck" has the same meaning as in the Merchant Shipping (Load Line) Rules, 1968 ( S.I. No. 205 of 1968 ); "hazardous area" means an area in which explosive gas-air mixtures are, or may be expected to be, present in quantities such as to require special precautions for the construction and use of electrical apparatus or other apparatus which otherwise would constitute a source of ignition; "IMO Resolution A.265 (VIII)" means Resolution A.265 (VIII) adopted by the International Maritime Orgainsation entitled "Regulations on Subdivision and Stability of Passenger Ships as an Equivalent to Part B of Chapter II of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea 1960"; "independent power pump" means a pump operated by power otherwise than from the ship's main engines; "International Standard" means a standard specification published by the International Organisation for Standardisation obtainable from the Institute for Industrial Research and Standards (IIRS); "length" in relation to a ship, except for the purposes of Rule 20
(4)(
  1. b)(
  2. ii)and (
  3. c)(iii); means the length of a ship measured between perpendiculars taken at the extremities of the deepest subdivision load waterline; "lightweight" means the displacement of a ship in tonnes without cargo, fuel lubricating oil, ballast water, fresh water and feed water in tanks, consumable stores and passengers and crew and their effects; "Machinery space" in every Part of these Rules other than Parts 11A and 11B and the First Schedule to these Rules means any space which contains propelling machinery, boilers, oil fuel units, steam and internal combustion engines, generators and major electrical machinery, oil filling stations, refrigerating, stabilising, ventilation and air conditioning machinery and similar spaces, and where the context so admits any trunk to such a space; "Machinery space" in Parts 11A and 11B and the First Schedule to these Rules means any space extending from the moulded base line of the ship to the margin line and between the extreme transverse watertight bulkheads bounding the spaces containing the main and auxiliary propelling machinery, generators and boilers serving the needs of propulsion, when installed. "Machinery space of Category A" means a machinery space which contains: ( a ) internal combustion type machinery used either for main propulsion purposes or for other purposes where such machinery has in the aggregate a total power output of not less than 375 kilowatts; or ( b ) any oil fired boiler or oil fuel unit; and any trunk to such a space. "main circulating pump" means the pump installed for circulating water through the main condenser; "main generating station" means the space in which the main source of electrical power is situated; "main source of electrical power" means a source intended to supply electrical power to the main switchboard for distribution to all services necessary for maintaining the ship in a normal operational and habitable condition; "main steering gear" means the machinery, rudder actuators, steering gear power units, if any, and auxiliary equipment and the means of applying torque to the rudder stock, such as the tiller or quadrant, necessary for effecting movement of the rudder for the purpose of steering the ship under normal service conditions; "main switchboard" means a switchboard which is directly supplied by the main source of electrical power and is intended to distribute electrical energy to the ship's services; "margin line" means a line drawn at least 76 millimetres below the upper surface of the bulkhead deck at the side of the ship and assumed for the purpose of determining the floodable length of the ship; "maximum ahead service speed" means the greatest speed which the ship is designed to maintain in service at sea at her deepest seagoing draught; "maximum astern speed" means the greatest speed which it is estimated the ship can attain at the designed maximum astern power at the deepest seagoing draught; "marine Notice" means a Notice described as such and issued by the Department of Communications; "mile" means a nautical mile of 1,852 metres; "the Minister" means the Minister for Communications; "navigable speed" means the minimum speed at which a ship can be effectively steered in the ahead direction; "new passenger ship" means a passenger ship the keel of which is laid, or which is at a similar stage of construction, on or after 1st September 1984 or a cargo ship which is converted to a passenger ship on or after that date; "noise level" means 'A' weighted sound pressure level in decibels dB(A) as defined and tabulated in the British Standards specification number BS 5969: 1981; "non-combustible material" means material which when heated to a temperature of 750°C neither flames for longer than 10 seconds duration, nor raises either its internal temperature or the temperature of the test furnace more than 50°C above 750°C when tested in accordance with British Standard specification 476: Part 4: 1970 and the expression "combustible material" shall be construed accordingly; "normal operational and habitable condition" means a condition under which the ship as a whole, the machinery, services, means and aide ensuring propulsion, ability to steer, safe navigation, fire and flooding safety, internal and external communications and signals, means of escape, and winches for emergency boats, as well as the designed comfortable conditions of habitability are in working order for functioning normally; "oil fuel unit" means the equipment used for the preparation of oil fuel for delivery to an oil-fired boiler or the equipment used for the preparation for delivery of heated oil to an internal combustion engine, and includes any oil pressure pumps, filters and heaters dealing with oil at a pressure greater than 1.8 bar gauge; "open ro/ro cargo spaces" means ro/ro cargo spaces either open at both ends, or open at one end and provided with adequate natural ventilation effective over their entire length through permanent openings in the side plating or deckhead; "passenger" means any person carried in a ship except; ( a ) a person employed or engaged in any capacity on board the ship on the business of the ship; ( b ) a person on board the ship either in pursuance of the obligation laid upon the master to carry shipwrecked, distressed or other persons, or by reason of any circumstances that neither the master nor the owner not the charterer (if any) could have prevented; and ( c ) a child under one year of age; "passenger ship" means a ship carrying more than 12 passengers and propelled by electricity or other mechanical power; "passenger space" means a space provided for the use of passengers except as otherwise defined in paragraph 1
(3)of the First Schedule to these Rules; "permeability" in relation to a space means the percentage of that space which, on the assumption that it is in use for the purpose for which it was appropriated, can be occupied by water; "permissible length" of a compartment having its centre at any point in the length of a ship means the product of the floodable length at that point and the factor of subdivision of the ship; "power actuating system" means the hydraulic equipment provided for supplying power to turn the rudder stock, comprising a steering gear power unit or units, together with the associated pipes and fittings, and a rudder actuator. The power actuating systems may share common mechanical components, that is, tiller, quadrant and rudder stock, or components serving the same purpose; "public spaces" includes halls, dining rooms, bars, smoke rooms, lounges, recreation rooms, nurseries, libraries and similar public permanently enclosed spaces; "radiotelegraph room" has the same meaning as in the Merchan Shipping (Radio Installations) Rules, 1983 S.I. No. 308 of 1983 ); "ro/ro cargo spaces" means spaces not normally subdivided in any way and extending to either a substantial length of the entire length of the ship in which goods (packaged or in bulk, in or on rail or road cars, vehicles (including road or rail tankers), trailers, containers, pallets, demountable tanks or in or on similar stowage units or other receptacles) can be loaded and unloaded normally in a horizontal direction; "service space" includes galleys, pantries containing cooking appliances, lockers and storerooms, paint rooms, baggage rooms, workshops other than those forming part of machinery spaces, mail rooms and similar spaces and trunks to such spaces; "settling tank" means an oil storage tank having a heating surface of not less than 0.183 square metre per tonne of oil capacity; "similar stage of construction" means the stage at which: ( a ) construction identifiable with a specific ship begins; and ( b ) assembly of that ship has commenced comprising at least 50 tonnes or 1 per cent of the estimated mass of all structural material, whichever is less; "special category space" means any enclosed space above or below the bulkhead deck intended for the carriage of motor vehicles with fuel in their tanks for their propulsion, into and from which such vehicles can be driven and to which passengers have access; "steering gear control system" means the equipment by which orders are transmitted from the navigating bridge to the steering gear power units. Steering gear control systems comprise transmitters, receivers, hydraulic control pumps and their associated motors, motor controllers, piping and cables; "steering gear power unit" means: ( a ) in the case of electric steering gear, the electric motor and its associated electrical equipment; or ( b ) in the case of electro-hydraulic steering gear, the electric motor, its associated electrical equipment and connected pump; or ( c ) in the case of steam-hydraulic or pneumatic-hydraulic steering gear, the driving engine and connected pump; "subdivision load waterline" means the waterline assumed in determining the subdivision of the ship in accordance with these Rules; "suitable" in relation to material means approved by the Minister as suitable for the purpose for which it is used; "summer load waterline" has the same meaning as in the Merchant Shipping (Load Line) Rules, 1968 (S.I, No. 205 of 1968); "tons" means gross tons and a reference to tons; ( a ) in relation to a ship having alternative gross tonnages under paragraph 12 of the Fourth Schedule to the Merchant Shipping (Tonnage) Regulations, 1984 ( S.I. No. 369 of 1984 ) is a reference to the larger of those tonnages; and ( b ) in relation to a ship having its tonnage determined both under Part II and Regulation 16 of those Regulations is a reference to its gross tonnage as determined under Regulation 16 of those Regulations; "watertight" in relation to a structure means capable of preventing the passage of water through the structure in any direction under a head of water up to the ship's margin line; "weathertight" in relation to a structure means capable of preventing the passage of sea-water through the structure in the worst sea and weather conditions likely to be encountered by the ship;
(3)These Rules apply to: ( a ) new passenger ships registered in the State and, to the extent that the Minister deems reasonable and practical, to any major repairs, alterations or modifications to existing passenger ships registered in the State commencing on or after 1st September 1984; provided that any such repairs, alterations and modifications carried out pursuant to a contract entered into before 1st September 1984 shall be deemed to have commenced before that date. ( b ) other new seagoing passenger ships while they are within the State or in the territorial waters thereof. 2 Exemption for certain classes of ships and individual ships.
  1. The Minister may exempt certain classes of ships or individual ships from the provisions of any of these Rules, subject to such conditions as he may specify, and may alter or cancel any exemption so granted. In particular he may exempt: ( a ) any ship of Class II or II (A) (as defined in Rule 3 of these Rules) which does not proceed more than 20 miles from the nearest land, from the requirements of these Rules to the extent that he is satisfied that compliance therewith is unreasonable or unnecessary by reason of the sheltered nature and conditions of the intended services of the ship; ( b ) any ship which is not normally engaged on international voyages but which, in exceptional circumstances is required to undertake a single international voyage, from any of the requirements of these Rules; provided that the ship complies with safety requirements which in the opinion of the Minister are adequate for the voyage which is to be undertaken by the ship; ( c ) any ship which embodies features of a novel kind, from any of the requirements of these Rules if the application might, in his opinion, seriously impede research into the development of such features and their incorporation in ships engaged on international voyages; any such ship shall, however, comply with safety requirements which, in the opinion of the Minister, are adequate for the service for which it is intended and are such as to ensure the overall safety of the ship; ( d ) any ship of Class I or II (as defined in Rule 3 of these Rules) employed in special trades for the carriage of large numbers of special trade passengers, such as the pilgrim trade, from any of the requirements of these Rules; provided that she complies fully with the provisions of: (i) the Final Act of the International Conference on Special Trade Passenger Ships 1971 and (ii) the Protocol on Space Requirements for Special Trade Passenger Ships
  2. 3 Classification of ships. 3.
(1)For the purposes of these Rules passenger ships shall be arranged in Classes as follows: Ships engaged on international voyages: Class I. Ships engaged on voyages (not being short international voyages) any of which are long international voyages. Class II. Ships engaged on voyages (not being long international voyages) any of which are short international voyages. Ships not engaged on international voyages: Class II (A). Ships engaged on voyages of any kind other than international voyages. Class III. Ships engaged only on voyages in the course of which they are at no time more than 70 miles by sea from their point of departure and not more than 18 miles from the coast of the State and which are at sea only in favourable weather and during restricted periods. Class IV. Ships engaged only on voyages in partially smooth waters, or voyages in smooth and partially smooth waters. Class V. Ships engaged only on voyages in smooth waters. Class VI. Ships engaged only on voyages with not more than 250 passengers on board, to sea, or in smooth or in partially smooth waters, in all cases in favourable weather and during restricted periods, in the course of which the ships are at no time more than 15 miles, exclusive of any smooth waters, from their point of departure nor more than 3 miles from land.
(2)For the purposes of this Rule the following expressions have the following meanings respectively: "long international voyage" means an international voyage which is not a short international voyage within the meaning of the Merchant Shipping (Safety Convention) Act 1952 ; "partially smooth waters" means the waters of the area specified in column 3 of the Seventh Schedule to these Rules with the restriction if any, as to time and type of vessel specified in that column in relation to those waters. "restricted period" means a period falling wholly within the following limits; ( a ) between the 1st day of April and the 31st day of October, both dates inclusive; and ( b ) between one hour before sunrise and one hour after sunset in the case of ships fitted with navigation lights conforming to the Collision Regulations (Ships and Water Craft on the Water Order, 1984 ( S.I. No. 29 of 1984 ) and between sunrise and sunset in the case of any other ships; "sea" does not include any partially smooth waters; "smooth waters" means any waters not being the sea or partially smooth waters, and, in particular, means waters of any of the areas specified in column 2 of the Seventh Schedule to these Rules; "voyage" includes an excursion. 4 Structural strength.
  1. The structural strength of every ship shall be sufficient for the service for which the ship is intended. Part II A —Watertight Subdivisionu 5 Application of Part II A.
  2. This Part of these Rules applies to every ship not being an open or partially decked ship of Class V or a ship of Class VI carrying less than 101 passengers, provided that a ship which complies fully with regulations 2 to 8, 11 and 13 of IMO Resolution A.265(VIII) need not comply with the requirements of this Part, except that Rules 7, 10, 12 and 14 to 26 inclusive of these Rules shall apply. 6 Watertight subdivision.
  3. Every ship shall be subdivided by bulkheads, which shall be watertight up to the bulkhead deck, into compartments the maximum length of which shall be calculated in accordance with such of the provisions of the First Schedule to these Rules as apply to that ship. Every other portion of the internal structure which affects the efficiency of the subdivision of the ship shall be watertight, and shall be of a design which will maintain the integrity of the subdivision. 7 Peak and machinery space bulkheads, shaft tunnels, etc. 7.
(1)Every ship shall be provided with a collision bulkhead which shall be watertight up to the bulkhead deck and shall be fitted at a distance from the ship's forward perpendicular of not less than 5 per cent of the length of the ship and not more than 3.0 metres plus 5 per cent of such length. If the ship has a forward superstructure, the collision bulkhead shall be extended weather tight to the deck next above the bulkhead deck. The extension shall not be required to be fitted directly over the bulkhead below, provided that it is fitted at a distance of at least 5 per cent but not more than 3.0 metres plus 5 per cent of the length of the ship from the forward perpendicular and the part of the bulkhead deck which forms the step is made effectively weathertight. The plating and stiffeners of such an extension shall be constructed in accordance with the provisions of the Fourth Schedule to these Rules as if the extension formed part of a bulkhead immediately below the bulkhead deck.
(2)Where any part of the ship below the waterline extends forward of the forward perpendicular, the distances specified in paragraph
(1)of this Rule shall be measured from a point either: ( a ) at the mid point of the maximum length forward of the forward perpendicular of such an extension; or ( b ) at a horizontal distance forward of the forward perpendicular equal to 1.5 per cent of the length of the ship; or ( c ) at a horizontal distance 3.0 metres forward of the forward perpendicular; whichever gives the smallest measurement.
(3)Where bow doors are fitted and a sloping loading ramp forms part of the extension of the collision bulkhead deck above the bulkhead deck any part of the ramp structure which is more than 2.3 metres above the bulkhead deck may extend forward of the limit specified in paragraph
(1)as amended in paragraph
(2), if applicable. The ramp shall form a complete weathertight closure of the collision bulkhead extension above the bulkhead deck.
(4)Every such ship shall be provided with a watertight afterpeak bulkhead and with watertight bulkheads dividing the space appropriated to the main and auxiliary propelling machinery and boilers, if any, from other spaces. Such bulkheads shall be watertight up to the bulkhead deck, provided that the afterpeak bulkhead may be stopped below the bulkhead deck if the safety of the ship as regards subdivision is not thereby impaired.
(5)The stern gland of every ship shall be situated in a watertight shaft tunnel or other watertight space separate from the stern tube compartment and of such a volume that if the tunnel or space is flooded the margin line will not be submerged. The stern tube shall be enclosed in a watertight compartment, the volume of which shall be the smallest compatible with the proper design of the ship. 8 Double bottoms. 8.
(1)Subject to the provisions of this Rule every ship of Classes I, II and II (A) shall be fitted with a watertight double bottom which shall extend from the forepeak bulkhead to the afterpeak bulkhead, provided that the Minister may permit a double bottom to be dispensed with in compartments where its fitting would not be compatible with the design and proper working of the ship, subject to compliance with the following minimum requirements for fitting such a double bottom: ( a ) in ships of 50 metres but less than 61 metres in length, from the forward bulkhead of the machinery space to the collision bulkhead or as near to that bulkhead as is practicable; ( b ) in ships of 61 metres but less than 76 metres in length, from the collision bulkhead to the afterpeak bulkhead or as near to those bulkheads as is practicable, but not necessarily in the machinery space; ( c ) in ships of 76 metres in length or over a double bottom shall be fitted amidships and shall extend from the collision bulkhead to the afterpeak bulkhead or as near to those bulkheads as is practicable.
(2)The Minister may exempt any ship of Class II or II (A) from the requirements of a double bottom in any portion of the ship which is subdivided by application of a factor of subdivision not exceeding .50, if he is satisfied that the fitting of a double bottom in that portion of the ship would not be compatible with the design and proper working of the ship.
(3)When a double bottom is required by this Rule to be fitted in a ship, its moulded depth in millimetres measured at the centre line shall be not less than 406 plus 4.17 times the length of ship in metres and the inner bottom shall be continued out to the ship's sides in such a manner as to protect the bottom to the turn of the bilge. The inner bottom shall be deemed to be adequate for this purpose if the line of intersection of the outer edge of the margin plate with the bilge plating is not lower at any point than a horizontal plane passing through the point of intersection with the frame line amidships of a transverse diagonal line inclined at 25 degrees to the base line and cutting it at a point one-half of the ship's moulded breadth from the centre line.
(4)Wells constructed in the double bottom for the purpose of drainage shall not be larger nor extend downwards more than is necessary for such purpose. The depth of the well shall in no case be more than the depth of the double bottom at the centre line, less 460 millimetres, nor shall the well extend below the horizontal plane referred to in paragraph
(3)of this Rule, provided that a well extending to the outer bottom may be constructed at the after end of a watertight shaft tunnel fitted in accordance with Rule 7
(5)of these Rules.
(5)Wells for purposes other than drainage shall not be constructed in the double bottom. The Minister may exempt any ship from the requirement of this paragraph in respect of any well which he is satisfied will not diminish the protection given by the double bottom.
(6)Nothing in this Rule shall require a double bottom to be fitted in way of watertight compartments of moderate size used exclusively for the carriage of liquids, if the safety of the ship will not be impaired in the event of bottom or side damage by reason of the absence of a double bottom in that position. 9 Stability information. 9.
(1)Every ship on her completion shall be inclined and the elements of her stability determined. The master shall be supplied by the owner with reliable information relating to the stability of the ship in accordance with the following provisions of this Rule. The information relating to stability shall, before issue to the master, be submitted to the Minister for approval, together with a copy thereof for his retention and shall incorporate such additions and amendments as the Minister may in any particular case require.
(2)Where any alterations are made to a ship so as materially to affect the stability information supplied to the master, amended stability information shall be provided. The ship shall be re-inclined if the Minister so requires.
(3)Stability information provided pursuant to paragraphs
(1)and
(2)of this Rule shall be furnished in the form of a book which shall be kept on board at all times in the custody of the master. The information shall include particulars appropriate to the ship in respect of the matters specified in the Second Schedule to these Rules and shall be in the form set out in that Schedule. 10 Intact stability. 10.
(1)Every ship shall, in all probable loading conditions, satisfy the following stability criteria after due correction for the effect of free surface of liquids in tanks: ( a ) the area under the curve of righting levers (GZ curve) shall not be less than: (
  1. i)0.055 metre-radian up to an angle of 30 degrees; (
  2. ii)0.090 metre-radian up to an angle of either 40 degrees or the angle at which the lower edges of any openings in the hull, superstructures or deckhouses, being openings which cannot be closed weathertight, are immersed if that angle be less; (iii) 0.030 metre-radian between the angles of heel of 30 degrees and 40 degrees or such lesser angle as is referred to in sub-paragraph (ii); ( b ) the righting lever (GZ) shall be at least 0.20 metre at an angle of heel equal to or greater than 30 degrees; ( c ) the maximum righting lever (GZ) shall occur at an angle of heel not less than 30 degrees provided that the Minister may permit this angle to be reduced to 25 degrees having regard to the design of a particular ship; ( d ) the initial transverse metacentric height shall not be less than 0.15 metre.
(2)Where it is not possible, due to the particular design and operating conditions of a particular ship, to comply with the above criteria, the Minister may permit the application of such alternative criteria as he is satisfied gives a standard of stability at least as effective as that specified in paragraph
(1)of this Rule. 11 Stability in damaged condition. 11.
(1)( a ) In addition to the requirements of Rule 10 of these Rules, every ship shall be so constructed as to provide sufficient intact stability in all service conditions to enable the ship to withstand the final flooding of any one of the main compartments into which the ship is sub-divided in accordance with the provision of Rule 6 of these Rules. The sufficiency of intact stability required shall be calculated in accordance with the Third Schedule to these Rules. If two of the main compartments, being adjacent to each other, are separated by a bulkhead which is stepped under the conditions of paragraph 6
(3)(a) of the First Schedule to these Rules the intact stability shall be adequate to withstand the final flooding of those two adjacent main compartments. ( b ) Where in any such ship the factor of subdivision required under paragraph 4 or paragraph 9 of the First Schedule to these Rules is 0.50 or less but more than 0.33, the intact stability shall be adequate to withstand the final flooding of any two adjacent main compartments. ( c ) Where in any such ship the factor of subdivision required under paragraph 4 of the First Schedule to these Rules is 0.33 or less, the intact stability shall be adequate to withstand the final flooding of any three adjacent main compartments.
(2)For the purposes of this Rule the sufficiency of the intact stability of every such ship shall be determined in accordance with the provisions of the Third Schedule to these Rules.
(3)( a ) Every ship shall be so constructed as to keep unsymmetrical flooding when the ship is in a damaged condition at the minimum consistent with efficient arrangements. If cross-flooding fittings are provided in any such ship the fittings, shall, where practicable, be self-acting but in any case where controls to cross-flooding fittings are provided, they shall be capable of being operated from above the bulkhead deck. Such fittings together with their controls as well as the maximum heel before equalisation shall be such as will not endanger the safety of the ship. The cross-flooding fittings shall be capable of reducing the heel within 15 minutes, sufficiently to meet the requirements of sub-paragraph
(2)(
  1. c)of paragraph 2 of the Third Schedule to these Rules. ( b ) If the margin line may become submerged during the flooding assumed for the purposes of the calculation referred to in the Third Schedule to these Rules, the construction of the ship shall be such as will enable the master of the ship to ensure: (
  2. i)that the maximum angle of heel during any stage of such flooding will not be such as will endanger the safety of the ship; and (
  3. ii)that the margin line shall not be submerged in the final stage of flooding.
(4)( a ) There shall be provided by the owner in every such ship a document for the use of the master of the ship containing information as to the use of any cross-flooding fittings provided in the ship. ( b ) There shall be provided by the owner in every ship, other than ships of Classes IV, V and VI for the use of the master of the ship, the following additional information: (
  1. i)information necessary for the maintenance of sufficient intact stability under service conditions to enable the ship to withstand damage to the extent referred to in the Third Schedule to these Rules; and (
  2. ii)information as to the conditions of stability on which the calculations of heel have been based, together with a warning that excessive heeling might result should the ship sustain damage when in a less favourable condition. This additional information shall be included in the books required by Rule 9
(3)of these Rules. 12 Ballasting. 12.
(1)In every ship to which this Part applies, when ballasting with water is necessary, the water ballast shall not in general be carried in tanks intended for oil fuel. In ships in which it is not practicable to avoid putting water in oil fuel tanks, oily-water separator equipment to the satisfaction of the Minister shall be fitted, or an alternative means acceptable to the Minister shall be provided for disposing of the oily-water ballast.
(2)The provisions of this Rule are without prejudice to the provisions of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships in force. 13 Construction of watertight bulkheads, etc. 13.
(1)Every portion of the ship required by these Rules to be watertight shall be constructed in accordance with such of the requirements of the Fourth Schedule to these Rules as apply to it.
(2)All tanks forming part of the structure of the ship and used for the storage of oil fuel or other liquids including double bottoms, peak tanks, settling tanks and bunkers shall be of a design and construction adequate for that purpose. 14 Openings in watertight bulkheads, etc. 14.
(1)In every ship of Classes I, II and II (A) the number of openings in watertight bulkheads shall be reduced to the minimum compatible with the design and proper working of the ship and means shall be provided for closing these openings to the satisfaction of the Minister.
(2)Every tunnel above the double bottom, if any, in such a ship whether for access from the crew space to the machinery space, for piping or for any other purpose, which passes through such a bulkhead shall be watertight. The means of access to at least one end of such tunnel, if it may be used as a passage at sea, shall be through a trunkway extending watertight to a height sufficient to permit access above the margin line. The means of access to the other end of the tunnel shall be through a watertight door. No tunnel shall extend through the first subdivision bulkhead abaft the collision bulkhead.
(3)Within spaces containing the main and auxiliary propelling machinery including boilers serving the needs of propulsion and all permanent bunkers, not more than one doorway, apart from the doorway to shaft tunnels, may be fitted in each main transverse bulkhead. Where two or more shafts are fitted, the tunnels shall be connected by an intercommunicating passage. There shall be only one doorway between the machinery space and the tunnel spaces where one or two shafts are fitted and only two doorways where there are more than two shafts. All such doorways shall be located so as to have their sills as high as practicable.
(4)Doorways, manholes and access openings shall not be fitted in the collision bulkhead below the margin line of any such ship or in any other bulkhead which is required by these Rules to be watertight and which divides a cargo space from another cargo space or from a permanent or reserve bunker: provided that the Minister may permit any such ship to be fitted with doorways in bulkheads dividing two between-deck cargo spaces if he is satisfied that: ( a ) the doorways are necessary for the proper working of the ship; ( b ) the number of such doorways in the ship is the minimum compatible with the design and proper working of the ship, and they are fitted at the highest practicable level; and ( c ) the outboard vertical edges of such doorways are situated at a distance as far as practicable from the ship's shell plating and no case less than one-fifth of the breadth of the ship, such distance being measured at right angles to the centre line of the ship at the level of the deepest subdivision load waterline; provided also that in ships carrying goods vehicles and accompanying personnel doorways may be fitted in bulkheads dividing cargo spaces at any level, subject to compliance with Rule 19
(1)of these Rules.
(5)Bulkheads outside the spaces containing machinery which are required by these Rules to be watertight shall not be pierced by openings which are capable of being closed only by portable bolted plates.
(6)In every ship of Classes III to VI, inclusive, bulkheads required by these Rules to be watertight shall not be pierced by doorways, ventilation trunks or other similar openings.
(7)( a ) In every ship: (i) valves and cocks not forming part of a pipe system other than the self closing oil fuel drain valves required by Rule 64
(13)of these Rules shall not be fitted in any bulkhead or other division required by these Rules to be watertight. (
  1. ii)if any such bulkhead or other division is pierced by pipes, scuppers, electric cables or other similar fittings, provision shall be made which will ensure that its watertightness is not thereby impaired; (iii) valves which are fitted in piping systems in order to maintain the integrity of the watertight bulkheads in the event of damage, should be capable of being controlled manually at the valve, and from a position above the bulkhead deck; (
  2. iv)lead or other heat sensitive materials shall not be used in systems which penetrate watertight subdivision bulkheads or other watertight divisions where deterioration of such systems in the event of fire would impair the watertight integrity of the division unless measures which are acceptable to the Minister are taken to prevent the possibility of such deterioration; ( b ) The collision bulkhead of such a ship shall not be pierced below the margin line by more than one pipe, provided that if the forepeak in such a ship is divided to hold two different kinds of liquids the collision bulkhead may be pierced below the margin line by not more than two pipes if the Minister is satisfied that there is no practicable alternative to the fitting of such a second pipe and that having regard to the additional subdivision provided in the forepeak, the safety of the ship is maintained. Any pipe which pierces the collision bulkhead of such a ship shall be fitted with a screw-down valve capable of being operated from above the bulkhead deck, the valve chest being secured to the forward side of the collision bulkhead. 15 Means of closing openings in watertight bulkheads, etc. 15.
(1)In every ship of Classes I, II and II (A) efficient means shall be provided for closing and making watertight all openings in bulkheads and other divisions required by these Rules to be watertight.
(2)Every door fitted to any such opening shall be a sliding watertight door; provided that any door permitted by the Minister to be fitted in any bulkhead in accordance with Rule 14
(4)may be a hinged or rolling watertight door subject to the requirements of paragraph
(5)of this Rule.
(3)Sliding watertight doors may have a horizontal or vertical motion and shall be either: ( a ) hand operated; or ( b ) power operated, as well as hand operated.
(4)Hinged and rolling watertight doors fitted in accordance with paragraph
(2)of this Rule shall be fitted with catches, or similar quick action closing devices, capable of being worked from each side of the bulkhead in which the door is fitted.
(5)Any watertight door which is— ( a ) fitted in any bulkhead, not being a collision bulkhead which separates two cargo between deck spaces, or ( b ) fitted, pursuant to Rule 19
(1)in a watertight bulkhead at any level shall be capable of being opened and closed from a local position only and every hinged, rolling or sliding watertight door which is fitted in such a position shall be fitted with efficient locking arrangements.
(6)Every door required by these Rules to be watertight shall be capable of being secured by means other than bolts and of being closed by means other than by gravity. 16 Means of operating sliding watertight doors. 16.
(1)In every ship of Classes I, II or II (A) all sliding watertight doors, except sliding watertight doors which are fitted in accordance with paragraph
(4)of Rule 14 of these Rules shall be operated by power and shall be capable of being simultaneously closed from a single position situated on the navigating bridge.
(2)( a ) If a sliding watertight door is required by these Rules to be operated by power from a single position on the navigating bridge, the power system shall be so arranged that the door can also be operated by power at the door itself. The arrangement shall be such that the door will close automatically if opened at the door itself after being closed from the single position on the navigating bridge and will be capable of being kept closed at the door itself notwithstanding that an attempt may be made to open it from such single position. Handles for controlling the power system shall be provided at both sides of the bulkhead in which the door is situated and shall be so arranged that any person passing through the doorway is able to hold both handles in the open position simultaneously without being able to set the closing mechanism in operation accidentally. ( b ) Watertight doors shall be capable of closing as expeditiously as possible, but the rate of closing shall not be so rapid as to be a danger to persons passing through the opening, provided that the maximum period for closure in sub-paragraph 3 (a) of this Rule shall not be exceeded.
(3)( a ) In every ship of Classes I, II and II (A) there shall be at least two independent sources of power for opening and closing all sliding watertight doors which are required by these Rules to be operated by power, and each power source shall be sufficient to operate simultaneously all such doors in the ship. The power shall be controlled from a single position on the navigating bridge, and there shall be provided at such position suitable indicators for checking that each of the two sources of power is capable of giving the required service satisfactorily. The watertight doors shall be capable of being closed simultaneously from the navigating bridge in not more than 60 seconds. (b) Where the sources of power are hydraulic, there shall be two pumps each of which shall be capable of closing all watertight doors simultaneously in not more than 60 seconds. In addition, there shall be for the whole installation hydraulic accumulators of sufficient capacity to operate all such doors at least three times, that is to say from the open to the closed position, from the closed to the open position and from the open to the closed position. The fluid used shall be one which does not freeze at any temperature liable to be encountered by the ship during her service.
(4)Watertight door controls, including hydraulic piping and electric cables, shall be kept as close as practicable to the bulkhead in which the doors are fitted, in order to minimise the likelihood of them being involved in any damage which the ship may sustain. The positioning of watertight doors and their controls shall be such that if the ship sustains damage to the extent described in Paragraph 1
(3)(b) of the Third Schedule to these Rules, the operation of the watertight doors clear of the damaged portion of the ship is not impaired.
(5)Every sliding watertight door which is operated by power shall be provided with efficient hand-operating gear having an all-round crank motion, or some other movement providing the same guarantee of safety, capable of being operated on each side of the door itself and at an accessible position above the bulkhead deck,
(6)( a ) The time necessary for the complete closure of any door by means of hand-operating gear with the vessel upright shall not exceed 90 seconds. ( b ) The hand-operating gear shall be of such a design that the doors can be closed and opened from each of the required operating positions.
(7)The hand-operating gear for operating the sliding watertight doors in the machinery space from above the bulkhead deck shall be placed outside the machinery space.
(8)The means of operation of any watertight door, whether power operated or not, shall be capable of closing the door when the ship is listed to 15 degrees either way. 17 Watertight doors: signals and communications. 17.
(1)Every sliding watertight door fitted in a ship of Class I, II or II (A) shall be connected with an indicator at each position from which the door may be closed, other than at the door itself, showing when the door is open and when it is closed.
(2)There shall be provided in connection with every such door which is operated by power a means of giving an audible warning signal at the door itself when the door is about to be closed. The arrangement shall be such that one movement of the operating handle at the position from which the door is about to be closed will be sufficient to actuate the signal and to close the door, the signal preceding the movement of the door by an interval of about 10 seconds in order to allow the movement of persons and articles away from the door. The signal shall continue to operate until the door is completely closed. The audible warning signal shall be supplemented with an intermittent visual warning signal in any space where the noise level exceeds 85dB (A). 18 Construction and testing of watertight doors. 18.
(1)Every door required by these Rules to be watertight shall be of such design, material and construction as will maintain the integrity of the watertight bulkhead in which it is fitted. Any such door shall, together with its frame, be made of cast or mild steel.
(2)Every sliding watertight door shall be fitted with rubbing faces of brass or similar material which may be fitted either on the door itself or on the door frame, and which, if they are less than one inch in width, shall be fitted in recesses.
(3)If screw gear is used for operating such a door, the screw and nut shall be of suitable metals which are resistant to corrosion.
(4)The frame of every vertically sliding watertight door shall have no groove at the bottom thereof in which dirt may lodge. The bottom of such a frame, if it is of skeleton form, shall be so arranged that dirt cannot lodge therein. The bottom edge of every such door shall be tapered or bevelled.
(5)Every vertically sliding watertight door which is operated by power shall be so designed and fitted that, if the power supply ceases, there shall be no danger of the door dropping.
(6)Every horizontally sliding watertight door shall be so installed as to prevent its moving if the ship rolls, and if necessary a clip or other suitable device shall be provided for that purpose. The device shall not interfere with the closing of the door when the door is required to be closed.
(7)The frame of every watertight door shall be properly fitted to the bulkhead in which the door is situated, and the jointing material between the frame and the bulkhead shall be of a type which will not deteriorate or be injured by heat.
(8)Every watertight door shall be tested by water pressure to a head of water measured from the bottom of the door up to the bulkhead deck or the freeboard deck whichever is higher in way of the bulkhead to which the door is to be fitted, but in no case should the test head be less than 6 metres for sliding doors or less than 3 metres for hinged or rolling doors. 19 Ships carrying goods vehicles and accompanying personnel. 19.
(1)( a ) In every ship designed or adapted for the carriage of goods vehicles and accompanying personnel, hinged, rolling or sliding watertight doors may be fitted at any level in watertight bulkheads dividing cargo spaces intended for such vehicles, if the total number of passengers, including the personnel accompanying the goods vehicles, which the ship is intended to carry does not exceed ; where: A = the total deck area in square metres available in any spaces for the stowage of goods vehicles which has a clear height of not less than 4 metres and has a clear height at the entrance or access of not less than 4 metres; provided that in calculating A any part of any space which does not have a clear height of 4 metres and any part of space, of whatever height, which does not have a clear height at the entrance or access of 4 metres shall be excluded from the calculation. ( b ) Every watertight door fitted in accordance with this Rule shall comply with the requirements of paragraph
(5)of Rule 15 of these Rules and every such door shall be connected with an indicator on the navigating bridge showing when the door is closed and all the door fastenings are secured.
(2)In applying paragraph 1
(2)(a) of the Third Schedule to these Rules for the worst operating condition, the permeability for cargo spaces used for the stowage of goods vehicles and containers shall be derived by calculation in which the goods vehicles or containers shall be assumed to be non-watertight and their permeability taken as
  1. For ships which are dedicated to a particular trade or trades the actual value of permeability for goods vehicles and containers may be applied, if the Minister so permits. In no case shall the permeability of the cargo spaces in which the goods vehicles and containers are carried be taken as less than
  2. 20 Openings in the shell plating below the margin line. 20.
(1)The number of sidescuttles, scuppers, sanitary discharges and other openings in the shell below the margin line shall be the minimum which, in the opinion of the Minister, is compatible with the design and proper working of the ship.
(2)The arrangements for closing every such opening below the margin line shall be consistent with its intended purpose and shall be such as will ensure watertightness. Sidescuttles.
(3)( a ) Sidescuttles below the margin line shall be of a non-opening type and be constructed to British Standards specification BS Ma 24: October 1974, or an equivalent standard acceptable to the minister. ( b ) In every ship of Classes I, II, II (A) and III which is marked with a summer load line no sidescuttles shall be fitted in a between-decks such that its sill will be below a line drawn parallel to the freeboard deck at its side which has its lowest point either: (
  1. i)at a distance equal to 2.5 per cent of the breadth of the ship measured vertically above the summer load waterline; or (
  2. ii)500 millimetres above the summer load waterline; whichever is the greater. In every ship of Classes II A and III which is not marked with a summer load line no sidescuttle shall be fitted in a between-decks such that its sill will be below a line drawn parallel to the bulkhead deck at its side which has its lowest point at a distance equal to 2.5 per cent of the breadth of the ship measured vertically above the deepest subdivision load waterline. ( c ) In every ship of Class IV, V and VI no sidescuttle shall be fitted such that its sill will be below a line drawn parallel to the bulkhead deck at its side and which has its lowest point at a distance of 150 millimetres above the deepest subdivision load waterline. ( d ) Each sidescuttle below the margin line shall be fitted with an efficiently hinged deadlight permanently attached so that it can be readily and effectively closed and secured watertight. ( e ) Sidescuttles shall not be fitted below the margin line to any space appropriated solely for the carriage of cargo. If sidescuttles are fitted below the margin line to spaces appropriated to carry either cargo or passengers, their deadlights shall be fitted with approved locking arrangements. Inlets and discharges.
(4)( a ) Each inlet and discharge led through the shell below the margin line shall be fitted with efficient and readily accessible means for preventing the accidental admission of water into the ship. Lead or other heat-sensitive materials shall not be used for pipes fitted outboard of shell valves in inlets or discharges or in any other place where the deterioration of such pipes in the event of fire would give rise to the danger of flooding. ( b ) Each discharge led through the shell from any space below the margin line, not being a discharge in connection with machinery, shall be provided with: (
  1. i)one automatic non-return valve fitted at the shell of the ship and having positive means of closure from a position or positions above the bulkhead deck or, in a ship which is marked with a summer load line, from a position or positions above the bulkhead deck or the freeboard deck, whichever is the higher. Such positions shall be readily accessible at all times under service conditions. The means of closure shall be provided with an indicator showing whether the valve is open or closed; or (
  2. ii)two automatic non-return valves having no positive means of closure where the vertical distance from the inboard end of the discharge pipe in which those valves are fitted to the summer load waterline exceeds O1L, (where L is the length of the ship as defined in the Merchant Shipping (Load Lines) (Length of Ship) Regulations, 1968 ( S.I. No. 208 of 1968 ); in any ship which is not marked with a summer load waterline and vertical distance shall be measured to the ships deepest sub-division load waterline; one such valve shall be situated as close to the ship's shell as practicable and substantially connected thereto and the inboard valve shall where practicable be fitted above the deepest load waterline; where that is not practicable a locally controlled sluice valve interposed between them two automatic non-return valves shall be fitted; the inboard valve shall in every case be in such a position that it will at all times under service conditions be readily accessible for examination. ( c ) In every ship which is marked with a summer load line every discharge led through the shell below the margin line from any space above the margin line, other than an enclosed cargo space situated on the bulkhead deck, being a space below the freeboard deck or from within any enclosed superstructure or from within any deckhouse on the freeboard deck which is fitted with doors, not being a discharge in connection with machinery, shall be fitted with either: (
  3. i)one automatic non-return valve fitted in compliance with the requirements of sub-paragraph (
  4. b)(i); or (
  5. ii)two automatic non-return valves fitted in compliance with the requirements of sub-paragraph (
  6. b)(ii); or (iii) one automatic non-return valve having no positive means of closure in any ship where the vertical distance from the summer load waterline to the inboard end of the discharge pipe exceeds O2L, (where L is the length of the ship as defined in the Merchant Shipping (Load Lines) (Length of Ship) Regulations, 1968). Such valve shall be situated as close to the ship's shell as practicable and substantially connected thereto. ( d ) In every ship which is marked with a summer load line efficient drainage from any enclosed cargo space on the bulkhead decks shall be provided. Every discharge shall be in compliance with the requirements of sub-paragraph (
  7. b)(i), (
  8. b)(
  9. ii)or (
  10. c)(iii) of this Rule provided that where the freeboard to the bulkhead deck is such that the deck edge is immersed when the ship heels 5 degrees either way, other arrangements shall be provided to drain such spaces which shall be to the satisfaction of the Minister, provided that the Minister may permit the means of drainage to be dispensed with in any particular compartment of any ship if he is satisfied that by reason of the size or internal subdivision of these spaces, the safety of the ship is not thereby impaired. ( e ) In every ship which is marked with a summer load line every scupper and discharge originating at any level above those described in sub-paragraphs (
  11. c)and (
  12. d)of this Rule and penetrating the shell of the ship either— (
  13. i)more than 450 millimetres below the freeboard deck; or (
  14. ii)less than 600 millimetres above the summer load waterline shall be equipped with an automatic non-return valve situated as close to the ship's shell as practicable and substantially connected thereto: provided that this sub-paragraph shall not apply: ( aa ) where the scupper or discharge pipe is fitted with means for preventing water from passing inboard in accordance with the provisions of sub-paragraphs (
  15. b)(
  16. i)and (ii); or ( bb ) in any case in which the piping of the scupper, or discharge pipe is of adequately increased thickness. ( f ) All cocks and valves attached to inlets or discharges, other than inlets or discharges connected with machinery, the failure of which may give rise to the danger of flooding, shall be made of steel, bronze or other equivalent material. ( g ) Inlets and discharges connected with main or auxiliary machinery shall be fitted with cocks or valves between the pipes and the shell of the ship or between the pipes and a box attached to the shell. The controls to such cocks and valves or of any bilge injections system shall be readily accessible at all times under service conditions and fitted with indicators to show whether the cock or valve is open or closed. All such cocks or valves attached to such inlets or discharges and all fittings outboard thereof shall be made of steel, bronze or other equivalent material. If made of steel, such cocks and valves shall be protected against corrosion. ( h ) Discharge pipes led through the shell below the margin line of any ship of Classes I, II, II (A) and III shall not be fitted in a direct line between the outboard opening and the connection with a deck, water closet or other similar fitting, but shall be arranged with bends or elbows of substantial metal other than cast iron or lead. ( i ) All discharge pipes led through the shell below the margin line and the valves relating thereto shall be protected from damage. ( j ) Efficient means shall be provided from the drainage of all watertight decks below the margin line and any drainage pipes shall be so fitted with valves or otherwise arranged as to avoid the danger of water passing from a damaged to an undamaged compartment. ( k ) The inboard opening of every rubbish-shoot and other similar shoot shall be fitted with an efficient watertight cover, and, if such opening is below the margin line, it shall also be fitted with an automatic non-return valve in the shoot in a readily accessible position above the ship's deepest subdivision load waterline. The valve shall be of the horizontal balanced type, and shall normally be kept closed and provided with local means for securing it in a closed position. ( l ) (
  17. i)Each gangway port and cargo port fitted in the shell below the margin line shall be provided with a door or doors so fitted and designed as to ensure watertightness and structural integrity commensurate with the surrounding shell. (
  18. ii)In every ship which is marked with a summer load line no such gangway port or cargo port below the freeboard deck shall, unless the Minister otherwise permits, be so situated that the lower edge of the port or opening will be below a line drawn parallel to the freeboard deck at side and having as its lowest point the waterline corresponding with the upper edge of the uppermost load line. In any ship which is not marked with a summer load line the lower edge of the port or opening shall in no case be below the deepest subdivision load waterline.
(5)The Minister may exempt any ship of Classes IV to VI, inclusive from the requirements of paragraph
(4)of this Rule to the extent that he is satisfied that compliance therewith is unreasonable or impracticable in the circumstances. 21 Side and other openings above the margin line. 21.
(1)Sidescuttles, windows, gangway ports, cargo ports, bunkering ports and other openings in the shell above the margin line and their means of closing shall be of efficient design and construction and of sufficient strength having regard to the spaces in which they are fitted and to their position relative to the deepest subdivision load waterline and to the intended service of the ship. All sidescuttles and windows shall be to British Standards specification Numbers BS MA 24: October 1974, BS MA 25: October 1973 as amended by AMD 2060 Amendment Slip No. 1 published 30th July 1976 to BS MA 25: 1973, or an equivalent standard acceptable to the Minister.
(2)Efficiently hinged deadlights, which can be easily closed and secured watertight shall be provided for all sidescuttles to spaces below the first deck above the bulkhead deck and in a ship which is marked with a summer load line, to all sidescuttles in an enclosed superstructure.
(3)In every ship which is marked with a summer load line, each discharge led through the shell above the margin line from a space below the freeboard deck or from within any enclosed superstructure or from within any deckhouse on the freeboard deck which is fitted with weathertight doors shall be fitted in compliance with the requirements of Rule 20
(4)(
  1. b)(i), (
  2. ii)or (
  3. c)(iii) of these Rules with efficient means for preventing water from passing inboard. 22 Markings of doors, values and mechanisms. 22. All doors valves and mechanisms connected with the damage control and watertight integrity of the ship shall be suitably marked to ensure that they may be properly used to provide maximum safety. 23 Weather desk. 23. The bulkhead deck or a deck above the bulkhead shall be weathertight. All openings in an exposed weathertight deck shall have coamings of adequate height and strength and shall be provided with efficient and rapid means of closing so as to make them weathertight. Freeing ports, open rails and scuppers shall be fitted as necessary for rapidly clearing the weather deck of water under all weather conditions. 24 Partial subdivision above the margin line. 24. All reasonable and practicable measures shall be taken to limit where necessary the entry and spread of water above the bulkhead deck, such measures may include partial bulk heads or webs. Where such partial watertight bulkheads and webs are fitted on the bulkhead deck, above or in the immediate vicinity of main subdivision bulkheads, they shall have watertight shell and bulkhead deck connections so as to restrict the flow of water along the deck when the ship is heeled in a damaged condition. Where such partial watertight bulkheads do not coincide with the bulkheads below, the bulkhead deck between shall be made effectively watertight. 25 Subdivision load lines. 25.
(1)Every ship shall be marked on its side amidships with the subdivision load lines assigned to it by the Minister. The marks shall consist of horizontal lines 25 millimetres in breadth and 230 millimetres in length for any ship to which the Merchant Shipping (Load Lines) Act, 1968 (No. 17 of 1968),applies and 300 millimetres in length for any other ship. The marks shall be painted in white or yellow if the background is dark or in black if the background is light and, if the sides of the ship are of metal, they shall be cut in centre punched or indicated by welded beads; if the sides of the ship are of wood, the marks shall be cut into the planking to a depth of not less than 3 millimetres; if the sides are of other materials to which the foregoing methods of marking cannot effectively be applied, the marks shall be permanently affixed to the sides of the ship by bonding or some other effective method.
(2)The subdivision load lines shall be identified with the letter C, and, in ships of Classes I and II, with consecutive numbers beginning from the deepest subdivision load line which shall be marked C.1. In ships of Classes II (A) to VI inclusive; ( a ) if there is only one subdivision load line, it shall be identified with the letter C; ( b ) if there is more than one subdivision load line, the subdivision load lines shall be identified with the letter C and with consecutive letters beginning from the deepest subdivision load line, which shall be marked CA. The identifying letters and numerals shall in every case be painted and cut in or centre punched or indicated by welded beads or otherwise marked as appropriate, on the sides of the ship in the same manner as the lines to which they relate.
(3)Ships which are assigned freeboards and are required to be marked with load lines under the Merchant Shipping (Load Line) Rules, 1968 ( S.I. No. 205 of 1968 ) shall be marked as follows:— ( a ) where the lowest of the ordinary load lines is higher on the ship's side than the deepest subdivision load line, the latter shall form part of the same marking, the vertical line of the grid being extended downwards as necessary to reach the lowest subdivision load line. The subdivision load line or lines shall appear on the after side of the bertical line; ( b ) where the deepest subdivision load line coincides or nearly coincides with the fresh water line, the subdivision marking C.1 or C may be indicated on the forward side of the grid; ( c ) where an "all seasons" freeboard is assigned and the deepest subdivision load line coincides with the horizontal line intersecting the load line mark, a vertical line shall be marked extending downwards from the fresh water load line to reach the subdivision load line marked C.1 or C on the after side of the vertical line. 26 Exhibition of damage control plans.
  1. There shall be permanently exhibited, for the information of the officer in charge of the ship, plans showing clearly for each level the boundaries of the watertight compartments, the openings therein, the means of closing such openings and the position of the controls and the arrangements for the correction of any list due to flooding. In addition, booklets containing such information shall be made available by the owner for the use of the officers of the ship. PART II B—SHIPS NOT REQUIRED TO COMPLY WITH PART IIA 27 Application of Part II B.
  2. This Part of these Rules applies to every open or partially decked ship of Class V and to every ship of Class VI carrying less than 101 passengers. 28 Stability.
  3. The stability of every ship shall be determined to the satisfaction of the Minister. Where hydorstatic data is available the vessel shall be inclined and the elements of her stability determined. Where no hydrostatic data is available the inclining test will not be required to be carried out but a test will be required to determine the angle of heel which will occur with two-thirds of the passengers on one side of the ship and one-third on the other side, which shall not normally exceed seven degrees. 29 Openings in the sides of the ship. 29.
(1)Efficinet means shall be provided for preventing the accidental admission of water into any ship through any openings in the sides of the ship.
(2)Every sidescuttle shall be of the non-opening type and shall be watertight and of sufficient strength having regard to its position in the ship. PART III—BILGE PUMPING ARRANGEMENTS 30 Application of Part III. 30. This Part of these Rules applies to every ship to which these Rules apply provided that a ship which complies with the requirements of IMO Resolution A. 265 (VIII) specified in the proviso to Rule 5 of these Rules need not comply with Rule 32
(1)of these Rules if it complies with Regulation 19 (
  1. b)(
  2. i)and (
  3. ii)of that Resolution. 31 General. 31.
(1)Except in the case of open ships of Classes V and VI not exceeding 12 metres in length, and not proceeding on voyages to a point more than 3 miles from the starting point, every shop to which these Rules apply shall be provided with an efficient pumping plant capable of pumping from and draining any watertight compartment in the ship, other than a space permanently appropriated for the carriage of fresh water, water ballast or oil and for which other efficient means of pumping or drainage is provided, under all conditions likely to arise in practice after a casualty, whether or not the ship remains upright. Wind suctions shall be provided if necessary for that purpose. Efficient arrangements shall be provided whereby water in any watertight compartment may find its way to the suction pipes. Efficient means shall be provided for draining water from all insulated holds and insulated between decks in such a ship; provided that the Minsiter may allow the provision for drainage to be omitted in a particular compartment if he is satisfied: ( a ) that having regard to the calculations made in accordance with the conditions set out in the Third Schedule to these Rules, the safety of the ship will not thereby be impaired; and ( b ) that the provision of drainage would otherwise be undesirable.
(2)Sanitary, ballast and general service pumps having a capacity in accordance with Rule 35
(3)may be accepted as independent power pumps if fitted with necessary connections to the bilge pump system. 32 Number and type of bilge pumps: ships of Classes I and II. 32.
(1)Every ship of Classes I and II shall be provided with power pumps connected to the bilge main in accordance with the following table: Number of Pumps Criterion Numeral (Less than 30) Criterion Numeral (30 and over) Main engine pump (which may be replaced by one independent power pump) 1 1 Independent power pumps 2 3
(2)Such pumps shall be arranged as follows: ( a ) one of the pumps shall be an efficient emergency pump of a submersible type having its source of power and the necessary controls situated above the ship's bulkhead deck. Such pump and its source of power shall not be installed forward of the collision bulkhead or nearer to the side of the ship than one-fifth of the breadth of the ship measured at right angles to the centre line of the ship at the level of the deepest subdivision load waterline; or ( b ) the power pumps in the ship and their sources of power shall be so disposed throughout the ship's length that under any condition of flooding which the ship is required to withstand at least one such pump in an undamaged watertight compartment will be available. 33 Number and type of bilge pumps: ships of Classes II (A) and III. 33.
(1)Every ship of Classes II (A) and III shall be provided with bilge pumps in accordance with the following table: Length of Ship in Metres Number of Pumps Main Engine Pump* Independent Power Pumps Hand Pumps† Under 15 1 — One of the lever type for each watertight compartment or one of the crank type. 15 and under 30.5 1 1 One of the lever type for each watertight compartment or one of the crank type. 30.5 and under 76 1 1 One of the crank type. 76 and over 1 2 — *The main engine pump may be replaced by one independent power pump. †The hand pumps specified in this column may be replaced by one independent power pump.
(2)In every such ship of 76 metres in length or over and in every such ship of under 76 metres in length in which a hand pump is replaced by an independent power pump, Rule 32
(2)of these Rules shall apply to such a ship as it applies to ships of Classes I and II. 34 Number and type of bilge pumps, ect.: ships of Classes IV to VI inclusive. 34.
(1)Every ship of Class IV shall be provided with a power bilge pump, which may be worked by the ship's main engine and, in addition, a hand pump other than a hand pump of the lever type.
(2)Every ship of Classes V and VI shall be provided with bilge pumps and means for bailing as follows: ( a ) every such ship exceeding 18 metres in length shall be provided with a power pump, which may be worked by the main engine and, in addition, a hand pump other than a hand pump of the lever type; ( b ) every such ship, being a decked ship not exceeding 18 metres in length, shall be provided with a hand pump other than a hand pump of the lever type; ( c ) every such ship, being a partially decked or open ship not exceeding 18 metres in length, shall be provided with a hand pump and, in addition, two bailers or one bailer and one bucket. ( d ) every such ship, being an open ship exceeding 12 metres in length but not exceeding 18 metres in length, shall be provided with a hand pump and, in addition, two bailers or one bailer and one bucket. ( e ) every ship of Classes V and VI, being an open ship not exceeding 12 metres in length, and proceeding beyond 3 miles from the starting point of her voyage, shall be provided with a hand pump and, in addition, two bailers or one bailer and one bucket; ( f ) every ship of Classes V and VI being an open ship not exceeding 12 metres in length, and not proceeding on voyages more than 3 miles from the starting point, shall be provided with two bailers or one bailer and one bucket. The Minister may permit other arrangements where the conditions of service such as the depth of water in which the ship will ply make the application of these requirements unreasonable. 35 Requirements for bilge pumps and bilge suctions. 35.
(1)Power bilge pumps fitted in any ship to which these Rules apply, shall where practicable be placed in separate watertight compartments so arranged or situated as not to be readily flooded by the same damage, and if the machinery essential for propulsion is in two or more watertight compartments the bilge pumps there available shall be distributed through such compartments as far as possible.
(2)Every bilge pump provided in compliance with these Rules shall be self-priming unless efficient means of priming are provided. Every such pump, other than a hand pump of the lever type and a pump provided for peak compartments only, shall, whether operated by hand or by power, be so arranged as to be capable of drawing water from any space required by Rule 31 of these Rules to be drained.
(3)Every independent power bilge pump shall be capable of giving a speed of water of not less than 2 metres per second through the ship's main bilge pipe when its diameter is that determined by Rule 37
(1)of these Rules. Every such independent power bilge pump shall have a direct suction from the space in which it is situated, provided that not more than two direct suctions shall be required in any one space. Every such suction shall be of a diameter not less than that of the ship's main bilge pipe. The direct suctions in the ship's machinery space shall be so arranged that water may be pumped from each side of the space through direct suctions to independent power bilge pumps.
(4)One of the sea water pumps circulating each main engine shall be fitted with direct suction connections, which shall be provided with non-return valves, to the lowest drainage level in the ship's machinery space, or as near thereto as will satisfy the Minister. Such connections in steamships shall be of a diameter at least two-thirds of that of the main circulating pump inlet, and in motor ships of the same diameter as the main seawater circulating pump inlet. Where in the opinion of the Minister any main circulating pump is not suitable for this purpose, a direct emergency bilge suction shall be led from the largest available independent power driven pump to the drainage level of the machinery space; the suction shall be of the same diameter as the main inlet of the pump used. The capacity of the pump so connected shall exceed that of a required bilge pump by an amount satisfactory to the Minister. The open end of such suctions or the strainer, if any, attached thereto shall be accessible for clearing. The spindles of the ship's main sea inlet and of the direct suction valves shall extend well above the engine room platform.
(5)The hand bilge pumps shall be workable from above the ship's bulkhead deck, if any, and shall be so arranged that the bucket and tail valve can be withdrawn for examination and overhaul under flooding conditions. 36 Arrangement of bilge pipes. 36.
(1)In every ship all bilge suction pipes up to the connection to the pumps shall be independent of other piping.
(2)All bilge pipes used in or under fuel storage tanks or in boiler or machinery spaces, including spaces in which oil-settling tanks or oil fuel pumping units are situated, shall be of steel or other suitable material.
(3)Bilge suction pipes shall not be led through oil tank unless the pipes are enclosed in an oiltight trunkway. Such pipes shall not be led through double bottom tanks. Where bilge suction pipes pass through deep ballast water tanks, such pipes should be of heavy guage and the number of pipe joints kept to a minimum. The pipes shall be led above the line of the double bottom.
(4)Such pipes shall be made flanged joints and shall be thoroughly secured in position and protected where necessary against the risk of damage. Efficient expansion joints or bends shall be provided in each line of pipe, and where a connection is made at a bulkhead or elsewhere with a lead bend the radius of each bend and the distance between the axes of the straight parts of the pipes shall be not less than three times the diameter of the pipe and the length of any bend shall be not less than eight times that diameter.
(5)The bilge pumping arrangements for cargo spaces containing flammable or toxic liquids shall be designed so that inadvertent pumping of such liquids through the main bilge system or any other system connected to a pump located in a machinery space can be prevented. Additional means of draining such cargo spaces shall be provided if the Minister considers their provision necessary taking into consideration the quality characteristics of the liquids and their location. 37 Diameter of bilge suction pipes. 37.
(1)Subject to the provisions of paragraphs
(2)and
(3)of this Rule, in every ship of Classes I and III inclusive, and in every ship of Classes IV to VI inclusive, which is required by Rule 34 of these Rules to be provided with a pump the internal diameter of main and branch bilge suction pipes shall be determined to the nearest standard size calculated according to the following formulae: where: dm=25+[1.68 √L(B+D)] db=25+[2.15 √I(B+D)] where dm=internal diameter of the main bilge suction pipes in millimetres. db=internal diameter of the branch bilge suction pipes in millimetres. L= length of ship in metres as defined in Rule 1. B= breadth of ship in metres as defined in Rule 1. D= moulded depth of ship amidships at bulkhead deck in metres. I= length of compartment in metres.
(2)No main bilge suction pipe in any ship of Classes I to III inclusive, shall be less than 63 millimetres in bore, and no branch suction pipe shall be less than 50 millimetres or need be more than 100 millimetres in bore.
(3)No bilge suction pipe in any ship of Classes IV to VI inclusive, which is required by Rule 34 of these Rules to be provided with a pump, shall be less than 32 millimetres in bore. 38 Precautions against flooding trhough bilge pipes. 38.
(1)In every ship to which Part II A of these Rules applies the bilge and ballast pumping systems shall be so arranged as to prevent water passing from the sea or from water ballast spaces into the ship's cargo spaces or into any part of the machinery space or from one watertight compartment in the ship to another. The bilge connection to any pump which effects suction from the sea or from water ballast spaces shall be made by means of either a non-return valve or a cock which cannot be opened at the same time to the bilges and to the sea or to the bilges and the water ballast spaces. Valves in bilge distribution boxes shall be of a non-return type. An arrangement of lock-up valves or of blank flanges shall be provided to prevent any deep tank in such a ship being inadvertently run up from the sea when it contains cargo or pumped out through a bilge pipe when it contains water ballast, and instructions for the working of such arrangements shall be conspicuously displayed nearby.
(2)Provision shall be made to prevent the flooding of any watertight compartment served by a bilge suction pipe in the event of the pipe being severed or otherwise damaged in any other watertight compartment through collision or grounding. Where any part of such a pipe is situated nearer to the side of the ship than one-fifth of the breadth of the ship such distance being measured at right angles to the centre line of the ship at the level of the deepest subdivision load waterline, or in any duct keel, a non-return valve shall be fitted to the pipe in the watertight compartment containing the open end of the pipe.
(3)In every ship of Classes I to III inclusive, the bilge main shall not be situated nearer to the ship's side than one-fifth of the breadth of the ship such distance being measured at right angles to the centre line of the ship at the level of the deepest subdivision load waterline, and where any bilge pump or its pipe connecting it to the bilge main is not so situated the arrangements shall be such that damage to the ship's side penetrating to the extent of one-fifth of the ship's breadth measured as described in this paragraph shall not put the other bilge pumping arrangements out of action. 39 Bilge valves, cocks, etc. 39.
(1)In every ship to which Part IIA of these Rules applies all distribution boxes, valves and cocks fitted in connection with the bilge pumping arrangements shall be in positions which are accessible at all times in ordinary circumstances and shall be so arranged that in the event of flooding, one of the bilge pumps may operate on any watertight compartment in the ship. If in any such ship there is only one system of pipes common to all such pumps, the necessary valves or cocks for controlling the bilge suctions shall be capable of being operated from above the ship's bulkhead deck. If an emergency bilge pumping system is provided in addition to the main bilge pumping system it shall be independent of the main system and shall be so arranged that a pump is capable of being operated on any watertight compartment under flooding conditions; in that case the cocks and valves necessary for the operation of the emergency system shall be capable of being operated from above the bulkhead deck. Provided that in any ship of Class II(A] or Class III of under 30.5 metres in length provided with a hand pump of the lever type for each watertight compartment in accordance with the provisions of Rule 33
(1)of these Rules, the valves and cocks on the bilge main for controlling the bilge suctions shall not be required to be capable of being operated from above the ship's bulkhead deck if they are in the same compartment as a power pump.
(2)Any remote operating system for bilge suction valves or cocks shall be led as directly as possible. Every such operating system passing through a cargo space shall be protected against damage in such a space.
(3)Every valve or cock which is required by this Rule to be operated from above the bulkhead deck shall have its control at its place of operation clearly marked to show the purpose it serves and how it may be opened and closed and shall be provided with a means to indicate when it is open and when it is closed. 40 Bilge mud boxes and strum boxes.
  1. Bilge suctions in the machinery space of every ship shall be led from readily accessible mud boxes placed wherever practicable above the level of the working floor of such space. The boxes shall have straight tailpipes to the bilges and covers secured in such a manner as will permit them to be readily opened and closed. The suction ends in hold spaces and tunnel wells shall be enclosed in strum boxes having perforations approximately 10 millimetres in diameter, and the combined area of such perforations shall be not less than twice that of the end of the suction pipe. Strum boxes shall be so constructed that they can be cleared without breaking any joint of the suction pipe. 41 Sounding pipes.
  2. In every ship to which Part II A of these Rules applies all tanks forming part of the structure of the ship and all watertight compartments, not being part of the machinery space, shall be provided with efficient sounding arrangements which shall be protected where necessary against damage. Where such arrangements consist of sounding pipes, a thick steel doubling plate shall be securely fixed below each sounding pipe for the sounding rod to strike upon. All such sounding pipes shall extend to positions above the ship's bulkhead deck which shall at all times be readily accessible. Sounding pipes for bilges, cofferdams and double bottom tanks, being bilges, cofferdams and tanks situated in the machinery space, shall so extend unless the upper ends of the pipes are accessible in ordinary circumstances and are furnished with cocks having parallel plugs with permanently secured handles so loaded that on being released they automatically close the cocks. Sounding pipes for the bilges of insulated holes shall be insulated and not less than 63 millimetres in diameter. PART IV—ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT AND INSTALLATIONS. 42 Application of Part IV.
  3. This Part of these Rules applies to every ship to which these Rules apply. 43 General. 43.
(1)The electrical equipment and installations in every ship shall be such that: ( a ) all electrical auxiliary services necessary for maintaining the ship in normal operational and habitable condition will be ensured without recourse to the emergency source of electrical power; and ( b ) the electrical services essential for safety will be ensured under emergency conditions.
(2)The electrical equipment and installations, including any electrical means of propulsion, shall be such that the ship and all persons on board are protected against electrical hazards. The electrical equipment and installations shall comply with the requirements specified in a Marine Notice. 44 Main source of electrical power and main switchboards: ships of classes I and III inclusive. 44.
(1)In every ship of Classes I to III inclusive a main source of electrical power shall be provided of sufficient capacity to supply all the services referred to in Rules 43
(1)(
  1. a)and (
  2. b)of these Rules. The main source of electrical power shall be arranged so that such services can be maintained regardless of the speed and direction of rotation of the propulsion machinery or shafting. The main source of electrical power shall consist of at least two generating sets. Arrangements shall be made which will safeguard the main generating sets and main switchboards from being rendered inoperative in the event of the partial flooding of the machinery space through leakage from a damaged compartment or otherwise.
(2)The arrangement of the generating sets required by paragraph
(1)of this Rule shall be such that with any one of the sets out of service: ( a ) normal operational conditions of propulsion and safety of the ship and minimum comfortable conditions of habitability including those for cooking, heating, domestic refrigeration, mechanical ventilation, sanitary and fresh water can be maintained; and ( b ) from a dead ship condition, the remaining sets are capable of providing the electrical services necessary to start the main propulsion plant. The emergency source of electrical power may be used for this purpose if it is capable of simultaneously supplying the emergency supplies required by these Rules or it is capable of supplying such services when combined with any other source of electrical power.
(3)( a ) Load shedding or other equivalent arrangements shall be provided to protect the generators required by paragraph
(1)of this Rule against sustained overload. ( b ) Where two or more generating sets may be in operation at the same time for maintaining the auxiliary services essential for the propulsion or safety of the ship, provision shall be made for the sets to operate in parallel.
(4)Any transforming equipment supplying an electrical system referred to in this Rule shall be arranged to ensure the same continuity of supply as that required for generating sets by this Rule.
(5)In any ship with only one main generating station the main switchboard shall be located in the same space as the main generating sets. Where there is more than one main generating station and only one main switchboard, that switchboard shall be located in the same space as one of the main generating stations. Where other essential features of the ship render the application of this requirement impracticable the Minister may permit the provision of equivalent arrangements. For the purpose of this paragraph an environmental enclosure for the main switchboard, such as a machinery control room fitted within the main boundary of the space, does not provide separation between the generating sets and switchboards.
(6)The main busbars shall be subdivided in every ship which has a total installed electrical power of the main generating sets in excess of 3 megawatts. Each section of the busbars shall be interconnected by removable links or other suitable means such that the main generating sets and any supplies to duplicated services which are directly connected to the busbars are, so far as is practicable, equally divided between the sections. The Minister may permit other arrangements which provide equivalent system redundancy. 45 Lighting systems. 45. In every ship:
(1)The main source of electrical power shall be capable of illuminating any part of the ship normally accessible to and used by the passengers or the crew.
(2)Emergency electrical lighting provided in accordance with these Rules shall be arranged so that a fire or other casualty in spaces containing the emergency source of electrical power, the associated transforming equipment, if any, the emergency switchboard and the emergency lighting switchboard will not render inoperative the main electric lighting system required by paragraph
(1)of this Rule.
(3)Lighting fittings shall be arranged to prevent rises in temperature which would be injurious to the fitting or the electric wiring or which would result in a risk of fire. 46 Emergency and transitional source of electrical power and emergency switchboards: ships of Classes I, II and II (A). 46.
(1)In every ship of Classes I, II and II (A) there shall be provided a self contained emergency source of electrical power which shall be so designed and arranged that it will operate at full rated power when the ship is listed 22.5 degrees and when the trim of the ship is 10 degrees from an even keel or any combination of heel and trim within these limits.
(2)The emergency source of electrical power, the associated transforming equipment, any transitional source of emergency electrical power required by paragraph
(4)(c) of this Rule, the emergency switchboard and the emergency lighting switchboard shall all be: ( a ) located above the uppermost continuous deck; ( b ) readily accessible from the open deck; ( c ) located aft of the collision bulkhead or its extension above the bulkhead deck when fitted above that deck; ( d ) so arranged that a fire or other casualty in the spaces containing the main source of electrical power, the associated transforming equipment, the main switchboard or in any machinery space of Category A will not interfere with the supply, control and distribution of emergency electrical supplies; and ( e ) located where practicable in a space which is not contiguous to the boundaries of a machinery space of Category A or any other space containing the main source of electrical power, the main switchboard or any associated transforming equipment.
(3)The emergency source of electrical power shall be a generating set complying with the requirements of paragraph
(4)of this Rule or an accumulator battery complying with the requirements of paragraph
(6)of this Rule.
(4)Where the emergency source of electrical power is a generator it shall: ( a ) be driven by internal combustion machinery with an independent fuel supply, having a flash point of not less than 43°C (Closed Cup Test); ( b ) be started automatically upon failure of the main source of electrical power and be automatically connected to the emergency switchboard; those services referred to in paragraph
(7)of this Rule shall thereupon be transferred automatically to the emergency generating set. The automatic starting system and the characteristic of the primemover shall be such as to permit the emergency generator to carry its full rated load as quickly as is safe and practicable, subject to a maximum of 45 seconds; and ( c ) be provided with a transitional source of emergency electrical power complying with paragraph
(7)of this Rule.
(5)The emergency generating set may be used to supply services other than emergency supplies exceptionally for short periods provided that the independent operation of the emergency source of electrical power is safeguarded in all circumstances.
(6)Where the emergency source of power is an accumulator battery it shall: ( a ) be capable of supplying the emergency electrical load without being recharged, whilst maintaining the voltage of the battery throughout the required discharge period within 12 per cent of its normal voltage; ( b ) be automatically connected to the emergency switchboard in the event of the failure of the main source of electrical power; and ( c ) be capable of immediately supplying the services specified in paragraph
(7)of this Rule.
(7)The transitional source of emergency electrical power required by this Rule shall: ( a ) consist of an accumulator battery capable of supplying the services required by sub-paragraph (
  1. c)and (
  2. d)of this paragraph without being recharged, whilst maintaining the voltage of the battery throughout the required discharge period within 12 per cent of its nominal voltage; ( b ) be arranged to supply automatically the services required by sub-paragraph (
  3. c)and (
  4. d)of this paragraph for at least half an hour in the event of the failure of either the main or emergency source of electrical power; ( c ) supply the lighting required by Rule 48
(1)(
  1. a)and (
  2. b)of these Rules; ( d ) supply the services required by Rule 48
(1)(c)(i), (iii) and (iv) of these Rules unless a suitably located independent accumulator battery is provided capable of supplying such services for the period of time required by those Rules; and ( e ) supply power to close the watertight doors but not necessarily all of them simultaneously together with their indicators and warning signals as required by Rule 48
(3)(a), of these Rules.
(8)Discharge of accumulator batteries that constitute either the emergency source of electrical power or transitional source of electrical power shall be indicated on the main switchboard or in the machinery control room. Discharge of any independent accumulator batteries provided in compliance with Rule 48
(1)(c) of these Rules shall be indicated at the appropriate control station.
(9)The emergency switchboard shall be situated as near as practicable to the emergency source of emergency electrical power. If the emergency source of electrical power is a generating set the emergency switchboard shall be situated in the same space as the generator unless the operation of the emergency switchboard would be thereby impaired. For the purposes of this paragraph an environmental enclosure within the main boundaries of the space does not provide separation between the emergency generator and the emergency switchboard. Any accumulator battery required by this Rule shall not be installed in the same space as the emergency generator.
(10)The emergency switchboard shall be supplied during normal operation from the main switchboard by an inter-connector feeder which shall be: ( a ) adequately protected at the main switchboard against overload and short circuit; ( b ) disconnected automatically at the emergency switchboard upon the failure of the main source of electrical power; and ( c ) be at least protected against short circuit at the emergency switchboard if the system is arranged for the main switchboard to be supplied from the emergency switchboard.
(11)Arrangements shall be made to disconnect non-emergency circuits from the emergency switchboard automatically, if necessary, to ensure that electric power is available for the required emergency supplies.
(12)Means shall be provided for periodically testing the complete emergency electrical system including any automatic starting arrangements provided. 47 Starting arrangements for emergency generating sets: ships of Classes I, II, and II(A). 47.
(1)In every ship of Classes I, II and II A the emergency generating sets shall be capable of being readily started at a temperature of 0°C. If temperatures below 0°C are anticipated provision shall be made for heating the engine so that it will start readily.
(2)The starting, charging and energy storing devices provided, which shall not be used for any purpose other than the operation of the emergency generating set, shall be located in the emergency generating set space except that the air receiver of the emergency generating set may be supplied from the main or auxiliary compressed air system through a non-return valve installed in the emergency generating set space.
(3)The stored energy required for starting shall be maintained at all times: ( a ) in electric and electro-hydraulic systems, from the emergency switchboard; and ( b ) in compressed air systems, by the main or auxiliary compressed air system or by an emergency air compressor which, if it is electrically driven, shall be supplied from the emergency switchboard.
(4)The emergency generating set shall: ( a ) be equipped with a starting system having sufficient stored energy for twelve consecutive starts; and ( b ) be provided with an additional source of stored energy independent of the starting system required by sub-paragraph
(4)(a) of this Rule capable of producing a further twelve starts within 30 minutes unless an alternative and independent starting system is provided or effective manual starting can be demonstrated. 48 Emergency electric power services supplies: ships of Classes I, II and II(A). 48.
(1)In every ship of Classes I, II and II A the emergency source of electrical power required by Rule 46 shall be capable of simultaneously supplying the following services, including any starting currents, for a period of 36 hours or for such shorter period (being not less than 12 hours) as the Minister may permit in the case of any ship regularly engaged on voyages of short duration: ( a ) Emergency lighting: (
  1. i)at every muster and embarkation station on deck and over sides as required by the Merchant Shipping (Life-Saving Appliances) Rules 1983 ( S.I. No. 302 of 1983 ); (
  2. ii)in alleyways, stairways and exits giving access to the muster and embarkation stations; (iii) in all service and accommodation alleyways, stairways and exits and personnel lift cars; (
  3. iv)in the machinery spaces, main generating stations and emergency generating set position including their control positions; (
  4. v)in all control stations, machinery control rooms and at each main and emergency switchboard; (
  5. vi)at all stowage positions for firemen's outfits; (vii) at the steering gear; and (viii) at the fire pumps, the sprinkler pump, the emergency bilge pump and at the starting position of their motors. ( b ) navigation lights and other lights required by the Collision Regulations (Ships and Water Craft on the Water) Order, 1984 ( S.I. No. 29 of 1984 ). ( c ) miscellaneous services: (
  6. i)all internal communication equipment required in an emergency; (
  7. ii)the navigational aids required by the Merchant Shipping (Navigational Equipment) Rules 1985 ( S.I. No. 280 of 1985 ). Where such provision is unreasonable or impracticable the Minister may waive this requirement for ships of less than 5,000 tons; (iii) the fire detection and fire alarm system, and the fire door holding and release system; and (
  8. iv)for intermittent operation of the daylight signalling lamp, the ship's whistle, the manually operated call points and all internal signals that are required in an emergency; unless such services have an independent supply for the period of 36 hours from an accumulator battery suitably located for use in an emergency. ( d ) pumps and associated equipment as follows: (
  9. i)one of fire pumps required by the Merchant Shipping (Fire protection) Rules, 1985 ( S.I. No. 279 of 1985 ); (
  10. ii)the automatic sprinkler pump, if any; and (iii) the emergency bilge pump and all the equipment essential for the operation of electrically powered remote controlled bilge valves.
(2)The emergency source of electrical power referred to in paragraph
(1)of this Rule shall also be capable of supplying simultaneously with the services required by paragraph
(1)of this Rule the steering gear for the period of time required by Rule 68
(16)of these Rules.
(3)In addition to fulfilling the requirements of Rule 48
(1)of these Rules the emergency source of electrical power shall be capable of supplying simultaneously for a period of 30 minutes: ( a ) the ship's watertight doors, if they are electrically or electro-hydraulically operated, together with their indicators which show if the doors are open or closed, and the warning signals, if they are electrically operated; and ( b ) the emergency arrangements to bring the lift cars to deck level for the escape of persons; the passenger lift cars may be brought to deck level sequentially in air emergency. 49 Emergency source of electric power and emergency switchboard: ships of Class III. 49.
(1)In a ship of Class III which is provided with an emergency bilge pump in compliance with Rule 33
(2)of these Rules, or an emergency fire pump, being an electrically operated pump, there shall be provided a self-contained energy source of electrical power, which shall be a generator complying with Rule 46
(4)(a) of these Rules or an accumulator complying with Rule 46
(6)(a) of these Rules capable of operating the pump for a period of 24 hours.
(2)The emergency source of electrical poser required by paragraph
(1)of this Rule shall comply with the requirements of Rule 46
(1),
(2)(
  1. a)to (
  2. d)inclusive,
(5),
(8),
(9),
(10)and
(11)and if the emergency source of electrical power is a generating set, Rule 47 of these Rules. 50 Distribution systems. 50. In every ship distribution systems shall be arranged that a fire in any main fire zone will not interfere with essential services in any other main fire zone. Main and emergency feeders passing through any main fire zone shall be separated as widely as in practicable both horizontally and vertically. 51 Location and construction of electric cables. 51.
(1)All electric cables external to equipment shall be flame retardant and shall be installed so that their flame retarding or equivalent properties are not impaired. The Minister may permit installation of cables which do not comply with the foregoing for particular purposes, such as radio frequency cables, where compliance would be impracticable.
(2)Cables shall be installed and supported in such a manner as to avoid chafing and other damage. All metal sheaths and metal armour of cables shall be electrically continuous and shall be earthed except that the Minister may permit such earthing to be omitted for particular purposes.
(3)Cables serving emergency services shall not so far as is practicable be routed through galleys, laundries, machinery spaces of Category A and their casings or other high fire risk areas except insofar as it is necessary to provide emergency services in such areas. Cables connecting fire pumps to the emergency switchboard shall be of a fire resistant type where they pass through high fire risk areas.
(4)Cables serving emergency services shall where practicable be installed in such a manner as to preclude them being rendered unservicable by the effect of fire in an adjacent space and subsequent heating of the dividing bulkhead.
(5)The electrical, mechanical, flame retarding and, where applicable, fire resisting properties of the terminations and joints in any conductor shall be at least equivalent to those of the conductor. 52 General precautions against shock, fire and other hazards. 52.
(1)All electrical equipment shall be so constructed and installed that there will be no danger of injury to any person handling it in a proper manner. Exposed metal parts of electrical equipment which are not intended to have a voltage above that of earth, but which may have such a voltage under fault conditions, shall be earthed unless such equipment is: ( a ) supplied at a voltage not exceeding 55 volts direct current or 55 volts roof mean square alternating current between conductors hereinafter referred to as "RMS ac", from a source other than an auto-transformer; or ( b ) supplied at a voltage not exceeding 250 volts RMS ac by safety isolating transformers supplying only one consuming device; or ( c ) of double insulation construction.
(2)All electrical apparatus shall be constructed and installed so that it will not cause injury when handled or touched in the normal manner. In particular when electric lamps, welding equipment, tools or other apparatus are used in confined or damp spaces or spaces with large exposed conductive surfaces, special provision shall be made so far as practicable to ensure that the danger of electric shock is reduced to a minimum. Such spaces shall at least include open decks and machinery spaces.
(3)Every main and emergency switchboard shall be so arranged as to give easy access for operation and sufficient access for maintenance without danger to any person. Every such switchboard shall be suitably guarded and a non-conducting mat or grating shall be provided at the back and front where necessary. No exposed parts which may have a voltage between conductors or to earth exceeding 250 volts direct current or 55 volts RMS ac shall be installed on the face of any switchboard or control panel.
(4)Subject to paragraph
(6)of this Rule the hull return system shall not be used in any such ship for the power, heat and light distribution system thereof.
(5)The final sub-circuits of any hull return system of distribution shall be two wire.
(6)The requirements of paragraph
(4)and
(5)of this Rule do not preclude the use of: ( a ) impressed current cathodic protection systems; ( b ) limited and locally earthed systems; and ( c ) insulation monitoring devices with a maximum circulation current of 30 milli-ampres.
(7)The insulation of any distribution system that is not earthed shall be continuously monitored by a system capable of giving audible and visual indication of abnormally low insulation values.
(8)Every separate electrical circuit shall be protected against short circuits.
(9)Each separate electrical circuit, other than a circuit which operates the ship's steering gear, shall unless the Minister otherwise permits be protected against overload. There shall be clearly and permanently indicated on or near each over protective device the current carrying capacity of the circuit which it protects and the rating or setting of the device.
(10)All lighting and power circuits terminating in a cargo space shall be provided with a multiple pole switch outside the space for disconnecting all such circuits.
(11)Accumulator batteries shall be housed in boxes or compartments which are constructed to protect the batteries from damage and are so ventilated as to minimise the accumulation of explosive gas. Subject to Rule 53
(1)of these Rules, electrical or other equipment which may constitute a source of ignition of flammable vapours shall not be installed in any compartment assigned to accumulator batteries. Accumulator batteries shall not be installed in sleeping accommodation spaces.
(12)Every electric space-heater forming part of the equipment of a ship shall be fixed in position and shall be so constructed as to reduce the risk of fire to a minimum. No such heater shall be construed with an element so exposed that clothing, curtains, or other material can be scorched or set on fire by heat from the element. 53 Electrical equipment in hazardous areas and spaces. 53. In every ship to which these Rules apply:
(1)electrical equipment shall not be installed in any hazardous area unless the Minister is satisfied that such equipment is: ( a ) essential for operational or safety purposes; ( b ) of a type that is certified for use in the flammable dusts, gasses or vapours to which it may be subjected; and ( c ) appropriate to the space concerned.
(2)Cables passing through any hazardous areas or serving electrical equipment in such areas shall: ( a ) be appropriate having regard to the dusts, gases or vapours to which they must be subjected, and; ( b ) unless they form part of intrinsically safe circuits be enclosed in a gas-tight steel conduit or include a metallic sheath braid or wire armour for earth leakage detection. Additional protection against mechanical damage shall be provided in locations where such damage may occur.
(3)In special category spaces the electrical equipment shall be certified for use in explosive petrol and air mixtures and the cables shall be appropriate for use in such mixtures provided that in such spaces above the bulkhead deck electrical equipment that is enclosed and protected to prevent discharge of sparks may be installed more than 450 millimetres above any deck on which vapours may accumulate if the atmosphere within the special category space is changed at least ten times per hour based on the gross volume of the space.
(4)In cargo spaces, other than special category spaces, intended for the carriage of motor vehicles with fuel in their tanks for their propulsion the electrical equipment shall be certified for use in explosive petrol and air mixtures and the cables shall be appropriate for use in such mixtures.
(5)In any ventilation trunk connected to any enclosed space for the carriage of motor vehicles with fuel in their tanks for their own propulsion including a special category space, electrical equipment shall be certified for use in explosive petrol and air mixtures and the cables shall be appropriate for use in such mixtures.
(6)Electrical equipment and cables shall not be installed in enclosed cargo spaces, special category spaces or open ro/ro cargo spaces intended for the carriage of dangerous goods which are flammable liquids with a flash point below 23°C (Closed Cup Test) of flammable gasses unless the minister considers the location therein essential. If permitted, any electrical equipment installed in such spaces shall be certified for, and cables shall be appropriate for, use with the flammable dusts, gases or vapours to which it may be exposed. Cable penetrations of the decks and bulkheads of such spaces shall be sealed against the passage of gas or vapour. The Minister may permit the installation of electrical equipment and cables which do not comply with the foregoing for particular applications provided such equipment and cables are capable of being electrically isolated by the removal of links or the operation of lockable switches. 54 Spare parts and tools. 54. Every ship of Classes I, II and II (A) shall be provided with an adequate quantity of replacements for those parts of the ship's electrical equipment and

🔗 To official source

AI explanation based on the official legal text. Indicative, not a substitute for legal advice.