The Fishing Vessels (Safety Provisions) Rules 1975

Electrical precautions

40.—(1) In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply electrical equipment shall be so constructed and installed that there will be no danger to any person handling it in a proper manner.

(a) Subject to sub-paragraph (b) below, where electrical equipment is to be operated at a voltage in excess of 55 volts the exposed metal parts of such 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;

(b) exposed metal parts of portable electrical lamps, tools and similar apparatus, to be operated at a voltage in excess of 55 volts shall be earthed through a conductor in the supply cable unless, by the use of double insulation or a suitable isolating transformer, protection at least as effective as earthing through a conductor is provided.

(2) In every such vessel every fixed electrical cable shall be of a flame retarding type. All metal sheaths and armour of any electric cable shall be electrically continuous and shall be earthed. Electric cable which is neither metal sheathed nor armoured shall, if installed where its failure might cause a fire or explosion, be effectively protected.

(3) In every such vessel wiring shall be supported in such a manner as to avoid chafing or other damage.

(4) In every such vessel joints in all electrical conductors except those in low voltage communications circuits shall be made only in junction or outlet boxes or by a suitable method such that it retains the original mechanical, flame retarding and electrical properties of the cable. Junction or outlet boxes shall be so constructed as to confine the spread of fire.

(5) In every such vessel lighting fittings shall be so arranged that the rise in temperature will not damage the associated wiring or cause a fire risk in the surrounding materials.

(6) In every such vessel electrical circuits, other than a circuit which operates the vessel's steering gear, shall be protected against overload and short circuit. There shall be clearly and permanently indicated on or near each overload protective device the current carrying capacity of the circuit which it protects and the rating or setting of the device.

(7) In every such vessel electrical equipment shall not be installed in spaces where flammable mixtures are liable to accumulate unless it is of a type which will not cause ignition.

(8) In every such vessel every lighting circuit terminating in a bunker or hold shall be provided with an isolating switch positioned outside that bunker or hold.