PART IGENERAL

Citation, application, commencement, interpretation and amendment1

1

These Rules may be cited as the Fishing Vessels (Safety Provisions) Rules 1975.

2

These Rules apply to every mechanically propelled sea-going fishing vessel registered in the United Kingdom under Part I or entered in the fishing boat register under Part IV of the Merchant Shipping Act 1894.

3

Parts I, III, and IV of these Rules shall come into operation on 1st May 1975.

4

All remaining Parts of these Rules shall come into operation—

a

in respect of fishing vessels to which these Rules apply other than fishing vessels described in sub-paragraphs (b) and (c) of this Rule—

i

if the keel of the vessel was laid before 1st January 1947—

  • on 1st October 1975 for vessels of 21 metres in length and over;

  • on 1st April 1976 for vessels of 18 metres in length and over but less than 21 metres in length;

  • on 1st October 1976 for vessels of 15 metres in length and over but less than 18 metres in length;

  • on 1st April 1977 for vessels of less than 15 metres in length;

ii

if the keel of the vessel was laid on or after 1st January 1947 but before 1st January 1960—

  • on 1st October 1977 for vessels of 21 metres in length and over;

  • on 1st April 1978 for vessels of 18 metres in length and over but less than 21 metres in length;

  • on 1st October 1978 for vessels of 15 metres in length and over but less than 18 metres in length;

  • on 1st April 1979 for vessels of less than 15 metres in length;

iii

if the keel of the vessel was laid on or after 1st January 1960 but before 1st May 1975—

  • on 1st October 1979 for vessels of 21 metres in length and over;

  • on 1st April 1980 for vessels of 18 metres in length and over but less than 21 metres in length;

  • on 1st October 1980 for vessels of 15 metres in length and over but less than 18 metres in length;

  • on 1st April 1981 for vessels of less than 15 metres in length;

iv

if the keel of the vessel was laid on or after 1st May 1975 pursuant to an agreement for the construction of the vessel entered into before that date, on 1st April 1980;

v

if the keel of the vessel was laid on or after 1st May 1975 pursuant to an agreement for the construction of the vessel entered into on or after that date, on 1st July 1975;

b

in the case of fishing vessels engaged on single or twin boom fishing to which these Rules apply, if the keel of the vessel was laid on or after 1st January 1947 but before 1st May 1975, on 1st July 1977;

c

in the case of fishing vessels of 24.4 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply, other than fishing vessels referred to in sub-paragraph 4(b) of this Rule, which at 1st May 1975 are vessels—

i

classed with Lloyd's Register of Shipping and which continue to be so classed until 1st April 1980; or

ii

in respect of or in connection with which a grant or loan has been made or is to be made under the Sea Fish Industry Act 1970 and which are thereby subject to inspection by a person authorised by the White Fish Authority or Herring Industry Board and continue to be subject to such inspection until 1st April 1980

on 1st April 1980.

5

In these Rules, unless the context otherwise requires, the following expressions have the following meanings respectively:—

  • `A' class division” means a bulkhead or part of a deck which is—

    1. a

      constructed of steel or other equivalent material;

    2. b

      suitably stiffened;

    3. c

      so constructed as to be capable of preventing the passage of smoke and flame to the end of the 60 minute standard fire test; and

    4. d

      so insulated where necessary with suitable non-combustible materials such that, if the division is exposed to the standard fire test, the average temperature of the unexposed side of the division will rise not more than 139°C above the initial temperature nor will the temperature at any one point, including any joint, rise more than 180°C above the initial temperature within the time listed below:

      A—60 standard

      60 minutes

      A—0 standard

      0 minutes

  • `B' class divisions” means those divisions formed by bulkheads, decks, ceilings or linings which—

    1. a

      are so constructed as to be capable of preventing the passage of flame to the end of the first 30 minutes of the standard fire test;

    2. b

      have an insulation value such that during the standard fire test the average temperature of the unexposed side will not rise more than 140°C above its initial temperature, nor will its temperature at any one point, including any joint, rise more than 225°C above its initial temperature within the time listed below:

      B—30 standard

      30 minutes

      B—15 standard

      15 minutes

      B—0 standard

      0 minutes;

    3. c

      except in the case of divisions constructed of glass reinforced plastic, are constructed of suitable non-combustible materials and their supporting members or structures are also constructed of non-combustible materials;

  • Accommodation spaces” means corridors, lavatories, cabins, offices, crew spaces, isolated pantries and similar spaces;

  • Breadth of a vessel” means the maximum width measured:—

    1. a

      to the moulded line of the frame of a vessel with a metal shell; or

    2. b

      to the outer surface of the hull of a vessel with a shell of any other material or of a composite vessel;

  • Class C boat” means a boat complying with the provisions of Rule 83 of these Rules;

  • Control stations” means spaces in which main navigating or radio or central fire-recording equipment or an emergency generator are located;

  • Crew space” means crew accommodation within the meaning of section 20(7) of the Merchant Shipping Act 1970;

  • Dead ship condition” means a condition where no power is available in the vessel;

  • Distant water voyage” means a voyage during the course of which a vessel proceeds outside the area bounded by lines joining the following positions:—

    1. a

      coast of Norway at 65°00&min;N

    2. b

      65°00&min;N 8°00&min;E

    3. c

      61°30&min;N 18°00&min;W

    4. d

      43°00&min;N 18°00&min;W

    5. e

      coast of Spain at 43°00&min;N;

  • Draught” means the vertical distance from the moulded base line amidships to the operating water line of a vessel;

  • Enclosed superstructure” means a superstructure with—

    1. a

      enclosing bulkheads of efficient construction;

    2. b

      access openings, if any, in those bulkheads fitted with permanently attached weathertight doors of a strength equivalent to the unpierced structure which can be operated from either side; and

    3. c

      other openings in sides or ends of the superstructure fitted with efficient weathertight means of closing,

    but does not include a bridge or poop unless access is provided for the crew to reach machinery and other working spaces inside the bridge or poop by alternative means which are available at all times when bulkhead openings are closed.

  • 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 the standard fire test;

  • Freeboard deck” means the uppermost complete deck exposed to the weather and sea which has permanent means of closing all openings in the weather portions thereof and below which all openings in the sides of the vessel are fitted with permanent means of closing watertight. In a vessel having a discontinuous freeboard deck, the lowest line of the exposed deck and the continuation of that line parallel to the upper part of the deck is to be taken as the freeboard deck. A lower deck may be designated as the freeboard deck subject to its being a complete and permanent deck continuous both (i) in a fore and aft direction at least between the machinery spaces and peak bulkheads and (ii) athwartships. When this lower deck is stepped, the lowest line of the deck and the continuation of that line parallel to the upper part of the deck is to be taken as the freeboard deck. When a lower deck is designated as the freeboard deck, that part of the hull which extends above the freeboard deck is treated as superstructure;

  • Height” in relation to a superstructure or other erection means the least vertical distance measured at side from the top of the deck beams of a superstructure or an erection to the top of the freeboard deck beams;

  • Independent power pump” means a pump operated by power otherwise than from the vessel's main engines;

  • Inflatable boat” means a boat complying with Rule 84 of these Rules;

  • Launching appliance” means the appliance complying with the provisions of Rule 98 of these Rules;

  • Length” in relation to a vessel, means the length shown on the vessel's register;

  • Lifeboat” means a boat complying with the provisions of Rule 82 of these Rules;

  • Liferaft” means a liferaft complying with the provisions of Rule 85 of these Rules;

  • Machinery control room” means a room from which the propelling machinery and boilers serving the needs of propulsion may be controlled;

  • Machinery space” in relation to vessels of 24.4 metres in length and over means any space used for propelling, auxiliary or refrigerating machinery, boilers, liver boilers, fish meal plant, pumps, engineers' workshops, generators, ventilation or air conditioning machinery, oil filling stations and similar spaces and trunkways to such spaces; and in relation to vessels of less than 24.4 metres in length, means the main engine room;

  • Main circulating pump” means the pump installed for circulating water through the main condenser in steam driven vessels or the pump which circulates the main engine sea water coolant in motor driven vessels;

  • Maximum service speed” means the greatest speed which the vessel is designed to maintain at sea at her deepest seagoing draught;

  • Motor lifeboat” means a lifeboat complying with Rule 82(5) of these Rules;

  • Navigable speed” means the minimum ahead speed at which the vessel can be effectively steered;

  • Non-combustible material” means a 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 materialshall be construed accordingly;

  • Oil fired boiler” means any boiler wholly or partly fired by liquid fuel not being a domestic boiler of less than 73.28 kilowatts;

  • Oil fuel unit” means the equipment used for the preparation of oil fuel for delivery to the oil burners of an oil-fired boiler or that used to prepare heated oil for delivery to an internal combustion engine and includes the oil pressure pumps, filters and heaters;

  • Person” means a person over the age of one year;

  • Principal Length” means the length measured in metres on a straight line from the fore part of the stem at top to the aftermost side of the transom or stern contour;

  • Principal Breadth” means the maximum breadth measured in metres on a straight line to the outside of the frame lines of a vessel the hull of which is constructed of metal or to the outer surfaces of a vessel the hull of which is constructed of other material;

  • Principal Depth” means the depth measured in metres at the mid point of the Principal Length as the vertical distance from the top of the deck beam at side to the top of the keel or line at the intersection of the inside of the shell plating with the keel where a bar keel extends above that line in a vessel the hull of which is constructed of metal or to the lower rabbet line of the keel of a vessel the hull of which is constructed of other material;

  • Sea going” means proceeding outside the limits of smooth or partially smooth waters as specified in Schedule 24 to these Rules;

  • Service spaceincludes galleys, pantries, laundries, store rooms, paint rooms, carpenters' workshops and trunkways leading to such spaces;

  • Settling tank” means an oil storage tank in which oil fuel is heated in the course of its preparation for combustion in boilers and machinery and which has a heating surface of not less than 0.18 square metres per tonne of oil capacity;

  • Standard fire test” means a test in which specimens of the relevant bulkheads or decks, having a surface area of not less than 4.6 square metres and a height of 2.4 metres, resembling as closely as possible the intended construction and including, where appropriate, at least one joint, are exposed in a test furnace to a series of time temperature relationships, approximately as follows:—

    • At the end of the first 5 minutes: 538°C

    • At the end of the first 10 minutes: 704°C

    • At the end of the first 30 minutes: 843°C

    • At the end of the first 60 minutes: 927°C

  • Steering gear power unit” means

    1. a

      in the case of electric steering gear, the electric motor and its associated electrical equipment; or

    2. b

      in the case of electro-hydraulic steering gear, the electric motor, its associated electrical equipment and connected pump; or

    3. c

      in the case of steam-hydraulic or pneumatic-hydraulic steering gear, the driving engine and connected pump;

  • Suitable” in relation to material means suitable for the purpose for which it is used;

  • Superstructure” means a decked structure (including a raised quarter deck) on the freeboard deck either extending from side to side of the vessel or with the side plating not being inboard of the shell plating more than 4 per cent of the breadth of the vessel;

  • Superstructure deck” means that complete or partial deck or the top of a superstructure, deckhouse or other erections situated at a height of not less than 1.8 metres above the freeboard deck;

  • Surface spread of flame” means the surface spread of flame classified as Class 1 or Class 2 within the meaning of British Standard Specification 476; Part 7; 1971;

  • Vessel Numeral” means the product obtained by multiplying together the Principal Length by the Principal Breadth by the Principal Depth;

  • Watertight” in relation to a structure means capable of preventing the passage of water through the structure in any direction;

  • Weathertight” in relation to a structure means capable of preventing the passage of sea water through the structure in ordinary sea conditions.

6

The Interpretation Act 1889 shall apply for the interpretation of these Rules as it applies for the interpretation of an Act of Parliament.

7

The Merchant Shipping (Life-Saving Appliances) Rules 19652 as amended3, and the Merchant Shipping (Fire Appliances) Rules 19654 shall be amended as follows:

a

In Rule 1(2) of each of the said Rules there shall be inserted in the appropriate places alphabetically the words” “Fishing vesselhas the same meaning as in the Fishing Vessels (Safety Provisions) Act 1970

b

In the proviso to Rule 1(3) of each of the said Rules, there shall be added after paragraph (ii) as paragraph (iii):

iii

mechanically propelled fishing vessels registered in the United Kingdom under Part I or entered in the fishing boat register under Part IV of the Merchant Shipping Act 1894

8

The Merchant Shipping (Musters) Rules 19655 shall be amended as follows:

In the proviso to Rule 1(3) there shall be added at the end of the proviso the words “or to a fishing vessel as defined in section 9(1) of the Fishing Vessels (Safety Provisions) Act 1970, being a mechanically propelled fishing vessel registered in the United Kingdom under Part I or entered in the fishing boat register under Part IV of the Merchant Shipping Act 1894”.

9

The Merchant Shipping (Official Log Books) (Fishing Vessels) Regulations 19726 shall be amended as follows:

In Regulation 1(2), there shall be substituted for the definition of “the Musters Rules” the words ““the Musters Rules” means the Fishing Vessels (Safety Provisions) Rules 1975 so far as the same relate to musters;

PART IIFISHING VESSEL CONSTRUCTION RULES

AHULL (INCLUDING SUPERSTRUCTURES) AND EQUIPMENT

Structural Strength2

1

The structural strength of every fishing vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply and the number and disposition of bulk-heads shall be adequate for the intended service.

2

Every such vessel shall be provided with a watertight collision bulkhead in the fore part of the vessel and main and auxiliary machinery essential for the propulsion and safety of the vessel shall be situated in a watertight machinery compartment, except that vessels constructed substantially of wood may be provided with a wooden bulkhead or bulkheads of solid and substantial construction separating the fish hold from the rest of the vessel.

BWATERTIGHT INTEGRITY

Closing arrangements3

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply the number of openings in the outer watertight structure of the vessel shall be as few as reasonably practicable and shall be provided with effective closing arrangements where required by the provisions of these Rules.

Doors4

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply doors fitted in the outer watertight structure shall be of substantial construction permanently and strongly attached to the bulkhead and so framed, stiffened and fitted that the whole structure of which they are part is of equivalent strength to the unpierced bulkhead. They shall be capable of being closed weathertight by means of gaskets and clamping arrangements or other equally effective means permanently attached to the bulkhead or to the door and arranged so that they may be operated from each side of the bulkhead.

Hatchway covers5

1

Subject to paragraph (2) of this Rule, in every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply where hatchway covers are constructed of wooden boards with waterproof covers—

a

the unsupported span of the wooden boards shall not exceed 1.5 metres;

b

the finished thickness of the wooden boards shall be not less than 4 millimetres for each 100 millimetres of unsupported span and the width of their bearing surfaces shall not be less than 65 millimetres, except that no wooden board shall have a finished thickness of less than 40 millimetres;

c

a waterproof cover of suitable material and of adequate strength shall be provided for every hatchway and be capable of being secured in place in accordance with sub-paragraphs (e) and (f) below;

d

where portable beams are provided to support hatchway covers the strength of such beams shall be calculated using the assumed static loads given in sub-paragraph (3)(a) below and the mechanical properties of the material used in the construction and such beams shall be of adequate strength for their intended service;

e

cleats shall be set to fit the taper of the wedges, spaced 600 millimetres centre to centre and at least 65 millimetres wide. The end cleats on each end or side shall be not more than 150 millimetres from the hatch corners;

f

an adequate number of battens and wedges of efficient pattern and in good condition shall be provided. The wedges shall be of tough wood or equivalent material cut to a taper of not more than 1 in 6 and shall not be less than 12 millimetres thick at the toes;

g

steel bars shall be provided to ensure that each section of the hatchway covers can be efficiently and independently secured after the waterproof covers have been battened down;

h

hatchway covers shall be permanently marked to indicate their correct position.

2

In any such vessel less than 24.4 metres in length other arrangements equally effective to the requirements of sub-paragraphs (1)(c), (e), (f) and (g) of this Rule may be provided to maintain wooden hatch covers in position and secure them weathertight.

3

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply where hatchway covers are constructed of material other than wood:—

a

for the purpose of strength calculations it shall be assumed that such covers are subjected to the weight of cargo intended to be carried on them or to the following static loads whichever is the greater:—

i

1.0 tonne per square metre, where the length of the vessel is 24.4 metres or less;

ii

1.75 tonnes per square metre, where the length of the vessel is 100 metres or more.

For vessels of lengths more than 24.4 metres but not exceeding 100 metres the loads shall be determined by linear interpolation provided that where a hatchway is situated on the superstructure deck in a position abaft a point 0.25 of the Principal Length from the forward perpendicular, the assumed loads may be reduced to not less than 75% of the requirement of this paragraph;

b

where such covers are constructed of mild steel, the maximum stress calculated using the assumed static loads set out in sub-paragraph (a) above when multiplied by 4.25 shall not exceed the minimum ultimate strength of the material. Under these loads the deflections shall not be more than 0.0028 times the span;

c

every such cover constructed of material other than mild steel shall have strength and stiffness equivalent to those required in the case of a cover of mild steel;

d

every such cover shall be fitted with gaskets and clamping devices, or other equally effective arrangements, sufficient to ensure weather-tightness.

Machinery space openings6

1

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply machinery space openings in exposed positions on the freeboard deck shall be properly framed and efficiently enclosed by casings of adequate strength and fitted with doors complying with the requirements of Rule 4 of these Rules.

2

In every such vessel every such opening, other than a doorway provided in a casing, shall be fitted with covers of strength equivalent to the unpierced structure, and shall be permanently attached thereto and capable of being closed weathertight.

3

In every such vessel where casings are not fitted the access openings to the machinery space shall be closed in accordance with the provisions of Rule 7(1) of these Rules.

Other deck openings7

1

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply, flush deck scuttles of the screw, bayonet or equivalent type and manholes may be fitted where these are essential for fishing operations and shall be capable of being closed watertight and shall be permanently attached to the structure, provided that such scuttles and manholes may be effectively weathertight only when closed if their design, size and disposition is such that no danger is likely to result from the absence of complete watertightness.

2

In every such vessel an efficient superstructure, deckhouse or companionway fitted with weathertight doors or other equally effective closing arrangements shall be provided to protect deck openings in the freeboard and superstructure decks other than hatchways, machinery space openings, manholes and flush scuttles.

Ventilators8

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply coamings of ventilators shall be of substantial construction and capable of being closed weathertight by devices permanently attached to the ventilator or adjacent structure provided that, subject to the requirements of Rule 59(1), weathertight closing appliances need not be fitted to ventilators in which the coamings extend more than 4.5 metres above the freeboard deck or more than 2.3 metres above the superstructure deck and provided further that the requirements of this Rule shall not apply to vessels under 24.4 metres in length where the ventilators are fitted in the top of the casing or deckhouse and where such ventilators are positioned not more than one-fifth of the moulded breadth of the vessel from the centreline of the vessel and the lowest point at which water might gain access through the ventilator is not less than 1.5 metres above the freeboard deck.

Air pipes9

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply where air pipes to tanks and other spaces below deck extend above the freeboard or superstructure decks the exposed parts of the pipes shall be of substantial construction. Exposed openings of air pipes shall be provided with efficient means of closing weathertight permanently attached to the pipe or adjacent structure. Provision shall be made to prevent excessive pressure on tank boundaries.

Side scuttles and skylights10

1

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply side scuttles to spaces below the freeboard deck and to enclosed superstructures, deckhouses or companionways on the freeboard deck shall be fitted with hinged deadlights capable of being closed watertight.

2

In every such vessel every side scuttle shall be fitted in a position such that its sill is above a line drawn parallel to the freeboard deck at side having its lowest point 1 metre above the highest load waterline.

3

In every such vessel side scuttles, glasses and deadlights shall be of substantial construction.

4

In every such vessel skylights leading to spaces below the freeboard deck shall be of substantial construction and capable of being closed and secured weathertight, and with provision for adequate means of closing in the event of damage to the inserts.

Side openings11

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply the number of openings in the sides of the vessel below the freeboard deck shall be the minimum compatible with the design and proper working of the vessel and such openings shall be provided with closing arrangements of adequate strength to ensure watertightness and the structural integrity of the surrounding structure.

Inlets, discharges, and scuppers other than deck scuppers12

1

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply each discharge pipe leading through the hull from spaces below the freeboard deck or from within an enclosed superstructure or deckhouse on the freeboard deck shall have an automatic non-return valve and a positive means of closure from an accessible position except that the requirements of this paragraph shall not apply in those cases where the piping of the scupper or discharge pipe is of substantial thickness and where the entry of water into the vessel through the opening is not likely to lead to dangerous flooding.

2

In manned machinery spaces in every such vessel controls for main and auxiliary machinery, sea inlets and discharges shall be readily accessible and be provided with indicators showing whether the valves are open or closed. In unmanned machinery spaces suitable warning devices shall be installed to indicate leakage of water into the space or leakage from any other system.

3

In every such vessel valves and other fittings attached to the hull shall be of steel, bronze or other ductile material and pipes between the hull opening and the valve shall be of steel except that in positions elsewhere and in vessels constructed of materials other than steel, other materials may be used provided that they are suitable for their intended service.

Heights of hatchway coamings, doorways sills, ventilators and air pipes13

1

Subject to paragraph (2) of this Rule, in every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply every hatchway on the freeboard deck shall have a coaming of substantial construction and the height of the coaming above the deck shall be not less than:—

a

300 millimetres for vessels with Vessel Numerals up to and including 200;

b

380 millimetres for vessels with Vessel Numerals above 200 but no more than 315;

c

460 millimetres for vessels with Vessel Numerals above 315 but not more than 1400;

d

600 millimetres for vessels with Vessel Numerals above 1400.

On superstructure decks the height of the coamings shall be not less than 300 millimetres.

2

In any such vessel the height of hatch coamings specified in paragraph (1) above may be reduced, or the coamings omitted, where compliance with the requirements of paragraph (1) above is not reasonably practicable provided watertight hatch covers are fitted. Such covers shall be kept as small as reasonably practicable, be permanently attached by hinges or equivalent means and capable of being rapidly closed and battened down.

3

In every such vessel the height of sills above the level of the deck in doorways provided in companionways, superstructures, deckhouses and machinery casings which give access to parts of the deck exposed to the weather and sea from spaces below the freeboard deck shall be not less than those specified for hatchway coamings in paragraph (1) above provided that the height of such sills above deck may be reduced where there is no direct access to spaces leading below the freeboard deck and where the deckhouse, superstructures or companionways on the freeboard deck are sub-divided internally.

4

In every such vessel the lowest point at which water might gain access through the air pipes shall be not less than 760 millimetres above the freeboard deck or not less than 450 millimetres above the superstructure deck, provided that these heights may be reduced where compliance with the requirements of this paragraph of these Rules is not reasonably practicable because of interference with fishing operations and provided adequate closing arrangements are fitted.

5

On the freeboard deck of every such vessel the height above deck of ventilators, other than machinery space ventilators, shall be not less than 900 millimetres and on superstructure decks not less than 760 millimetres. The height of ventilators of machinery spaces shall be as high as is reasonable and practicable.

6

In every such vessel the requirements of the preceding paragraphs of this Rule shall apply in relation to the heights of coamings, sills, air pipes and ventilators above an enclosed deck where water may accumulate and present a hazard to the vessel as they apply in relation to the heights of coamings, sills, air pipes and ventilators above the freeboard deck or superstructure deck as the case may be.

Freeing ports14

1

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply where bulwarks on weather parts of the freeboard deck form wells, the minimum freeing port area in square metres (in this Rule referred to as “A”) on each side of the vessel for each well on the freeboard deck shall be determined in accordance with the following formula in relation to the length and height of the bulwark in the well (in this Rule referred to as “l” and “h” respectively) as follows:

A=(1·0+3·5h)l×h100
  • l = length of the bulwark in metres.

  • h = mean height of the bulwark in metres.

Where side houses of superstructures fitted within the well contribute positive buoyancy to the vessel. A may be reduced except that, where such side houses or superstructures are discontinuous and provide pockets for the accumulation of water, no reduction shall be made.

2

In any such vessel if the well is on a deck whose minimum height at side above the deepest operational waterline is equal to or greater than “R” metres, A may be multiplied by the factor “f” where:—

f=1-0·5(H-R)(2·35-R)R=0·95+(L-30)0·9(·95)
  • H = minimum height in metres measured from the deepest operational waterline to the lowest part of the deck at side upon which the well is formed.

  • L = registered length in metres.

In no case shall the factor “f” be less than 0·75.

3

In any such vessel, A may include—

a

the area of those freeing ports with attached means of closing provided that the freeing ports shall only be closed during fishing operations; and

b

in stern trawlers the apertures in and under the stern doors.

4

In every such vessel freeing ports shall be so arranged throughout the length of the bulwarks as to provide an effective means of freeing the deck of water. Lower edges of freeing ports shall be as near to the deck as is practicable. Freeing ports greater than 230 millimetres in depth shall be fitted with bars spaced not more than 230 millimetres apart or by other equivalent arrangements.

5

In every such vessel the arrangements provided in the well for the stowage of equipment and the catch shall not impair the effectiveness of the freeing ports.

6

In every such vessel intended to operate in zones where icing occurs the means of closing freeing ports when fitted shall be capable of being readily removed.

CFREEBOARD AND STABILITY

Freeboard15

1

Every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply shall be so designed, constructed and operated as to ensure that in all foreseeable operating conditions the freeboard will be adequate to provide:—

a

compliance with the stability criteria set out in Rule 16 of these Rules;

b

reasonable safety for men working on deck;

c

reasonable safety to the vessel from the entry of water into enclosed spaces having regard to the closing appliances fitted.

2

On each side of every such vessel, draught water marks complying with the requirements of section 7 of the Merchant Shipping Act 1894 as amended by the Merchant Shipping (Metrication) Regulations 19737 shall be provided.

Stability16

Every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply shall in all operating conditions and circumstances set out in paragraphs 10 and 11 of Schedule 3 to these Rules and in all foreseeable operating conditions satisfy the following stability criteria after due correction for the free surface effects of liquids in tanks:—

a

the area under the curve of righting levers (GZ curve) shall not be less than:—

i

0.055 metre-radians up to an angle of 30 degrees;

ii

0.090 metre-radians up to an angle of 40 degrees or such lesser angle of heel at which the lower edges of any openings in the hull, superstructures, deckhouses or companionways, being openings which cannot be closed weathertight, are immersed;

iii

0.030 metre-radians between the angles of heel of 30 degrees and 40 degrees or such lesser angle as defined in (ii) above;

b

the righting lever (GZ) shall be at least 0.20 metres 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 25 degrees;

d

in the upright position the transverse metacentric height (GM) shall not be less than 0.35 metres;

provided that, for vessels engaged on single or twin boom fishing the values of dynamic stability, righting lever and metacentric height given in sub-paragraphs (a), (b) and (d) respectively of this Rule shall be increased by 20%.

DBOILERS AND MACHINERY

General17

1

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply machinery, boilers and other pressure vessels shall be of a design and construction adequate for the service for which they are intended and be installed and protected so as to minimise any danger to persons on board.

2

In every such vessel machinery spaces shall be designed to provide safe and free access to all parts of the machinery which may require servicing at sea.

3

In every such vessel means shall be provided to prevent overpressure in any part of the machinery, boilers and other pressure vessels. Every boiler shall be provided with not less than two safety valves except that only one safety valve may be fitted if, having regard to the output or any other features of the boiler, adequate protection against overpressure is thereby provided.

4

In every such vessel machinery spaces which will be periodically unattended at sea shall be provided with proper alarm, detection and machinery control systems.

5

Prior to installation in every such vessel every boiler or other pressure vessel and its mountings shall be subjected to a hydraulic test to a pressure suitability in excess of the working pressure which will ensure it is adequate in strength and design for the intended service, having regard to:—

a

the design and the material of construction;

b

its intended purpose;

c

the working conditions under which it is intended to be used.

6

In every such vessel every boiler or other pressure vessel and its respective mountings shall be maintained in an efficient condition.

7

In every such vessel suitable provision shall be made to facilitate the cleaning and inspection of every pressure vessel.

Boiler feed systems18

1

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply every boiler which provides services essential for the safety of the vessel or which could become dangerous by the failure of its feed water supply, shall be provided with not less than two efficient and separate feed water systems so arranged that either of the systems may be opened for inspection or overhaul independently of the other. Means shall be provided which will prevent overpressure in any part of the systems.

2

In every such vessel where it is possible for oil to enter the feed water system of a boiler, arrangements shall be provided for interception of the oil in the feed water.

3

In every such vessel check valves, fittings and pipes in feed water systems shall be designed and constructed to withstand, with an adequate factor of safety, the maximum working stresses to which they may be subjected. Valves, fittings or pipes shall, prior to installation, be subjected to hydraulic test suitably in excess of the maximum working pressure of the boiler to which they are connected or of the maximum working pressure to which the feed line may be subjected, whichever shall be the greater.

4

In every such vessel boiler feed systems shall be maintained in an efficient condition and the feed pipes shall be adequately supported.

5

In every such vessel provision shall be made to ensure that an adequate reserve of feed water is available.

Steam pipe systems19

1

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply steam pipes and fittings connected thereto through which steam may pass shall be so designed and constructed as to withstand the maximum working stresses to which they may be subjected, with an adequate factor of safety, having regard to—

a

the material of which they are constructed, and

b

the working conditions under which they will be used.

2

Every steam pipe or fitting for every such vessel shall, prior to being put into service for the first time, be subjected to a hydraulic test to a pressure suitably in excess of the working pressure having regard to the requirements of paragraph (1) above.

3

In every such vessel every such steam pipe or fitting shall be maintained in an efficient condition.

4

In every such vessel steam pipes shall be adequately supported and in such a manner to avoid damage due to variation in temperature, vibration or otherwise.

5

In every such vessel means shall be provided for draining every steam range to ensure that the interior of each pipe in the range is kept free of water and that water hammer action will not occur under any foreseeable service conditions.

6

In every such vessel steam fittings, steam pipes, hot exhaust pipes and other hot surfaces shall be adequately insulated.

7

In every such vessel steam and exhaust pipes shall not be led through hold spaces unless adequately protected.

8

In every such vessel, where a steam range may receive steam from any source at a higher pressure than it can withstand with an adequate factor of safety, an efficient reducing valve, relief valve and pressure gauge shall be fitted.

9

In every such vessel flanges in steam pipe systems shall not be situated above or in the vicinity of switchboards or other electrical equipment except that where this is not practicable provision shall be made to prevent leakage damaging the equipment.

10

In every such vessel, in exhaust steam systems of machinery fitted with positive shut-off valves where the systems are not designed for the maximum inlet pressure, relief valves of sufficient capacity shall be fitted.

Machinery20

1

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply main and auxiliary machinery essential for the propulsion and safety of the vessel shall be provided with effective means of control. The machinery shall be capable of being brought into operation from the dead ship condition.

2

In every such vessel where risk from over-speeding of machinery exists provisions shall be made to ensure that the safe speed is not exceeded.

3

In every such vessel where main or auxiliary machinery or any parts of such machinery are subject to internal pressure such parts shall, prior to installation, be subjected to a hydraulic test to a pressure suitably in excess of the working pressure having regard to:—

a

the design and the material of which they are constructed;

b

the purpose for which they are intended to be used;

c

the working conditions under which they are intended to be used;

and such parts shall at any time thereafter be capable of withstanding such a test.

4

In every such vessel, main and auxiliary machinery essential for the safety and propulsion of the vessel shall be maintained in an efficient condition.

Means for going astern21

Every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply shall have adequate power for going astern to maintain proper control of the vessel in all foreseeable service conditions.

Shafts22

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply every shaft shall be so designed and constructed that it will withstand the maximum working stresses to which it may be subjected, with a factor of safety which is adequate having regard to:—

a

the material of which it is constructed;

b

the service for which it is intended;

c

the type and size of prime mover or motor by which it is driven or of which it forms a part.

Exhaust systems23

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply the exhaust pipes and silencers of every internal combustion engine shall be adequately cooled or lagged to protect persons on board the vessel.

Air pressure systems24

1

Every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply in which machinery essential for the propulsion and safety of the vessel is required to be started, operated or controlled solely by compressed air, shall be provided with an efficient air system, including an adequate number of air compressors and air storage receivers and shall be so arranged as to ensure that an adequate supply of compressed air is available under all foreseeable service conditions.

2

In every such vessel where the main engines are provided with means for air starting, the total air storage receiver capacity shall be adequate to start the main engine or engines not less than twelve times successively if the engine is reversible or not less than six times successively if the engine is non-reversible.

3

In every such vessel where only one air storage receiver is provided for starting the main engines separate provision shall be made for the storage of compressed air necessary for starting the main electric generating sets where these are provided with means for air starting.

4

In every such vessel air pressure systems and their component parts, other than pneumatic control systems, which are subjected to air pressure shall be designed and constructed to withstand, with an adequate factor of safety, the maximum working stresses to which they may be subjected. Prior to being put into service for the first time, air pressure pipes and fittings in such a system shall be subjected to a hydraulic test to twice the system's maximum working pressure.

5

In every such vessel air pressure systems shall be maintained in an efficient working condition.

6

In every such vessel adequate pressure relief arrangements shall be provided to prevent overpressure in any part of any such air pressure system, and shall also be provided, where water jackets of casings of air compressors and coolers might be subjected to dangerous overpressure due to leakage into them from air pressure parts.

7

In every such vessel provision shall be made to drain the system and to reduce to a minimum the entry of oil into any air pressure system.

8

In every such vessel provision shall be made to protect the system from the effects of internal explosion.

9

In every such vessel discharge pipes from starting air compressors shall lead directly to the starting air receivers. Starting air pipes from the air receivers to main or auxiliary engines shall be separate from the compressor discharge pipe system.

10

In every such vessel where an air pressure pipeline may receive air from any source at a higher pressure than it can withstand with an adequate factor of safety, an efficient reducing valve, relief valve and pressure gauge shall be fitted.

11

In every such vessel soldered joints shall not be used in air pressure pipe lines.

Cooling water systems—vessels of 24.4 metres in length and over25

1

In every vessel of 24.4 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply where machinery essential for the propulsion and safety of the vessel is dependent for its operation on an efficient cooling water system, there shall be provided at least one circulating pump and, except in the case of any emergency generator, provision shall be made so that in the event of the failure of the pump an alternative pump is available for the same duty. These pumps shall provide an adequate supply of cooling water to the cooling system.

2

In every such vessel the sea water suctions of cooling systems for essential internal combustion machinery shall be provided with strainers which can be cleaned without interruption of the supply of water.

3

In every such vessel provision shall be made to prevent overpressure in any part of the system and to indicate the proper working of the system.

Cooling water systems—vessels of 12 metres in length and over but less than 24.4 metres in length26

1

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over but less than 24.4 metres in length to which these Rules apply where cooling water services are essential for the running of the propelling machinery there shall be at least two means capable of supplying water to such services.

2

In every such vessel the sea water suctions of cooling systems for essential internal combustion machinery shall be provided with strainers which can be cleaned without interruption of the supply of water.

3

In every such vessel provision shall be made to prevent overpressure in any part of the system and to indicate the proper working of the system.

Oil systems for lubricating, cooling and control—vessels of 24.4 metres in length and over27

1

In every vessel of 24.4 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply where oil for lubrication, cooling or operation of the main propelling machinery, gearbox and its ancillary services is circulated under pressure, at least two pumps shall be provided for the circulation of such oil where:—

a

the output or combined output of the main engine or engines exceeds 500 b.h.p.; or

b

lubricating oil under pressure is the only means of control of machinery for the propulsion and safety of the vessel.

Each pump shall be adequate for circulating the lubricating oil. Only one pump shall be required for an emergency generator.

2

In every such vessel strainers which can be cleaned without interrupting the supply of such oil shall be provided.

3

In every such vessel provision shall be made to prevent overpressure and to indicate proper operation in every part of the system. Where the means of preventing overpressure is a relief valve it shall be in a closed circuit.

4

In every such vessel flexible pipes in lubricating oil, cooling oil and hydraulic systems shall be fit for their intended service.

5

In every such vessel oil level indicators in lubricating oil, cooling oil and hydraulic systems shall be accurate and fit for their intended service and shall be of a type which does not require piercing of the lower part of the tank. Tubular gauge glasses shall not be fitted to lubricating oil or hydraulic oil tanks but suitably protected gauges having flat glasses of substantial thickness and self-closing fittings may be used.

6

In every such vessel oil pressure pipes in lubricating oil, cooling oil and hydraulic systems shall be made of seamless steel, or other suitable material having flanged joints and shall be properly installed and be led at such a height above the inner bottom as will facilitate inspection and repair. Every such pipe, joint and its fittings other than pipes, joints and fittings in hydraulic control systems, shall, before being put into service for the first time, be subjected to a test by hydraulic pressure to 2.8 kilogrammes force per square centimetre or to twice the maximum working pressure, whichever is the greater, and shall at any time thereafter be capable of withstanding such a test.

7

In every such vessel oil pipes in lubricating oil, cooling oil and hydraulic systems, not being oil pressure pipes, shall be made of steel or other suitable material having flanged joints and shall be properly installed and be led at such a height above the inner bottom as will facilitate inspection and repair. Every such pipe, joint and its fittings other than pipes, joints and fittings in hydraulic control systems, shall, before being put into service for the first time, be subjected to a test by hydraulic pressure to 2.8 kilogrammes force per square centimetre or to twice the maximum working pressure, whichever shall be the greater, and shall at any time thereafter be capable of withstanding such a test.

Oil systems for lubricating, cooling and control—vessels of 12 metres in length and over but less than 24.4 metres in length28

1

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over but less than 24.4 metres in length to which these Rules apply where the output or combined output of the main engine or engines exceeds 500 b.h.p. and oil for lubrication, cooling or operation of the main propelling machinery and its ancillary services is circulated under pressure, provision shall be made for circulating such oil in the event of failure of a pump.

2

In every such vessel strainers capable of being readily dismantled for cleaning or replacement of the strainer element shall be provided.

3

In every such vessel adequate means shall be provided for indicating failure of the lubricating oil system.

4

In every such vessel flexible pipes in lubricating oil, cooling oil and hydraulic systems shall be fit for their intended service.

5

In every such vessel where tubular gauge glasses are fitted to lubricating oil or hydraulic oil tanks they shall be of substantial construction, adequately protected and fitted with self-closing arrangements on the tank.

6

In every such vessel pipes used to convey lubricating oil, cooling oil or hydraulic oil shall be made of seamless steel or other suitable material and shall be properly installed. Pipes, joints and fittings other than pipes, joints and fittings in hydraulic control systems, shall, before being put into service for the first time, be subjected to a test by hydraulic pressure to twice their maximum working pressure and at any time thereafter shall be capable of withstanding such a test.

Oil fuel installations (boilers and machinery)—general29

1

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply oil fuel used in boilers or machinery shall have a flash point of not less than 60°C (Closed Test), except that where the emergency source of electrical power is a generator driven by internal combustion type machinery having an independent fuel supply and with efficient starting arrangements, the oil fuel provided for this machinery shall have a flash point of not less than 43°C.

2

In every such vessel oil fuel tanks which are not built into the vessel's structure shall be properly constructed and be provided with save-alls or gutters. These tanks shall not be situated directly above boilers, heated surfaces, stairways, ladders, or electrical equipment other than unbroken runs of cable. Prior to installation these tanks shall be subjected to a hydraulic pressure test. Storage tanks or service tanks shall be tested to a head of water 300 millimetres in excess of the greatest head to which the tank may be subject when in service. In the case of a settling tank the required head of water shall not be less than 2.5 metres above the top of the tank.

3

In every such vessel adequate means shall be provided for sounding oil fuel tanks and means provided to prevent overpressure in such tanks. The sounding arrangements or oil level indicating gear fitted to settling tanks or daily service tanks shall not permit the escape of oil if these tanks are overfilled. Oil level indicators shall not allow oil to escape in the event of their being damaged.

4

In every such vessel air pipes shall be led from oil fuel tanks to the open air and the outlet shall be situated so that there will be no danger of fire or explosion resulting from the emergence of oil vapour from the pipe. Pipes shall be fitted with detachable wire gauze diaphragms of non-corrodible material.

Where pipes also serve as overflow pipes provision shall be made to prevent the overflow running into or near a boiler room, galley or other space where ignition may occur.

5

In every such vessel air pipes from oil fuel tanks and levelling pipes attached to tanks shall have a nett cross-sectional area not less than 1.25 times that of the filling pipes.

6

In every such vessel self-closing type drains shall be provided for the removal of water from oil fuel in storage tanks or settling tanks or in oily water separators.

7

In every such vessel pipes connected to any oil fuel storage, settling, or daily service tank, not being a double bottom tank, shall be fitted with a valve or cock which shall be secured to the tank to which it is connected and be capable of being closed from a readily accessible position outside the space in which the tank is situated provided that an inlet pipe may be fitted with a nonreturn valve secured to the tank.

8

In every such vessel valves forming part of the oil fuel system shall be designed and constructed to prevent the cover of the valve chest being slackened back or loosened when the valve is operated.

9

In every such vessel pumps forming part of the oil fuel system shall be separate from the feed pumps, bilge pumps and ballast pumps and the connection of any such pumps, and shall be provided with an efficient relief valve which shall be in closed circuit.

10

In every such vessel the means provided for the storage, distribution and utilisation of the fuel shall be such that the effective use of the engines can be maintained under all foreseeable service conditions.

11

In every such vessel where steam is generated for main propulsion or essential auxiliary machinery by burning oil fuel under pressure, not less than two oil fuel units shall be provided, each comprising a pressure pump, filters and a heater. The pump, filters and heater shall be of efficient design and substantial construction. Provision shall be made to prevent overpressure in any part of the oil fuel units. The parts of these oil fuel units which are subject to oil pressure and the joints thereof shall, before being put into service for the first time, be subjected to a test by hydraulic pressure to 28 kilogrammes force per square centimetre or twice their maximum working pressure, whichever is the greater, and shall at any time thereafter be capable of withstanding such a test. Relief valves fitted to prevent over-pressure in the oil fuel heater shall be in closed circuit. Where steam is used for heating oil fuel in bunkers, tanks, heaters or separators, exhaust drains shall be provided to discharge the condensate into an observation tank fitted with a manually controlled drain.

12

In every such vessel where a gravity oil fuel system is installed filters shall be provided and shall be capable of being cleaned without interrupting the supply of fuel oil.

13

In every such vessel equivalent arrangements to those set out in paragraph (12) above shall be provided in the fuel supply lines to main and auxiliary oil engines.

14

In every such vessel save-alls or gutters shall be provided under every oil fuel pump, filter and heater and in way of the furnace mouths to prevent escaping oil from coming into contact with boilers or other heated surfaces.

15

In every such vessel where flexible pipes are fitted in such systems, they shall be fit for their intended service.

16

In every such vessel fuel supply lines to main propulsion and essential auxiliary machinery shall be provided with filters so constructed that they may not be opened during use.

Oil fuel installations (boilers and machinery)—vessels of 24.4 metres in length and over30

1

In every vessel of 24.4 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply oil fuel shall be effectively isolated from other liquids. The oil fuel pumping arrangements shall permit the oil fuel to be transferred from any oil fuel storage tank or settling tank into another oil fuel storage tank or settling tank. Provision shall be made to prevent the accidental discharge or overflow of oil overboard. If drinking water or boiler feed water is stored in a tank adjacent to an oil fuel tank a coffer-dam shall be provided which will prevent contamination.

2

In every such vessel oil fuel tank sounding pipes shall not terminate in crew accommodation, but they may be installed in passage-ways.

3

In every such vessel oil fuel level indicators shall be accurate and fit for their intended service, and shall be of a type which does not require piercing of the lower part of the oil fuel tank. Tubular gauge glasses shall not be fitted to oil fuel tanks but suitably protected gauges having flat glasses of substantial thickness and self closing fittings may be used.

4

In every such vessel overflows from settling tanks and daily service tanks shall be led back to the storage tanks or to an overflow tank and means shall be provided to indicate when the tanks are overflowing.

5

In every such vessel where oil fuel tanks are alternatively used as liquid ballast tanks proper means shall be provided to isolate the oil fuel and ballast systems.

6

In every such vessel oil fuel filling stations shall be isolated from other spaces and be adequately drained and independently ventilated. Provision shall be made to prevent over-pressure in oil-filling pipe lines.

7

In every such vessel oil fuel pressure pipes shall be made of seamless steel or other suitable material having flanged joints and shall be properly installed and be led at such a height above the inner bottom as will facilitate inspection and repair. Every such pipe, joint and its fittings shall, before being put into service for the first time, be subjected to a test by hydraulic pressure to 28 kilogrammes force per square centimetre or to twice the maximum working pressure, whichever is the greater, and shall at any time thereafter be capable of withstanding such a test. Where such pipes are used for conveying heated oil they shall be situated in a position above the platform in well-lighted parts of the boiler room or engine room.

8

In every such vessel oil fuel pipes not being oil fuel pressure pipes shall be made of steel or other suitable material having flanged joints and shall be properly installed and be led at such a height above the inner bottom as will facilitate inspection and repair. Every such pipe, joint and its fittings shall, before being put into service for the first time, be subjected to a test by hydraulic pressure to 3.5 kilogrammes force per square centimetre or to twice the maximum working pressure, whichever shall be the greater, and shall at any time thereafter be capable of withstanding such a test.

9

In every such vessel steam heating pipes which may be in contact with oil shall be made of steel and, together with their joints, shall, before being put into service for the first time, be subjected to a test by hydraulic pressure to twice the maximum working pressure, and shall at any time thereafter be capable of withstanding such a test.

10

In every such vessel every suction pipe from any oil fuel tank situated above an inner bottom within a boiler room or engine room shall be fitted with a valve or cock secured to each tank to which the pipe is connected. Every such valve or cock fitted to an oil fuel suction pipe shall be so arranged that it may be closed both from the compartment in which it is situated and from a readily accessible position outside such compartment not likely to be cut off in the event of fire in that compartment. If any oil tank filling pipe is not connected to an oil fuel tank at or near the top of the tank, it shall be fitted with a non-return valve or with a valve or cock secured to the tank to which it is connected and so arranged that it may be closed from the compartment in which it is situated and also from a readily accessible position outside such compartment not likely to be cut off in the event of fire in that compartment.

11

In every such vessel master valves at the furnace fronts which control the supply of oil fuel to sets of burners shall be of quick-closing type and fitted in a readily accessible and conspicuous position. Provision shall be made to prevent oil from being turned on to any burner unless the burner has been correctly coupled up to the oil fuel supply line.

12

In every such vessel provision shall be made for oil fuel pressure pumps and transfer pumps to be stopped from a position outside the compartment in which the pumps are situated.

Oil fuel installations (boilers and machinery)—vessels of 12 metres in length and over but less than 24.4 metres in length31

1

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over but less than 24.4 metres in length to which these Rules apply oil fuel filling points shall be so arranged that oil fuel will not readily be spilled, overflow, drain or lodge in any space.

2

In every such vessel pipes used to convey fuel oil shall be made of seamless steel or other suitable material and shall be properly installed. Pipes, joints and fittings shall, before being put into service for the first time, be subjected to a test by hydraulic pressure to twice their maximum working pressure, and at any time thereafter shall be capable of withstanding such a test.

3

In every such vessel where tubular gauge glasses are fitted to oil fuel tanks they shall be of substantial construction, adequately protected and fitted with self-closing arrangements on the tank.

Oil fuel installations (cooking ranges and heating appliances)32

1

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply where cooking ranges or heating appliances within crew spaces are supplied with fuel from an oil tank, the tank shall be situated outside the space containing the cooking range or heating appliance and the supply of oil to the burners shall be capable of being controlled from outside that space. Ranges or burners using oil fuel having a flash point of less than 60°C (Closed Test) shall not be fitted. Means shall be provided to shut off the fuel supply automatically at the cooking range or heating appliance in the event of fire or if the combustion air supply fails. Such means shall require manual resetting in order to restore the fuel supply.

2

In every such vessel the oil tank supplying the cooking range or heating appliance shall be provided with an air pipe leading to the open air, and in such a position that there will be no danger of fire or explosion resulting from the emergence of oil vapour from the open end of the pipe. The open end shall be fitted with a detachable wire gauze diaphragm.

3

In every such vessel adequate means shall be provided for filling every such tank and for preventing overpressure.

Ventilation33

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply every space in which an oil fuel tank or any part of an oil fuel installation is situated shall be adequately ventilated.

Liquefied petroleum gas installations (cooking ranges and heating appliances)34

1

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply installations using liquefied petroleum gas shall be properly and safely fitted and fit for their intended service.

2

In every such vessel an odoriser shall be added to the gas to enable the presence of gas to be detected by smell, even when its concentration in air is below that of the lower limit of flammability.

3

In every such vessel containers holding liquefied petroleum gas shall be securely stowed on deck or in a well ventilated compartment situated on the deck, except that in any vessel of 24.4 metres in length and over, where deck stowage is not reasonably practicable, such gas containers may be stowed in spaces below deck, provided that such spaces are adequately ventilated and electrical equipment in such spaces is of flame-proof construction. Where drainage is provided from compartments containing such gas containers, drains shall lead directly overboard.

4

In every such vessel spaces containing cooking ranges or heating appliances which use liquefied petroleum gas shall not be fitted with openings leading directly below to accommodation spaces or their passageways, except that where this is not reasonably practicable and such openings are fitted mechanical exhaust ventilation trunked to within 300 millimetres of the deck adjacent to the appliance, together with adequate supply ventilation, shall be provided.

5

In every such vessel spaces where appliances consuming liquefied petroleum gas are used shall be adequately ventilated.

6

In every such vessel mechanical ventilation systems fitted to any space in which such gas containers or appliances are situated shall be of such design and construction as will eliminate the hazards due to sparking. The ventilation systems serving spaces containing such gas storage containers or gas-consuming appliances shall be separate from any other ventilation system.

7

In every such vessel where such gas consuming appliances are fitted below deck and for galleys in vessels of 60 metres in length and over mechanical exhaust ventilation shall be provided.

8

In every such vessel of 12 metres in length and over, every space containing such a gas consuming appliance shall be provided with gas detection and audible alarm equipment. The gas detection device shall be securely fixed in the lower part of the space in the vicinity of the gas consuming appliance. The alarm unit and indicating panel shall be situated outside the spaces containing the gas storage and consuming appliances.

9

In vessels of 12 metres in length and over but less than 24.4 metres in length to which these Rules apply where such gas consuming appliances are used in sleeping quarters or in spaces adjacent thereto, a flameproof audible alarm shall be fitted in the sleeping quarters in addition to the alarm required by paragraph (8) above.

10

In vessels of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply a device shall be fitted in the supply pipe from the gas container to the consuming appliance which will shut off the gas automatically in the event of loss of pressure in the supply line. The device shall be of a type which requires deliberate manual operation to re-set it to restore the gas supply. An automatic shut-off device which operates in the event of flame failure shall be fitted on all appliances consuming liquefied petroleum gas.

Storage of flammable liquids, toxic liquids, toxic gases and compressed gases35

1

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply cylinders containing flammable, toxic or other dangerous gases, and expended cylinders shall be properly stowed and secured on open decks, and all valves, pressure regulators and pipes leading from such cylinders shall be protected against damage. Such cylinders may be stowed in compartments which meet the requirements set out in paragraph (2) of this Rule.

2

In every such vessel highly flammable liquids, toxic liquids, toxic gases, and liquefied gases, other than liquefied petroleum gas shall be stored in compartments having direct access from open decks. Such compartments shall have boundary bulkheads constructed from non-combustible materials. Pressure adjusting devices and relief valves, if any, shall exhaust within the compartment. Where boundary bulkheads of such compartments adjoin other enclosed spaces they shall be gas tight and adequately insulated and provided with ventilation arrangements which are separate from other ventilation systems. Ventilation shall be arranged at high and low levels and the inlets and outlets of ventilators shall be positioned in safe areas and fitted with spark arresters.

3

In every such vessel electrical wiring and fittings shall not be installed within compartments containing highly flammable liquids or liquefied gases except where necessary for service within the space. Where such electrical fittings are installed they shall be suitable for use in a flammable atmosphere.

4

In every such vessel where cylinders containing flammable or other dangerous compressed gases are carried below deck, cylinders containing one type of compressed gas shall be stowed separately from cylinders containing another type. Compartments containing cylinders of such compressed gases shall not be used for stowage of other combustible products or for tools or objects not belonging to the gas distribution system.

EBILGE PUMPING ARRANGEMENTS

Requirements for vessels of 24.4 metres in length and over36

1

Every vessel of 24.4 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply shall be provided with:—

a

efficient bilge pumping plant and means for drainage so arranged that water entering any part of the hull, other than a space permanently appropriated for the carriage of fresh water, water ballast, oil fuel or liquid cargo and for which other efficient means of pumping or drainage are provided, can be pumped out through at least one suction pipe when the vessel is upright or is listed not more than 5 degrees either way. Wing suction shall be provided if necessary for this purpose. Arrangements shall be provided for an easy flow of water to the suction pipes.

Provided that where the safety of the vessel is not thereby impaired, the bilge pumping arrangements may be dispensed with in any particular compartment or compartments of any vessel or class of vessels;

b

arrangements for the drainage of all insulated compartments;

c

not less than two independent powered bilge pumps provided that:—

i

one such pump may be driven from the main engine;

ii

a ballast pump or other general service pump of adequate capacity may be used as an independent bilge pump;

iii

a properly installed bilge ejector in combination with a power driven pump may be provided as a substitute for one independent power driven bilge pump.

2

In every such vessel—

a

bilge pumps shall be self-priming. Pumps, other than hand pumps of the lever type and pumps provided for peak compartments only, shall, whether operated by hand or by power, be capable of drawing water from any space required by paragraph (1) above to be drained:

b

power bilge pumps shall be capable of giving a speed of water of not less than 2 metres per second through the main bilge pipe when its diameter is that determined by sub-paragraph 5(a) of this Rule. Each 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. The diameter of the direct suction shall be not less than that of the main bilge pipe. The direct suctions in the machinery space shall be so arranged that water may be pumped from each side of the space through direct suctions to independent bilge pumps;

c

one of the sea water pumps circulating each main engine shall be fitted with emergency bilge suction connections, which shall be provided with non-return valves, to the lowest drainage level in the machinery space, or as near thereto as is reasonably practicable. In vessels powered by steam the diameter of these connections shall be at least two-thirds of that of the main sea inlet. In motor vessels these connections shall be of the same diameter as the pump inlet. Where 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. Such emergency 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 adequate amount. The open end of such suctions or the strainer, if any, attached thereto shall be accessible for clearing. The spindles of the main sea inlet and the direct suction valves shall extend well above engine room platform level:

d

where hand bilge pumps are fitted they shall be either rotary, semirotary or lever operated and shall be operable from above the freeboard deck, and be so arranged that the bucket and tail valve can be withdrawn at all times.

3

In every such vessel distribution boxes, valves and cocks fitted in bilge pumping systems shall be in accessible positions.

4

In every such vessel—

a

pipes from the pumps for draining hold spaces or any part of the machinery space shall be independent of pipes which may be used for filling or emptying spaces in which water or oil is carried;

b

bilge pipes 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 equivalent material;

c

bilge suction pipes shall not be led through double bottom tanks unless they are of heavy gauge steel construction with a minimum number of joints and shall be tested after fitting to a pressure of 3.5 kilogrammes force per square centimetre;

d

bilge suction pipes shall be fitted with flanged joints and shall be properly secured in position and provided with expansion joints or bends. Pipes situated in fish holds, chain lockers or other positions where they are liable to damage shall be adequately protected.

5

In every such vessel—

a

the internal diameter of main and branch bilge suction pipes shall be determined to the nearest 5 millimetres by the following formulae:

Image_r00001

Image_r00002

where dm = internal diameter of the main bilge suction pipes in millimetres;

db = internal diameter of the branch bilge suction pipes in millimetres;

L = Principal Length of vessel in metres;

B = Principal Breadth of vessel in metres;

D = Principal Depth of vessel in metres;

C = Length of compartment in metres;

b

the inside diameter of the bilge main and bilge suction directly connected to the pump shall be not less than 50 millimetres;

c

bilge and ballast pumping systems shall be so arranged as to prevent water passing from the sea or from water ballast spaces into holds or into machinery spaces or from one watertight compartment to another. The bilge connection to any pump which draws from the sea or from water ballast spaces shall be fitted with either a non-return valve or a cock which cannot be opened simultaneously either to the bilges and to the sea or to bilges and water ballast spaces. Valves in bilge distribution boxes shall be of a non-return type;

d

any bilge pipes piercing a collision bulkhead shall be fitted with a screw-down valve at the bulkhead with remote control from above the deck at which the bulkhead terminates, with an indicator showing the position of the valve. If the valve is fitted on the after side of the bulkhead and is readily accessible under all service conditions the remote control may be dispensed with.

6

In every such vessel bilge suctions in the machinery space shall be led from readily accessible mud boxes placed wherever practicable above the level of the working floor of the 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 suction pipe. Strum boxes shall be so constructed that they can be cleared without breaking any joint of the suction pipe.

7

In every such vessel—

a

subject to the requirements of sub-paragraph (b) below, the tanks forming part of the structure of the vessel 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 in readily accessible positions above the vessel's freeboard deck;

b

sounding pipes for bilges, coffer dams and double bottom tanks being bilges, coffer dams and tanks situated in the machinery space, shall extend to readily accessible positions above the vessel's freeboard deck 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 bilges shall not be less than 65 millimetres in diameter.

Requirements for vessels of 12 metres in length and over but less than 24.4 metres in length37

1

Subject to paragraphs (2) and (3) below every vessel of 12 metres in length and over but less than 24.4 metres in length to which these Rules apply shall be provided with:—

a

efficient means of draining any compartment, other than a compartment appropriated for the storage of oil or fresh water, when the vessel is upright or is listed not more than five degrees either way. A centre line suction shall be provided in the engine room and in the fish hold to the lowest drainage level of the compartment.

Provided that:—

i

if the vessel is divided into watertight compartments the bilge suctions and means of drainage shall be so arranged that any water entering any main watertight compartment can be pumped out through at least one bilge suction situated in such a compartment;

ii

if the vessel is not divided into watertight compartments the means of drainage shall be so arranged that any water entering the vessel can drain to at least one bilge suction;

b

not less than two bilge pumps—

i

having a total capacity of not less than 455 litres per minute if the vessel is 20 metres in length and over but less than 24.4 metres in length. At least one such pump shall be a power pump having a capacity of not less than 230 litres per minute. Where two power pumps are provided each pump shall be independently driven;

ii

having a total capacity of not less than 275 litres per minute if the vessel is 15 metres in length and over but less than 20 metres in length. At least one such pump shall be a power pump having a capacity of not less than 140 litres per minute. Where two power pumps are provided each pump shall be independently driven;

iii

one of which shall be a hand pump if the vessel is less than 15 metres in length. Each pump shall have a capacity of not less than 90 litres per minute.

2

In any such vessel a properly installed bilge ejector in combination with a power driven pump may be provided as a substitute for one power driven bilge pump.

3

In any such vessel a general service pump of sufficient capacity may be used as an independent bilge pump. Where more than one pump is installed one of the bilge pumps may be driven from the main engine.

4

In every such vessel—

a

bilge pumps shall be self-priming. Pumps other than hand pumps of the lever type shall, whether operated by hand or power, be capable of drawing water from any space required by sub-paragraph (1)(a) above;

b

bilge pumps may be arranged for automatic starting provided that the bilge pumping system is fit for its intended purpose;

c

where hand operated bilge pumps are fitted they shall be either rotary, semi-rotary or lever operated and shall be operable from the freeboard deck and shall be so arranged that the bucket and tail valve can be withdrawn for examination and overhaul at all times.

5

In every such vessel distribution boxes, valves and cocks fitted in bilge pumping systems shall be in accessible positions.

6

In every such vessel—

a

pipes from the pumps for draining hold spaces or any part of the machinery space shall be independent of pipes which may be used for filling or emptying spaces in which water or oil is carried;

b

bilge pipes shall be of steel or other suitable material having flanged or screwed joints, provided that flexible piping, if accessible for inspection and jointed with suitable clamps, may be installed where necessary.

7

In every such vessel—

a

if the vessel is 15 metres in length and over but less than 24.4 metres in length bilge branch suction pipes shall be not less than 50 millimetres inside diameter;

b

if the vessel is less than 15 metres in length bilge branch suction pipes shall be not less than 38 millimetres inside diameter;

c

where a bilge main is fitted the cross sectional area of the bilge main shall be at least equal to the aggregate cross sectional area of the two largest branch suctions connected to the bilge main;

d

bilge pumping systems shall be arranged in accordance with Rule 36(5)(c) of these Rules. Non-return valves shall be fitted in the discharge lines of hand operated bilge pumps unless the pumps are of suitable design and discharge directly onto the deck.

8

In every such vessel bilge suctions shall be fitted with readily accessible strainers. The total area of the perforation in the strainer shall be not less than twice the cross sectional area of the bilge pipe.

FELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT AND INSTALLATIONS

General38

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply electrical equipment and installations including any electrical means of propulsion shall be such that the vessel and all persons on board are protected against electrical hazards.

Distribution systems39

1

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply main and emergency switchboards shall be suitably guarded and so arranged as to provide easy access without danger to any person. Adequate non-conducting mats or gratings shall be provided. Exposed parts which may have a voltage between conductors or to earth exceeding 250 volts direct current or 55 volts alternating current shall not be installed on the face of any switch-board or control panel.

2

In every such vessel hull return shall not be used for the power, heat and light distribution systems.

3

In every such vessel where two or more generating sets may be in operation at the same time for providing the auxiliary services essential for the propulsion and safety of the vessel each generator shall be arranged to supply such essential services and means shall be provided to trip automatically sufficient non-essential load when the total current exceeds the connected generator capacity.

4

In every such vessel cable systems and electrical equipment shall be so installed as to reduce interference with radio reception to a minimum.

Electrical precautions40

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.

Requirements for vessels of 24.4 metres in length and over41

1

In every vessel of 24.4 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply where electric power is the only power for maintaining auxiliary services essential for the propulsion or safety of the vessel there shall be provided two or more generating sets of such power that the aforesaid services can be operated when any one of the sets is out of service.

2

In every such vessel where the main source of electric power is situated below the uppermost continuous deck and within the machinery casings there shall be provided outside the machinery casings a self-contained emergency source of electric power so arranged as to ensure its functioning in the event of failure by reason of fire or otherwise of the main electrical installation.

3

In every such vessel where the main source of electric power is situated above the uppermost continuous deck and outside the machinery casings such source of power shall be capable of operating simultaneously for a period of at least 3 hours the services indicated in paragraph (5) below in addition to any other electrical load.

4

In any such vessel where properly installed electric navigation lights supplied from the emergency source of power are provided in addition to the normal navigation lights oil navigation lights need not be carried.

5

Subject to paragraph (9) below, in every such vessel the emergency source of electric power shall be capable of operating simultaneously for a period of at least three hours the following services:—

a

the general alarm if electrically operated;

b

the watertight doors if they are electrically or electro-hydraulically operated and their indicators and the warning signals if electrically operated;

c

emergency lights at launching stations and over-side, in all alleyways, stairways and exits, in the machinery spaces and in the place where the emergency source of electric power, if any, is situated; and in control stations for radio, navigation or other services essential to the safety of the vessel;

d

emergency navigation lights fitted in accordance with paragraph (4) above, communication equipment, fire detecting systems and signals which may be required in an emergency, and the daylight signaling lamp.

6

In every such vessel the emergency source of electric power shall be either accumulator (storage) batteries capable of supplying the services set out in paragraph (5) above without being recharged or suffering an excessive voltage drop, or a generator driven by internal combustion type machinery with an independent fuel supply and with efficient starting arrangements. The fuel provided for such machinery shall have a flash point of not less than 43°C. (Closed Test).

7

In every such vessel the emergency source of electric power shall be so arranged that it will operate efficiently when the vessel is listed 221/2 degrees either way and when the trim of the vessel is 10 degrees from a level keel.

8

In every such vessel adequate means shall be provided for the regular testing of the emergency source of electric power and its associated circuits.

9

In any vessel of 24.4 metres in length and over but less than 45 metres in length to which these Rules apply adequate alternative means of supply for the emergency lighting systems set out in sub-paragraph (5)(c) above may be installed.

Requirements for vessels of 12 metres in length and over but less than 24.4 metres in length42

1

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over but less than 24.4 metres in length to which these Rules apply where electric power is the only means for maintaining auxiliary services essential for the safety of the vessel there shall be provided at least two independent sources of electric power, one of which may be main engine driven. Such auxiliary services shall be capable of being operated when any one of the sources of electric power is out of operation.

2

In every such vessel the alternative source of electric power required by this Rule shall be capable of operating simultaneously for a period of at least 3 hours the following services:—

a

the vessel's emergency lights in stairways and exits, in the machinery space and wheelhouse and at the liferaft storage position;

b

emergency communications and signals equipment if they are operated from the vessel's main source of electric power;

c

the daylight signalling lamp if it is operated by the vessel's main source of electric power.

3

In any such vessel the alternative source of electric power may be accumulator (storage) batteries capable of supplying the services set out in paragraph (2) above without being recharged or suffering an excessive voltage drop.

4

In every such vessel the alternative source of electric power shall be so arranged that it will operate efficiently when the vessel is listed 22 1/2 degrees either way and when the trim of the vessel is 10 degrees from a level keel.

5

In every such vessel adequate means shall be provided for the regular testing of the alternative source of electric power and its associated circuits.

6

In any such vessel adequate alternative means of supply for the emergency lighting systems set out in paragraph (2)(a) above may be installed.

Accumulator (storage) batteries and associated charging equipment43

1

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply where accumulator batteries provide the auxiliary electric power such batteries shall, together with dynamos or alternating current generators, be of sufficient capacity to provide an adequate reserve of electric power under all foreseeable service conditions. The batteries, their means of charging, charging voltage and current protection arrangements shall be effective and fit for their intended service.

2

In every such vessel not less than two dynamos or two alternating current generators each being capable of supplying sufficient auxiliary power for the safety of the vessel and maintaining the charge rate for the vessel's batteries shall be provided as a means of charging those batteries. Dynamos or alternating current generators may be driven by the main engine, subject to compliance with the provisions of paragraph (6) below.

3

In every such vessel the output of any dynamo or alternating current generator driven by a variable speed engine shall be based on the lowest operational speed of the engine. Throughout the entire operating engine speed range the dynamo or alternating current generator shall operate within its safe speed range.

4

In every such vessel accumulator (storage) batteries shall be housed in boxes, trays or compartments which are constructed to provide protection of the batteries from damage and ventilated to reduce the accumulation of explosive gas to a minimum. Where fans are fitted in exhaust ducts from compartments assigned principally to the storage of batteries they shall be of a flameproof type. Electrical arrangements liable to are shall not be installed in any compartment used principally for the storage of accumulator batteries. Lead acid and nickel alkaline batteries shall not be housed in the same space.

5

In every such vessel where accumulator batteries are used for starting the main engine not less than two batteries shall be available and each battery shall be capable of supplying adequate starting power and shall be of sufficient capacity to start the main engine or engines not less than twelve times successively if the engine is reversible or not less than six times successively if the engine is non-reversible, unless alternative means of starting are provided.

6

In every vessel of 19 metres in length and over but less than 24.4 metres in length to which these Rules apply one battery charging dynamo or alternating current generator shall be driven by an independent prime mover.

GMISCELLANEOUS PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

Watertight doors44

1

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply the number of doors fitted in any watertight bulkhead shall be as few as reasonably practicable and every such door shall be efficiently constructed and be watertight when closed.

2

In every such vessel subject to the provisions of paragraph (3) below doors of the sliding type, whether controlled manually or otherwise, shall be operable by efficient gear both at the door itself and from an accessible position above the weather deck and the remote controls for such operation shall be situated outside the compartment containing the door unless such a position is inconsistent with the efficient arrangement of the necessary gearing.

3

In every such vessel where there is access from the lower part of a machinery space to a watertight shaft tunnel the access opening shall be provided with a sliding watertight door which shall be capable of being operated from each side of the door itself.

4

In every such vessel means shall be provided at remote operating positions to indicate when a sliding door is closed.

5

In every such vessel doors of the hinged type shall be capable of being operated from each side of the door itself.

6

In every such vessel all doors shall be capable of being efficiently operated when the vessel is listed up to 15 degrees either way.

Steering gear—vessels of 24.4 metres in length and over fitted with rudders45

1

Every vessel of 24.4 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply shall be fitted with efficient main steering gear, which shall be power operated in vessels over 45 metres in length, and efficient auxiliary steering gear. No auxiliary steering gear shall be required where suitable duplicate steering gear power units and their connections are fitted in a satisfactory manner and—

a

each power unit complies with the requirements of paragraph (2)(b) below;

b

each power unit enables the steering gear to meet the requirements of paragraph (2)(a) below.

2

In every such vessel—

a

the main steering gear, rudder and associated fittings shall be adequate to steer the vessel at maximum ahead service speed and shall be so designed that they are not damaged at maximum astern speed or by maneouvring during fishing operations;

b

the auxiliary steering gear shall be capable of being brought rapidly into action and shall be adequate to enable the vessel to be steered at navigable speed.

3

In every such vessel, the main steering gear shall be capable of putting the rudder over from 35° on one side to 30° on the other in 30 seconds when the vessel is at maximum ahead service speed with the rudder totally submerged and, if manually operated, shall be designed to prevent violent recoil of the steering wheel.

4

Every such vessel shall be so constructed that the person steering from the main wheelhouse control position has a clear view ahead.

5

Every such vessel which is fitted with power operated steering gear shall have a rudder position indicator in the wheelhouse.

Steering gear—vessels of 12 metres in length and over but less than 24.4 metres in length fitted with rudders46

1

Every vessel of 12 metres in length and over but less than 24.4 metres in length to which these Rules apply shall be provided with efficient main steering gear and auxiliary means of steering.

2

In every such vessel—

a

the main steering gear including the rudder and associated fittings shall be of adequate strength and capable of steering the vessel at maximum ahead service speed and shall be so designed that they are not damaged at maximum astern speed or by maneouvring during fishing operations;

b

the auxiliary means of steering shall be capable of being brought rapidly into action and shall enable the vessel to be steered at a navigable speed.

3

In every such vessel the main steering gear shall be capable of turning the rudder from 35° on one side to 30° on the other in 30 seconds when the vessel is at navigable speed and from 20° on one side to 20° on the other in 30 seconds when the vessel is at maximum service speed, with the rudder totally submerged.

4

Every such vessel shall be so constructed that the person steering has a clear view ahead when at the principal steering station.

5

Every such vessel which is fitted with power operated steering gear shall have a rudder position indicator in the wheelhouse.

Steering gear—vessels of 12 metres in length and over fitted with steering devices other than rudders47

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply which is fitted with a steering device other than a rudder the construction and operation of such a device shall be adequate and suitable for its intended purpose.

Electrical and Electro-hydraulic steering gear48

1

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply where electrical or electro-hydraulic steering gear is fitted, indicators shall be provided which will show when the power units of such steering gear are in operation. These indicators shall be situated in the machinery control room or other suitable positions and in the wheelhouse.

2

In every vessel of 45 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply—

a

electrical and electro-hydraulic steering gear shall be served by two circuits fed from the main switchboard, one of which may pass through an emergency switchboard if one is provided. Each circuit shall have adequate capacity for supplying all the motors which are normally connected to it and which operate simultaneously. Where transfer arrangements are provided in the steering gear room to permit either circuit to supply any motor or combination of motors, the capacity of each circuit shall be adequate for the most severe load condition. The circuits shall be separated as far apart as is reasonably practicable throughout their length;

b

short circuit protection only shall be provided for such circuits and motors.

3

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply where electric power is the only source of power for both main and auxiliary steering gear the provisions of paragraph (2) above shall apply except that where auxiliary steering gear is powered by a motor primarily intended for other services suitable overload protection may be fitted.

Communication between wheelhouse and engine room—vessels of 24.4 metres in length and over49

Every vessel of 24.4 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply shall be provided with two separate means of communicating orders from the wheelhouse to the engine room control platform. One of the means shall be an engine room telegraph except where the means of propulsion are directly controlled from the wheelhouse.

Controllable pitch propellers50

Where any vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply is equipped with a controllable pitch propeller the propeller and its control gear shall be adequate having regard to the intended service of the vessel.

Refrigerating plants51

1

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply refrigerating plants shall be of a design and construction adequate for the service for which they are intended and shall be so installed and protected as to reduce to a minimum any danger to persons on board.

2

In every such vessel ammonia and methylchloride shall not be used as refrigerants.

Anchors and chain cables52

Every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply shall be equipped with anchors and chain cables sufficient in number, weight and strength, having regard to the vessel's size and intended service except that wire rope of suitable strength may be substituted for chain cable provided that a suitable length and weight of chain cable is attached between the wire rope and the anchor. Where an anchor weighs more than 68 kilogrammes a windlass or a suitable winch normally used for fishing operations shall be provided for working the anchor and shall be maintained in effective working order. Anchor and chain cables with which the vessel is equipped in accordance with this Rule shall comply with the requirements of the Anchor and Cables Rules, 19708 so far as those Rules are applicable to that anchor and chain cable.

Spare gear53

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply adequate spare gear shall be provided for main and auxiliary machinery and electrical equipment and installations of the vessel having regard to the intended service of the vessel.

Winches, tackles and lifting gear54

Every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply shall be provided with winches, tackles and lifting gear properly installed having regard to the intended service of the vessel.

HSTRUCTURAL FIRE PROTECTION AND FIRE DETECTION

Structural fire protection—general55

Every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply shall be so constructed and equipped that there is no substantial fire risk to the vessel or to persons on board the vessel.

Structural fire protection—vessels with hulls constructed of steel or other equivalent material56

1

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply, the hull of which is constructed of steel or other equivalent material, the superstructure, structural bulkheads, decks and deckhouses shall also be constructed of steel or other suitable material, having regard to the risk of fire.

2

In every such vessel the bulkheads and decks separating accommodation spaces, service spaces, control stations and emergency firepump space from machinery spaces shall be constructed and insulated to A. 60 standard, provided that the provisions of this paragraph shall not apply to spaces where the fire risk is minimal.

3

In every such vessel the bulkheads of corridors serving accommodation spaces, other than bulkheads required to meet the provisions of paragraph (2) above, shall be formed of non-combustible B Class divisions extending from deck to deck.

4

In every such vessel interior stairways serving accommodation spaces, service spaces or control stations shall be constructed of steel. In vessels of 24·4 metres in length and over such stairways shall be within enclosures formed of steel, other equivalent material, or non-combustible B Class divisions, except that a stairway connecting only two decks may be enclosed at one deck only.

5

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply the number of openings in the bulkheads and decks referred to in paragraph (2) above shall be as few as reasonably practicable. Such openings shall be fitted with closing arrangements which provide protection equivalent to the surrounding structure in resisting fire. In vessels less than 24·4 metres in length the doors provided in casings of the main propelling machinery and boiler spaces shall be self-closing when such casings extend at least 1·8 metres above the freeboard deck.

6

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply the number of openings in the bulkheads and decks referred to in paragraphs (3) and (4) above shall be as few as reasonably practicable and fitted with closing arrangements which provide protection equivalent to the surrounding structure in resisting fire. Doors fitted to stairway enclosures shall be selfclosing and arrangements, where provided, for holding open the doors shall be such that the doors close automatically in the event of fire.

7

In every such vessel lift trunks in accommodation and service spaces shall be constructed of steel or equivalent material and the openings therein shall be provided with adequate means of closing which will contain smoke and draughts within the lift trunks and which provide protection equivalent to the surrounding structure in resisting fire.

8

In every such vessel boundary bulkheads and decks of spaces containing emergency sources of power and such bulkheads and decks which separate galleys, paint rooms, lamp-rooms or store-rooms containing flammable materials from accommodation spaces, service spaces or control stations shall be constructed to A.60 standard. Bulkheads, other than boundary bulkheads, to paint rooms, lamp-rooms or any other store-rooms containing flammable materials shall be constructed of steel or equivalent material. Entrances to store-rooms containing highly flammable materials or products shall be from the open deck and the materials or products shall be stored in sealed containers, provided that such an entrance may lead into a passageway if the closing arrangements are adequate.

9

In every vessel of 24·4 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply bulkheads, linings, ceilings and the support grounds in accommodation spaces, service spaces and control stations shall be constructed of non-combustible material, except that such bulkheads, linings and ceilings may have a combustible veneer the thickness of which shall not exceed 1·5 millimetres.

10

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply concealed surfaces behind bulkheads, ceilings, panellings and linings in accommodation spaces, service spaces and control stations, together with all exposed surfaces therein shall be such that a Class 1 or Class 2 surface spread of flame shall not be exceeded. Paints, varnishes and other finishings used on these exposed surfaces shall also be such that a Class 1 or Class 2 surface spread of flame shall not be exceeded.

11

In every such vessel deck coverings within accommodation spaces, service spaces and control stations shall be of a type which will not readily ignite.

12

In every such vessel curtains, other suspended textile materials and floor coverings shall have adequate fire resistant qualities.

13

In every such vessel spaces enclosed behind ceilings, panellings or linings in accommodation spaces, service spaces and control stations shall be suitably sub-divided by close fitting draught stops situated not more than 7 metres apart.

14

In every such vessel pipes conveying oil or other combustible liquids or compressed air shall be constructed from steel or other suitable material. Jointing materials used shall be such that they shall not be rendered ineffective by heat.

15

In every such vessel overboard scuppers, discharges or other outlets situated below the freeboard deck shall be constructed of steel or other suitable material.

16

In every such vessel the hinged portions of skylights serving spaces containing either main propulsion machinery, oil-fired boilers or auxiliary internal combustion machinery shall be capable of being operated from inside and outside such spaces.

17

In every such vessel insulation in accommodation spaces, service spaces, control stations and machinery spaces shall be of non-combustible material and such insulation, fitted on the inside of machinery spaces in positions where oil spillage or the emission of oil vapours may arise, shall have exposed surfaces impervious to oils or oil vapours.

18

In every such vessel insulation where fitted in refrigerated compartments or fish holds shall be non-combustible unless the exposed surfaces thereof are protected by close fitting cladding.

19

In any such vessel insulation to refrigerated compartments within accommodation spaces need not be non-combustible provided the exposed surfaces are protected by non-combustible cladding.

20

In every vessel of 24·4 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply an automatic fire detection and alarm system complying with the requirements of Rule 111 of these Rules shall be provided to compartments within accommodation spaces remote from the control stations.

Structural fire protection—vessels with hulls constructed of a glass reinforced plastic57

1

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply, the hull of which is constructed of glass reinforced plastic, the hull, superstructure, structural bulkheads, decks and deckhouses shall be provided with fire-resistant properties.

2

In every such vessel the following structures shall be so insulated and constructed as to meet a B.30 standard:—

a

the internal surfaces of the deckhead, boundary bulkheads, side shell down to light waterline level and the casings of the main machinery space;

b

the adjacent deck areas and bulkheads forming the enclosures to stairways serving accommodation spaces, service spaces or control stations, except that:—

i

all stairways shall be constructed of steel;

ii

a stairway leading between two decks may be enclosed at one deck only;

c

bulkheads and decks enclosing the control stations and corridors serving accommodation spaces, service spaces and control stations.

3

In every such vessel lift trunks in accommodation and service spaces shall be provided with adequate means of closing which will contain smoke and draughts within the lift trunk.

4

In every such vessel structures enclosing the galley and similar spaces adjacent to or within the accommodation spaces, service spaces or control stations shall be adequately insulated.

5

In every such vessel exposed surfaces within accommodation spaces, service spaces, control stations or machinery spaces other than those required to be insulated in accordance with paragraphs (2) and (4) above shall have a final layer of suitable fire retardant resin or be coated with a suitable fire retardant paint, except that the foregoing provisions of this paragraph shall not apply to surface laminates which are self-extinguishing.

6

In every such vessel the number of openings in the bulkheads and decks shall be as few as reasonably practicable and fitted with closing arrangements which provide protection equivalent to the surrounding structure in resisting fire. Doors fitted to stairway enclosures shall be self-closing and arrangements, where provided, for holding open the doors shall be such that the doors close automatically in the event of fire. Doorways fitted to casings situated above the machinery spaces and extending above the free board deck shall be fitted with closing appliances of the self-closing type.

7

In every such vessel insulation provided within refrigerated compartments or insulated fish-holds shall be non-combustible unless the exposed surfaces of such insulation are protected by close fitting cladding which shall be non-combustible where fitted in spaces containing fire hazards.

8

In every such vessel where ceilings, panellings or linings are fitted in accommodation spaces, service spaces or control stations the requirements of Rule 56(10) and (13) of these Rules shall apply to such ceilings, panellings or linings.

9

In every such vessel exhaust pipes and ducts which are liable to become heated shall be adequately insulated and properly positioned.

10

In every such vessel deck coverings shall comply with the requirements of Rule 56(11) of these Rules.

11

In every vessel of 24·4 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply an automatic fire detection and alarm system complying with the requirements of Rule 111 of these Rules shall be provided to compartments within accommodation spaces and service spaces remote from the control stations.

Structural fire protection—vessels with hulls constructed of wood58

1

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply, the hull of which is constructed of wood:—

a

the following structures shall be constructed from steel or other equivalent material in the propelling machinery space:—

i

the casings;

ii

the beams supporting that part of the deck which forms the crown of this space, except the half-beams and carlings which may be of hard wood and of substantial section;

b

bulkheads which separate the machinery spaces from a adjacent accommodation spaces or control stations shall be constructed of steel, other equivalent material or non-combustible material capable of meeting a B.15 standard. Access doors shall be close fitting and provide protection equivalent to the bulkhead in resisting fire;

c

the deck of a wheelhouse or control station which forms the crown of the machinery space shall be constructed of steel or other equivalent material.

2

In every such vessel where cooking or heating appliances are fitted in galleys, service spaces or any space adjacent to or within accommodation spaces and adjacent to wood structure, such surrounding structure shall be adequately insulated.

3

In every such vessel ladders or stairways forming means of escape from below deck shall be constructed of steel and the deck openings shall be fitted with closing appliances which provide protection equivalent to the structure in resisting fire.

4

In accommodation spaces, service spaces, control stations and machinery spaces in such vessels, paints, varnishes and other finishings used on exposed surfaces shall be such that a Class 1 or Class 2 surface spread of flame shall not be exceeded.

5

In every such vessel products and materials which produce smoke or toxic products when exposed to fire shall not be stored in machinery spaces, except those products and materials necessary for operating the machinery.

6

In every such vessel insulation provided within refrigerated compartments or insulated fish-holds shall be non-combustible unless the exposed surfaces of such insulation are protected by close fitting cladding which shall be non-combustible where fitted in spaces containing fire hazards.

7

In every such vessel the number of openings in the bulkheads and decks shall be a minimum and fitted with closing arrangements which provide protection equivalent to the surrounding structure in resisting fire. Doors in casings extending at least 1·8 metres above the crown of machinery spaces on the freeboard deck shall be fitted with closing appliances of the self-closing type.

8

In every such vessel exhaust pipes and ducts which are liable to become heated shall be adequately insulated and properly positioned.

9

In every such vessel deck coverings shall comply with the requirements of Rule 56(11) of these Rules.

10

In every vessel of 24·4 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply an automatic fire detection and alarm system complying with the requirements of Rule 111 of these Rules shall be provided to compartments within accommodation spaces and service spaces remote from the control stations.

Ventilation systems59

1

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply adequate means shall be provided for stopping fans and closing main inlet and outlet openings of ventilation systems from a position outside the spaces served by the ventilation systems.

2

In every such vessel adequate means shall be provided for closing funnel ventilation openings.

3

Subject to paragraph (5) below, in every such vessel ventilation systems serving main machinery spaces shall not pass through accommodation spaces, service spaces or control stations.

4

Subject to paragraph (5) below, in every such vessel ventilation systems serving accommodation spaces, service spaces or control stations shall not pass through main machinery spaces.

5

In every such vessel the requirements of paragraphs (3) and (4) above shall not apply where suitable materials are used in the construction of the ventilation systems and proper means provided to preserve the integrity of the fire divisions.

6

In every such vessel ventilation openings shall not be fitted in doors and bulkheads which form part of stairway enclosures:

provided that such openings may be provided in cabin doors which form a fire division if they are situated in the lower portion of the door.

7

In every such vessel, where reasonably practicable, ventilation ducts serving stairway enclosures required to be ventilated shall not serve any other space.

8

In every such vessel exhaust ventilation systems from galleys shall be provided with a grease trap and those which pass through accommodation spaces, service spaces or control stations shall be constructed of steel insulated to A.30 standard.

9

In every such vessel ventilation systems serving propulsion, essential auxiliary machinery spaces and cargo refrigerating machinery spaces shall be independent of other systems and shall provide adequate ventilation.

10

In every such vessel adequate ventilation systems shall be provided to store-rooms containing flammable products, gas cylinders or other dangerous materials. Each system shall be self-contained and the inlet and outlet openings shall be positioned in safe areas and fitted with spark arresters.

11

In every such vessel suitable material shall be used in the construction of all ventilation systems.

Means of escape60

1

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply stairways, ladders and passageways shall be arranged to provide ready means of escape from crew accommodation spaces and access to positions on deck or decks where the life saving appliances will be available for use.

2

In every such vessel at least two means of escape, which may include the normal means of access, shall be provided from accommodation, service or working spaces situated on any one deck level within either watertight or fire resistant boundaries, except that:—

a

in vessels less than 24·4 metres in length this provision shall apply to the compartments situated beneath the freeboard deck other than fish-holds;

b

only one means of escape may be provided where one such means is adequate having regard to the number of crew and the size of the space involved.

3

In vessels of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply, as far as is reasonably practicable, the means of escape provided to meet the requirements of paragraph (2) above shall be so arranged that the deck may be reached without passing through spaces containing a fire hazard. Closing arrangements provided to all openings forming part of an escape route shall be capable of being operated from each side. Such means of escape from spaces which are situated below a complete deck shall be of an enclosed type.

4

In every such vessel at least two suitably located means of escape shall be provided from main machinery spaces except where the size of the machinery space renders this impracticable. Where ladders are provided for escape they shall be of steel. In vessels of 60 metres and over in length one of these ladders shall be completely enclosed from the lower part of the machinery space and lead to a safe position outside this space. Where a door constructed of steel or equivalent material which is capable of being operated from both sides provides access to a safe route from the lower part of the machinery space to the embarkation deck no such enclosure need be provided.

5

In every such vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply lift trunks shall not be a means of escape for the purpose of these Rules.

Space heaters and cooking stoves61

1

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply electric space heaters, where provided, shall be so constructed and fitted as to reduce the fire risk to a minimum and where such heaters are situated on decks or bulkheads the structure of such decks or bulkheads shall be protected by non-combustible material. Heaters with exposed elements and open flame solid fuel heaters shall not be provided.

2

In every such vessel heating stoves and other similar appliances shall be secured in position and their exhausts, together with the surrounding structure, provided with adequate fire protection. The exhausts of stoves shall be provided with ready means of cleaning. The dampers fitted in exhausts for controlling draught shall provide an adequate flow of air when in the closed position. Where ventilators are used to provide an adequate flow of air to spaces in which such stoves are installed, these ventilators shall not be fitted with means of closing.

3

In every such vessel open flame gas heating appliances shall not be fitted except where used as cooking stoves. Adequate ventilation shall be provided to spaces containing such cooking stoves. Pipes supplying gas from the container to the cooking stove shall be constructed of suitable material. Arrangements shall be provided in accordance with the requirements of Rule 34(10) of these Rules for automatic cut-off of the supply of gas when there is a loss of pressure or flame failure.

Automatic fire detection systems62

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply an automatic fire detection and alarm system complying with the requirements of Rule 111 of these Rules shall be installed in the main propulsion machinery spaces of all such vessels the hulls of which are constructed of combustible material and in other vessels of 24·4 metres in length and over.

IPROTECTION OF THE CREW

Bulwarks, guard rails and guard wires63

1

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply, efficient bulwarks, guard rails or guard wires shall be provided to a height at least 915 millimetres above the level of the deck at the perimeters of exposed parts of the freeboard and superstructure decks and the tops of any deckhouse or companion way used in operating the vessel. The height above deck of any fixed bulwarks shall be at least:—

a

610 millimetres for vessels with Vessel Numerals up to and including 140;

b

760 millimetres for vessels with Vessel Numerals above 140 but not more than 315;

c

915 millimetres for vessels with Vessel Numerals above 315.

2

In every such vessel these bulwark heights shall be increased to not less than 915 millimetres by adequate portable stanchions and guard wires.

3

In any such vessel the height of the fixed bulwarks specified in paragraph (1) above may be reduced at any point if:—

a

there would be unreasonable interference with the efficient operation of the vessel if such minimum height were adhered to at that point; and

b

adequate protection is provided at that point.

4

In every such vessel guard rails or guard wires fitted in accordance with paragraph (1) above shall consist of courses of rails or wires supported by stanchions effectively secured on the deck. The openings between the lowest course of the rails or wires and the deck shall not exceed 230 millimetres in height and no opening above that course of rails or wires shall exceed 380 millimetres in height. Where the ship has rounded gunwales the stanchions shall be secured at the perimeter of the flat of the deck.

5

In every such vessel adequate guard rails, lifelines, gangways or passages shall be provided for the protection of persons on board the vessel when passing between their quarters, machinery spaces and working spaces. Storm rails shall be fitted on the outside of all deck houses and casings.

6

Every such vessel being a stern trawler shall be provided with doors, gates, or other adequate arrangements at the top of the stern ramp for the protection of persons on board the vessel. A chain or other suitable arrangements shall be provided across the ramp when the doors or gates are open.

7

In every such vessel an adequate number of lifelines and safety belts shall be provided.

Openings in decks64

1

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply skylight openings which do not provide means of escape shall be provided with protective bars.

2

In every such vessel access hatchway openings shall be not less than 600 millimetres by 600 millimetres.

Stairways and ladders65

In every vessel to which these Rules apply stairways and ladders shall be provided of size and strength adequate for the safe working of the vessel at sea and in port. Stairways and ladders shall be provided with non-slip treads and handrails.

JNAUTICAL EQUIPMENT

Compasses—requirements for vessel of 45 metres in length and over66

Every vessel of 45 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply shall be provided with:—

a

an efficient standard magnetic compass which shall be mounted in a binnacle and sited on the vessel's centre line in a suitable position from which the view of the horizon is least obstructed; and

b

an efficient magnetic steering compass mounted in a binnacle sited on the vessel's centre line at the normal steering position unless a projected or reflected image, or a projected and reflected image, of the standard magnetic compass is provided for this purpose, when the said magnetic steering compass shall be mounted in a binnacle or in a pedestal at the emergency steering position where such emergency steering position is situated above the freeboard deck. Where there is no emergency steering position or where the emergency steering position is not above the freeboard deck the said magnetic steering compass shall not be required if a projected or reflected image, or a projected and reflected image, of the standard magnetic compass is provided at the normal steering position, and either a gyro-compass with repeaters or a transmitting magnetic compass with repeaters having a satisfactory emergency electricity supply is provided. In addition to the said gyro-compass or transmitting magnetic compass, a spare magnetic compass bowl with its gimbal units shall be carried on board so that it may be interchanged with the standard compass if that compass shall become unserviceable. The repeaters required in the foregoing provisions of this Rule shall be so positioned that one is at the normal steering position.

Compasses—requirements for vessels of 12 metres in length and over but less than 45 metres in length67

Every vessel of 12 metres in length and over but less than 45 metres in length to which these Rules apply shall be provided with at least one efficient standard magnetic compass mounted in a binnacle and so fitted that a projected or reflected image, or a projected and reflected image, of the said compass is positioned near the normal steering position, except that in a vessel of less than 24·4 metres in length the compass may be of the overhead or other suitable type capable of being properly compensated.

Compasses—general requirements68

1

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply a voice pipe or other acceptable means of communications shall be provided between the standard compass position and the wheelhouse and the emergency steering position if one is provided.

2

Vessels of 45 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply, operating in latitudes above 65° North or South, shall be provided with a gyro-compass.

Sounding equipment69

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply a mechanical depth sounding device or echo depth sounding equipment suitable for navigational purposes shall be provided.

Nautical publications70

1

This Rule applies to every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply which proceeds more than 5 nautical miles from the coast.

2

The Secretary of State hereby specifies the charts described in paragraph (3) below and the directions and information mentioned in paragraph (4) below, as the charts, directions and information which appear to him necessary or expedient for the safe operation of vessels to which this Rule applies.

3

The said charts are those—

a

which are of such a scale and which contain sufficient detail as clearly to show—

i

all navigational marks which may be used by a vessel when navigating the waters which are comprised in the chart,

ii

all known hazards affecting those waters, and

iii

any information concerning traffic separation schemes, two-way routes, recommended tracks, inshore traffic zones and deep water routes applicable to those waters and areas therein which are to be avoided;

b

which are either published by the Hydrographer of the Navy or, if not so published, are of a similar scale to those so published and contain equivalent detail; and

c

which, in all cases, are of the latest available edition and—

i

in the case of charts published by the Hydrographer of the Navy, have been corrected from all relevant Notices to Mariners and Radio Navigational Warnings, and

ii

in the case of charts not so published, have been otherwise adequately corrected.

In paragraph (b) above the reference to the Hydrographer of the Navy includes a reference to any authority in any country other than the United Kingdom duly exercising functions similar to those of the Hydrographer.

For the purposes of paragraph (c)(ii) above, a chart shall be treated as adequately corrected if, in relation to a voyage made by the vessel which is carrying the chart in accordance with paragraph (5)(a) below, all relevant corrections to that chart applicable up to a time 9 months before the beginning of that voyage have been made.

4

The said directions and information are such as is contained in the publications mentioned in column 1 of Schedule 25 to these Rules, being publications which, in all cases, are of the latest available edition and which incorporate the latest relevant supplements and, in the case of any such publication which is published otherwise than by the publisher specified opposite thereto in column 2 of the said Schedule, is of equivalent standard and content.

5

Every vessel to which this Rule applies which goes to sea or attempts to go to sea shall carry at least—

a

one copy of a chart which complies with the requirements specified in paragraph (3) above, being a chart which is appropriate for each part of the intended voyage; and

b

one copy of each of the publications mentioned in Schedule 25 to these Rules, with English language text, as is appropriate for that voyage.

Flags and signalling equipment71

Every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply shall be provided with:—

a

a proper complement of flags and pennants for communication by the international code of signals when proceeding on a distant water voyage;

b

an efficient signalling lamp capable of being used both by day and by night and which shall be provided with a battery of sufficient capacity to operate the lamp continuously for not less than two hours.

Pilot ladders72

Every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply where the distance in normal operating conditions from the water to the point of access to the vessel exceeds 2.5 metres, shall be provided with a pilot ladder complying with the Merchant Shipping (Pilot Ladders) Rules 19659 as amended10

KDOCUMENTATION TO BE CARRIED ON VESSELS

Record of particulars to be kept on vessel73

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply a copy of the record of particulars referred to in Rule 125 of these Rules shall be kept on board at all times in the custody of the skipper.

Information as to stability to be kept on vessel74

1

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply a book containing the information relating to the stability of the vessel set out in Schedule 3 to these Rules shall be kept on board at all times in the custody of the skipper.

2

The book kept in accordance with paragraph (1) above shall be appropriately amended whenever its accuracy is materially affected by alteration of the vessel.

Information on loading and ballasting to be kept on vessel75

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply a book containing working instructions specifying in detail the manner in which the vessel is to be loaded and ballasted in all foreseeable operating conditions shall be kept on board at all times in the custody of the skipper.

PART IIIRULES FOR LIFE-SAVING APPLIANCES

ALIFE-SAVING APPLIANCES AND EQUIPMENT

Requirements for vessels of 75 metres in length and over76

1

Every vessel of 75 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply shall carry:—

a

at least two lifeboats, one of which shall be a motor lifeboat, attached to davits so arranged that there is at least one lifeboat on each side of the vessel, the lifeboats on each side of the vessel being of sufficient aggregate capacity to accommodate half the total number of persons on board the vessel;

b

at least two liferafts of sufficient aggregate capacity to accommodate not less than one-and-a-half times the total number of persons on board.

2

In every such vessel—

a

the lifeboat davits shall be of the gravity type except that davits which serve a lifeboat weighing not more than 2.3 tonnes in the turning out condition may be of the luffing type;

b

the liferafts shall be so stowed that they can be readily transferred to the water on either side of the vessel.

3

Every such vessel shall carry:—

a

a portable radio equipment which complies with Part I of Schedule 13 to these Rules or two portable radio equipments which comply with Part II of the said Schedule the batteries of which shall be renewed annually. Such radio equipment shall be kept in a suitable place ready to be moved into a lifeboat or a liferaft in case of emergency and in vessels where the disposition of superstructures or deckhouses is such that the main transmitter and lifeboats or liferafts are a substantial distance apart such equipment shall be kept in the vicinity of those lifeboats or liferafts which are furthest away from the main transmitter;

b

for every person on board weighing 32 kilogrammes or more a lifejacket which shall comply with the requirements of Part I of Schedule 11 to these Rules and for every person on board weighing less than 32 kilogrammes a lifejacket which shall comply with the requirements of Part II of the said Schedule;

c

a line-throwing appliance;

d

at least four lifebuoys which shall comply with the following provisions:—

i

half the lifebuoys carried shall have self-igniting lights attached. Two of the lifebuoys having such lights attached shall be provided with self activating smoke signals capable of producing smoke of a highly visible colour for at least 15 minutes;

ii

one lifebuoy on each side of the vessel shall have attached to it a buoyant line of at least 27 metres in length but any such lifebuoy having a line attached shall not have a self-igniting light;

iii

the two lifebuoys equipped with self-igniting lights and self-activating smoke signals shall be carried one on each side of the navigating bridge and, if reasonably practicable, so fitted as to be capable of quick release;

e

not less than 12 parachute distress rocket signals which comply with the requirements of Schedule 18 to these Rules.

Requirements for vessels of 45 metres in length and over but less than 75 metres in length77

1

Every vessel of 45 metres in length and over but less than 75 metres in length to which these Rules apply shall carry either:—

a

i

at least two lifeboats attached to davits, so arranged that there is at least one lifeboat on each side of the vessel, the lifeboats on each side of the vessel being of sufficient aggregate capacity to accommodate half the total number of persons on board the vessel; and

ii

at least two liferafts of sufficient aggregate capacity to accommodate not less than one-and-a-half times the total number of persons on board; or

b

i

on each side of the vessel one or more liferafts of sufficient aggregate capacity to accommodate the total number of persons on board. Each liferaft shall be of approximately the same capacity; and

ii

a liferaft of sufficient capacity to accommodate at least half the total number of persons on board and which can be readily placed in the water on either side of the vessel provided that this additional liferaft shall not be required where the liferafts specified in subparagraph (b)(i) above can be readily placed in the water on the opposite side of the vessel to that on which they are stowed; and

iii

a lifeboat, Class C boat or inflatable boat capable of being launched on one side of the vessel with its equipment and a launching crew of two persons when the vessel is upright or listed up to 15° in either direction provided that any lifeboat, Class C boat or inflatable boat carried in compliance with this sub-paragraph of this Rule shall be fitted with a suitable engine.

2

In every such vessel lifeboat davits provided for the lifeboats carried under the provisions of paragraph 1(a)(i) above shall be of the gravity type except that davits which serve a lifeboat weighing not more than 2.3 tonnes in the turning out condition may be of the luffing type.

3

In every such vessel liferafts carried under the provisions of paragraph (1)(a)(ii) above shall be so stowed that they can be readily transferred to the water on either side of the vessel.

4

In every such vessel where the distance from the embarkation deck to the waterline in the lightest sea-going condition exceeds 4.6 metres the liferafts carried in compliance with paragraph (1)(b)(i) above shall be of the davit launched type. At least one launching appliance shall be provided on each side of the vessel for every two rafts carried.

5

Every such vessel shall carry:—

a

a portable radio equipment which complies with Part I of Schedule 13 to these Rules or two portable radio equipments which comply with Part II of the said Schedule the batteries of which shall be renewed annually. Such radio equipment shall be kept in a suitable place ready to be moved into a lifeboat or a liferaft in case of emergency and in vessels where the disposition of superstructures or deckhouses is such that the main transmitter and lifeboats or liferafts are a substantial distance apart such equipment shall be kept in the vicinity of those lifeboats or liferafts which are furthest away from the main transmitter;

b

for every person on board weighing 32 kilogrammes or more a lifejacket which shall comply with the requirements of Part I of Schedule 11 to these Rules and for every person on board weighing less than 32 kilogrammes a lifejacket which shall comply with the requirements of Part II of the said Schedule;

c

a line-throwing appliance;

d

at least four lifebuoys which shall comply with the following provisions:—

i

half the lifebuoys carried shall have self-igniting lights attached. Two of the lifebuoys having such lights attached shall be provided with self activating smoke signals capable of producing smoke of a highly visible colour for at least 15 minutes;

ii

one lifebuoy on each side of the vessel shall have attached to it a buoyant line of at least 27 metres in length but any such lifebuoy having a line attached shall not have a self-igniting light;

iii

the two lifebuoys equipped with self-igniting lights and self-activating smoke signals shall be carried one on each side of the navigating bridge, and if reasonably practicable, so fitted as to be capable of quick release;

e

not less than 12 parachute distress rocket signals which comply with the requirements of Schedule 18 to these Rules.

Requirements for vessels of 24.4 metres in length and over but less than 45 metres in length78

1

Every vessel of 24.4 metres in length and over but less than 45 metres in length to which these Rules apply shall carry either:—

a

i

a lifeboat attached to a mechanically controlled single arm davit of sufficient capacity to accommodate the total number of persons on board the vessel; and

ii

liferafts on the following scale:—

  • vessels with 16 or more persons on board—at least two liferafts of sufficient aggregate capacity to accommodate the total number of persons on board;

  • vessels with fewer than 16 persons on board—at least one liferaft of sufficient capacity to accommodate the total number of persons on board; or

b

i

a lifeboat, Class C boat or suitable inflatable boat which shall be capable of being launched on one side of the vessel; and

ii

at least two liferafts of sufficient aggregate capacity to accommodate twice the total number of persons on board.

2

In every such vessel liferafts carried in compliance with this Rule shall be so stowed that they can be readily transferred to the water on either side of the vessel.

3

Every such vessel shall carry:—

a

a portable radio equipment which shall comply with Schedule 13 to these Rules provided that the batteries of any radio equipments which comply with Part II of the said Schedule shall be renewed annually. Such radio equipment shall be kept in a suitable place ready to be moved into a lifeboat or a liferaft in case of emergency and, in vessels where the disposition of superstructures or deckhouses is such that the main transmitter and lifeboats or liferafts are a substantial distance apart, such equipment shall be kept in the vicinity of those lifeboats or liferafts which are furthest away from the main transmitter;

b

for every person on board weighing 32 kilogrammes or more a lifejacket which shall comply with the requirements of Part I of Schedule 11 to these Rules and for every person on board weighing less than 32 kilogrammes a lifejacket which shall comply with the requirements of Part II of the said Schedule;

c

a line-throwing appliance;

d

at least four lifebuoys which shall comply with the following provisions:—

i

half the lifebuoys carried shall have self-igniting lights attached. Two of the lifebuoys having such lights attached shall be provided with self activating smoke signals capable of producing smoke of a highly visible colour for at least 15 minutes;

ii

one lifebuoy on each side of the vessel shall have attached to it a buoyant line of at least 27 metres in length but any such lifebuoy having a line attached shall not have a self-igniting light;

iii

the two lifebuoys equipped with self-igniting lights and self-activating smoke signals shall be carried one on each side of the navigating bridge, and if reasonably practicable, so fitted as to be capable of quick release;

e

not less than 12 parachute distress rocket signals which comply with the requirements of Schedule 18 to these Rules.

Requirements for vessels of 17 metres in length and over but less than 24.4 metres in length79

Every vessel of 17 metres in length and over but less than 24.4 metres in length to which these Rules apply shall carry:—

a

at least two liferafts of sufficient aggregate capacity to accommodate twice the number of persons on board. The liferafts shall be so stowed that they can be readily transferred to the water on either side of the vessel;

b

a portable radio equipment which complies with Schedule 13 to these Rules. The batteries of any radio equipment which comply with Part II of the said Schedule shall be renewed annually;

c

for every person on board weighing 32 kilogrammes or more a lifejacket which shall comply with the requirements of Part I of Schedule 11 to these Rules and for every person on board weighing less than 32 kilogrammes a lifejacket which shall comply with the requirements of Part II of the said Schedule;

d

a line-throwing appliance;

e

at least four lifebuoys which shall comply with the following provisions:—

i

half the lifebuoys carried shall have self-igniting lights attached. Two of the lifebuoys having such lights attached shall be provided with self-activating smoke signals capable of producing smoke of a highly visible colour for at least 15 minutes;

ii

one lifebuoy on each side of the vessel shall have attached to it a buoyant line of at least 27 metres in length but any such lifebuoy having a line attached shall not have a self-igniting light;

iii

the two lifebuoys equipped with self-igniting lights and self-activating smoke signals shall be carried one on each side of the navigating bridge and, if reasonably practicable, so fitted as to be capable of quick release;

f

not less than 12 parachute distress rocket signals which comply with the requirements of Schedule 18 to these Rules.

Requirements for vessels of 12 metres in length and over but less than 17 metres in length80

Every vessel of 12 metres in length and over but less than 17 metres in length to which these Rules apply shall carry:—

a

one or more liferafts of sufficient aggregate capacity to accommodate the total number of persons on board. The liferafts shall be so stowed that they can be readily transferred to the water on either side of the vessel;

b

for every person on board weighing 32 kilogrammes or more a lifejacket which shall comply with the requirements of Part I of Schedule 11 to these Rules and for every person on board weighing less than 32 kilogrammes a lifejacket which shall comply with Part II of the said Schedule;

c

at least two lifebuoys which shall comply with the following provisions:—

i

half of the lifebuoys carried shall have self-igniting lights attached. One of the lifebuoys having such a light attached shall be provided with a self-activating smoke signal capable of producing smoke of a highly visible colour for at least 15 minutes;

ii

one lifebuoy shall have attached to it a buoyant line of at least 18 metres in length but any such lifebuoy having a line attached shall not have a self-igniting light;

d

a line throwing appliance;

e

not less than 12 parachute distress rocket signals which comply with the requirements of Schedule 18 to these Rules.

Requirements for vessels less than 12 metres in length81

Every vessel of less than 12 metres in length to which these Rules apply shall carry:—

a

lifebuoys at least equal in number to half the total number of persons on board and in no case less than two lifebuoys;

b

a buoyant heaving line at least 18 metres in length shall be attached to one lifebuoy;

c

not less than six red star distress signals each of which shall be capable of emitting two or more red stars either together or separately at or to a height of not less than 45 metres; each such star shall burn with a luminosity of at least 5,000 candelas for not less than five seconds.

General requirements for lifeboats82

1

Lifeboats carried in any vessel to which these Rules apply shall comply with the requirements specified in Schedule 4 to these Rules.

2

Subject to the provisions of paragraphs (3) and (4) below, the number of persons which such a lifeboat shall be deemed fit to accommodate shall be equal to the greatest whole number obtained by the formula v/x where “v” is the cubic capacity of the lifeboat in cubic metres determined in accordance with the provisions of Schedule 5 to these Rules and “x” is the volume in cubic metres for each person and which shall be 0.283 for a lifeboat of 7.3 metres in length or over and 0.453 for a lifeboat of 3.65 metres in length. For intermediate lengths of lifeboats the value of “x” shall be determined by interpolation.

3

The number of persons which such a lifeboat is deemed fit to accommodate shall not exceed the number of adult persons wearing lifejackets for which there is proper seating accommodation arranged in such a way that the persons when seated do not interfere in any way with the use of the oars or the operation of other propulsion equipment.

4

No such lifeboat shall be deemed fit to accommodate more than 60 persons unless it is a motor lifeboat.

5

Every such lifeboat being a motor lifeboat shall in addition to complying with the requirements of Schedule 4 to these Rules comply with the following requirements:—

a

it shall be fitted with a compression ignition engine and such engine and its accessories shall comply with the requirements of Schedule 6 to these Rules and shall be kept so as to be at all time ready for use;

b

it shall be provided with sufficient fuel for 24 hours continuous operation at the speed and under the conditions specified in sub paragraph (d) below;

c

it shall be capable of going astern;

d

it shall be capable of going ahead in smooth water when loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment at a speed of 4 knots.

General requirements for Class C boats83

Class C boats carried in any vessel to which these Rules apply shall comply with the requirements of Schedule 7 to these Rules.

General requirements for inflatable boats84

Inflatable boats carried in any vessel to which these Rules apply shall comply with the requirements of Schedule 8 to these Rules.

General requirements for liferafts85

1

Liferafts carried in any vessel to which these Rules apply shall comply with the requirements of Part I of Schedule 9 to these Rules if they are inflatable liferafts and Part II of the said Schedule if they are rigid liferafts.

2

Any such liferafts which are required to comply with Part I of Schedule 9 to these Rules shall be surveyed at intervals of not more than 12 months provided that in any case where this is not reasonably practicable, such interval may be extended by a period not exceeding three months.

Marking of lifeboats, Class C boats, inflatable boats and liferafts86

1

On every lifeboat or Class C boat carried in any vessel to which these Rules apply there shall be clearly marked in permanent characters the dimensions of the lifeboat or Class C boat as the case may be and the number of persons which each is deemed fit to accommodate. The name and port of registry of the vessel to which the lifeboat or Class C boat belongs shall be painted on each side of the boat.

2

Every liferaft which complies with Part I of Schedule 9 to these Rules and which is carried in any vessel to which these Rules apply shall be clearly marked in permanent characters with the number of persons which the liferaft is deemed fit to accommodate. Such number of persons shall also be clearly marked in permanent characters on the valise or other container in which the liferaft is contained when not in use. Every such liferaft shall also bear—

a

the manufacturer's name and liferaft serial number; and

b

the vessel's name and port of registry; or

c

the vessel's fishing number; or

d

a serial number allocated by the owner of the vessel or an organisation hiring or controlling the distribution of liferafts to fishing vessels which shall enable the vessel on which the liferaft is for the time being carried to be readily identified.

3

On every liferaft which complies with Part II of Schedule 9 to these Rules and which is carried in any vessel to which these Rules apply there shall be marked the name and port of registry of the vessel in which it is carried and the number of persons the liferaft is deemed fit to carry.

4

On every inflatable boat which complies with Schedule 8 to these Rules and which is carried in any vessel to which these Rules apply there shall be marked—

a

the number of persons the inflatable boat is deemed fit to accommodate; and

b

the date of manufacture, maker's name or trade mark and serial number of the inflatable boat; and

c

the name, port of registry and fishing vessel number of the vessel to which the inflatable boat belongs.

Requirements for lifebuoys87

1

Lifebuoys carried in every vessel of 17 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply shall comply with the requirements of Part I of Schedule 10 to these Rules.

2

Lifebuoys carried in every vessel of less than 17 metres in length to which these Rules apply shall comply with the requirements of either Part I or Part II of Schedule 10 to these Rules. The lifebuoys carried shall not be so mixed as to comprise at any one time lifebuoys complying with Part I and lifebuoys complying with Part II of the said Schedule.

3

Lifebuoys carried in every vessel to which these Rules apply shall weigh not less than 4.3 kilogrammes where the release of a self-igniting light depends upon the weight of the lifebuoy.

Requirements for self-igniting lights attached to lifebuoys88

Self-igniting lights attached to lifebuoys carried in any vessel to which these Rules apply shall be such that they cannot be extinguished in water. They shall be capable of burning for not less than 45 minutes and shall have a luminosity of not less than 2 candelas in all directions of the upper hemisphere.

Requirements for line-throwing appliances89

Line-throwing appliances carried in any vessel to which these Rules apply shall comply with the requirements of Schedule 12 to these Rules.

Equipment for lifeboats and Class C boats90

1

Subject to the provisions of paragraphs (2) and (3) below, the equipment of every lifeboat which is carried in any vessel to which these Rules apply in compliance with Rules 76(1)(a), 77(1)(a)(i) or 78(1)(a)(i) shall be as follows:—

a

a single banked complement of oars, two spare buoyant oars, and a buoyant steering oar; one set and a half of crutches attached to the lifeboat by lanyard or chain; a boat hook;

b

two plugs for each plug hole (except where proper automatic valves are fitted) attached to the lifeboat by lanyards or chains, a bailer and two buckets;

c

a rudder attached to the lifeboat and a tiller;

d

a lifeline becketed round the outside of the lifeboat; means to enable persons to cling to the lifeboat if upturned, in the form of bilge keels or keel rails, together with grab lines secured from gunwale to gunwale under the keel;

e

a locker conspicuously marked as such, suitable for the stowage of small items of equipment;

f

two hatchets, one at each end of the lifeboat;

g

a lamp with oil sufficient for 12 hours;

h

a watertight box containing two boxes of matches not readily extinguished by wind;

i

a mast or masts with galvanised wire stays together with orange coloured sails which shall be marked for identification purposes with the first and last letter of the name of the vessel to which the lifeboat belongs;

j

a compass in a binnacle complying with the requirements of Part I of Schedule 14 to these Rules;

k

a sea anchor complying with the requirements of Part II of Schedule 14 to these Rules;

l

two painters of sufficient length and size. One such painter shall be secured to the forward end of the lifeboat with a strop and toggle so that it can be readily released and the second such painter shall be firmly secured to the stem of the lifeboat and be ready for use;

m

a vessel containing one gallon of vegetable, fish or animal oil. A means shall be provided to enable such oil to be easily distributed on the water and such means shall be so arranged that such vessel can be attached to the sea anchor;

n

four parachute distress rocket signals complying with the requirements of Part III of Schedule 14 to these Rules and six hand-held distress flare signals complying with the provisions of Part IV of the said Schedule;

o

two buoyant smoke signals complying with the requirements of Part V of Schedule 14 to these Rules;

p

a first aid outfit complying with the requirements of Part VI of Schedule 14 to these Rules;

q

a waterproof electric torch suitable for morse-signalling, together with one spare set of batteries and one spare bulb in a waterproof container;

r

a daylight signalling mirror;

s

a jack-knife fitted with a tin-opener to be kept attached to the lifeboat with a lanyard;

t

two light buoyant heaving lines;

u

a manual pump complying with the requirements of Part VII of Schedule 14 to these Rules;

v

a whistle;

w

a fishing line and six hooks;

x

a cover of a highly visible colour capable of protecting the occupants against injury by exposure;

y

a copy of a suitable rescue signal table;

z

means to enable persons in the water to climb into the lifeboat.

2

No motor lifeboat carried in any vessel to which these Rules apply shall be required to carry a mast or sails nor more than half the complement of oars. Every such lifeboat shall carry two boat hooks.

3

Every motor lifeboat carried in any vessel to which these Rules apply shall carry at least two portable fire extinguishers capable of discharging foam or other substance suitable for extinguishing oil fires, a receptacle containing a sufficient quantity of sand and a scoop for distributing the sand. Such portable fire extinguishers shall be of a type complying with the requirements of Rule 110 of these Rules, except that the capacity of each extinguisher shall not be required to exceed 4.5 litres of fluid or other extinguishing medium.

4

Every lifeboat or Class C Boat which is carried in any vessel to which these Rules apply in compliance with Rules 77(1)(b)(iii) or 78(1)(b)(i) shall be equipped as follows:—

a

a single complement of buoyant oars and one spare buoyant oar provided that there shall never be less than three oars; one set of crutches attached to the boat by lanyard or chain; a boat hook;

b

two plugs for each plug hole (except where proper automatic valves are fitted) attached to the boat by lanyards or chains; a bailer and a bucket;

c

a rudder attached to the boat and a tiller;

d

a lifeline becketed round the outside of the boat;

e

a locker conspicuously marked as such, suitable for the stowage of small items of equipment;

f

a painter of sufficient length and size secured to the forward end of the boat with a strop and toggle so that it can be readily released;

g

means to enable persons to cling to the boat if upturned, in the form of bilge keels or keel rails;

h

a waterproof electric torch suitable for morse-signalling together with one spare set of batteries and one spare bulb in a waterproof container;

i

two light buoyant heaving lines.

Equipment for inflatable boats91

Every inflatable boat which is carried in any vessel to which these Rules apply in compliance with Rules 77(1)(b)(iii) or 78(1)(b)(i) shall be provided with the equipment specified in paragraph 14 of Schedule 8 to these Rules.

Rations for lifeboats92

1

Every lifeboat carried in any vessel to which these Rules apply shall be provided with at least 3 litres of fresh water for each person whom it is deemed fit to accommodate, or at least 2 litres of fresh water for each such person together with a desalting apparatus capable of providing at least 1 litre of drinking water for each such person and in either case the total quantity of water shall be increased as far as is practicable;

provided that this Rule shall not apply to any lifeboat which is carried as an alternative to a Class C boat.

2

In every such lifeboat the water shall be kept in suitable containers and there shall be provided at least one dipper, which shall be attached to the containers by a lanyard, and three rust-proof drinking vessels (one graduated in 10, 20 and 50 cc) provided that a container of not more than 2 litre capacity shall not be required to be provided with a dipper. The water shall be frequently changed so as to ensure that it is always clean and fit for drinking.

Security of equipment and rations in lifeboats, Class C boats and inflatable boats93

1

All items of equipment provided in any lifeboat, Class C boat or inflatable boat carried in any vessel to which these Rules apply shall be secured within the lifeboat or boat with the exception of the boat hook which shall be kept free for fending-off purposes. Any lashing shall be carried out in such a manner as to ensure the security of the equipment and so as not to interfere with the lifting hooks, if fitted, or to prevent ready embarkation. All items of such equipment shall be as small and as light in weight as possible and shall be packed in suitable and compact form.

2

Any rations which may be provided in a lifeboat carried in any vessel to which these Rules apply shall be stowed in watertight tanks, which shall be firmly secured to the lifeboat.

3

The tanks for any such water rations in a lifeboat carried in any vessel to which these Rules apply shall be conspicuously marked “water”.

Equipment and rations for liferafts94

The equipment and rations provided in every liferaft carried in any vessel to which these Rules apply shall be as follows:—

a

one buoyant rescue quoit, attached to at least 30 metres of buoyant line;

b

for liferafts which are fit to accommodate not more than 12 persons; one safety knife and one bailer;

for liferafts which are fit to accommodate 13 persons or more: two safety knives and two bailers;

c

two sponges;

d

two sea anchors, one permanently attached to the liferaft and one spare with line;

e

two paddles;

f

one repair outfit capable of repairing punctures in buoyancy compartments unless the liferaft complies with the requirements of Part II of Schedule 9 to these Rules;

g

one topping-up pump or bellows, unless the liferaft complies with Part II of Schedule 9 to these Rules;

h

three safety tin openers;

i

a first aid outfit complying with the requirements of Part VI of Schedule 14 to these Rules;

j

one rust-proof drinking vessel, graduated in 10, 20, and 50 cc;

k

one waterproof electric torch suitable for morse-signalling together with one spare set of batteries and spare bulb in a waterproof container;

l

one daylight signalling mirror and one signalling whistle;

m

two parachute distress rocket signals complying with the requirements of Part III of Schedule 14 to these Rules;

n

six hand-held distress flare signals complying with the requirements of Part IV of Schedule 14 to these Rules;

o

one fishing line and six hooks;

p

340 grammes of suitable non-thirst-provoking food providing at least 4.8 calories per gramme weight and 170 grammes of barley sugar or other equally suitable sweets for each person the liferaft is deemed fit to accommodate;

q

watertight receptacles containing 1 ½ litres of fresh water for each person the liferaft is deemed fit to accommodate, of which ½ litre per person may be replaced by a suitable desalting apparatus capable of producing an equal amount of fresh water;

r

six anti-seasickness tablets for each person which the liferaft is deemed fit to accommodate;

s

instructions printed in the English language on how to survive in the liferaft;

t

one copy of a suitable rescue signal table.

General provisions relating to the stowage and handling of life-saving appliances95

1

In every vessel to which these Rules apply the arrangement of each lifeboat, Class C boat, inflatable boat or liferaft where carried shall be such that it will not interfere with the operation of other life-saving appliances or impede in any way their prompt handling or the marshalling of persons at the launching stations or their embarkation.

2

In every such vessel lifeboats, Class C boats, inflatable boats or liferafts shall be so stowed that they can all be launched safely in the shortest possible time.

Stowage and handling of lifeboats and Class C boats96

1

In every vessel to which these Rules apply subject to the provisions of paragraphs (2) and (3) below every lifeboat attached to a set of davits, other than a lifeboat which is carried as an alternative to a Class C boat, shall be so arranged that even under unfavourable conditions of trim and of up to 15 degrees of list either way it can be put into the water when loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment required by these Rules.

2

In every such vessel, every lifeboat which is carried as an alternative to a Class C boat and every Class C boat which is attached to a davit or set of davits other than a mechanically controlled singte-arm davit shall be so arranged that when loaded with its equipment required by these Rules and a launching crew of two persons it can be put into the water on one side of the vessel when the vessel is upright or is listed to 15 degrees towards that side.

3

In every such vessel every lifeboat or Class C boat attached to a mechanically controlled single-arm davit shall be so arranged that when loaded with its equipment required by these Rules and a launching crew of two persons it can be put into the water on one side of the vessel when the vessel is upright or is listed up to 15 degrees towards that side, except that in vessels which carry a lifeboat in compliance with Rule 78(1)(a)(i) of these Rules the lifeboat shall be so arranged that when loaded with its required equipment and a launching crew of two persons it can be put into the water on either side of the vessel or, if the vessel has a list, on the side to which the vessel is listed.

4

In every such vessel every lifeboat or Class C boat carried in compliance with Rules 77(1)(b)(iii) or 78(1)(b)(i) of these Rules, if not attached to a davit or set of davits, shall be attached to a device which shall be provided primarily for the purpose of launching the boat and which shall be capable of putting the boat into the water on one side of the vessel when it is loaded with its equipment required by these Rules and a launching crew of two persons and when the vessel is upright or is listed up to 15 degrees towards that side.

5

In every such vessel not more than one lifeboat or Class C boat shall be attached to any set of davits, davit or other means of launching.

6

In every such vessel lifeboats shall only be stowed on more than one deck on condition that proper measures are taken to prevent lifeboats on a lower deck being fouled by those stowed on a deck above.

7

In every such vessel lifeboats shall not be placed in the bows of the vessel, and they shall be situated in such positions as to ensure safe launching having particular regard to clearance from the propeller and steeply overhanging portions of the hull aft, and to ensure so far as is practicable that they can be launched down the straight side of the vessel.

8

In every such vessel davits, where fitted, shall be suitably placed.

9

In every such vessel davits, winches, falls, blocks and all other launching gear provided in accordance with these Rules shall comply with the requirements of Schedule 15 to these Rules.

10

In every such vessel all lifeboats or Class C boats attached to davits shall be served by wire rope falls and winches in the following cases:—

a

when they are attached to gravity davits; or

b

when they are attached to mechanically controlled single-arm davits; or

c

when the weight of the attached lifeboat or Class C boat in the lowering condition exceeds 2.3 tonnes.

11

In every such vessel in which lifeboats or Class C boats are served by wire rope falls, winches shall be provided for handling such falls.

12

In every such vessel where davits are recovered by action of the falls by power, safety devices shall be fitted which will automatically cut off the power before the davits come against the stops and ensure that the wire rope falls or davits are not over-stressed.

13

In every such vessel to facilitate the launching of lifeboats against a list of 15 degrees, skates or other suitable means shall be provided for any lifeboat stowed under davits which are of such strength that the lifeboat can be lowered with its full complement of persons and its equipment required by these Rules.

14

In every such vessel means shall be provided for bringing the lifeboats, which are required to be capable of being lowered in the fully loaded condition, against the vessel's side and for holding them there for the safe embarkation of persons.

15

In every such vessel other than a vessel in which the lifeboat or Class C boat is attached to a mechanically controlled single-arm davit, the davits shall be fitted with a wire rope span so positioned that when the boat is in the lowering position the span is as near as practicable over the centre line of the boat. There shall be at least two lifelines fitted to the span and the lifelines shall be long enough to reach the water with the vessel at her lightest seagoing draught and listed to 15 degrees either way.

16

In every such vessel lifeboats and Class C boats attached to davits shall have the falls ready for service and the falls shall be at least long enough to reach the water with the vessel at her lightest sea-going draught and listed to 15 degrees either way. Means shall be provided for detaching the lifeboats or Class C boats from the falls. Lower fall blocks shall be fitted with a suitable ring or long link for attaching to the sling hooks, unless disengaging gear complying with the requirements of Schedule 16 to these Rules is fitted. The points of attachment of the lifeboats and Class C boats to the falls shall be at such height above the gunwale as to ensure stability when lowering the lifeboats or Class C boats.

17

In every such vessel when a lifeboat is attached to any set of davits, davit, or other means of launching not of sufficient strength that the lifeboat can be safely lowered into the water when loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment required by these Rules under the conditions of Trim and List specified in these Rules, or when any Class C boat not of sufficient strength that it can be safely lowered into the water when loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment required by these Rules is attached to any set of davits, davit, or other means of launching, each davit or other means of launching shall be conspicuously marked with a red band 150 millimetres wide painted on a white background.

Stowage and handling of inflatable boats97

1

A mechanical appliance for the launching and recovering of inflatable boats shall be provided in every vessel to which these Rules apply which carries an inflatable boat in compliance with these Rules. Such appliance shall be capable of launching and recovering the inflatable boat when the vessel is upright or listed up to 15 degrees towards the side on which the appliance is fitted.

2

The working load of every such appliance shall be taken to be the sum of the weights of:—

a

the inflatable boat and its full equipment;

b

the blocks and falls;

c

a launching crew of two persons at 75 kilogrammes each;

d

a weight of 60 kilogrammes or the weight of the engine together with its fuel tank and at least sufficient fuel for three hours operation, whichever is the greater.

3

In association with the working load defined in paragraph (2) above every such appliance shall be designed to have a factor of safety of 5 when the vessel is upright and 4.5 when the vessel has a trim of 10 degrees and is listed 15 degrees to either side.

4

Every such appliance shall be tested to a static load of 2.2 times the working load.

5

Blocks provided with every such appliance shall be proof tested to 2.5 times the working load and falls shall have a factor of safety of 6.0.

6

Every such appliance shall be—

a

capable of recovering the inflatable boat and bringing it on board with an injured man and one crew member;

b

readily available and not stowed or used for any other purpose while the vessel is at sea;

c

provided with suitable means for manual operation;

d

satisfactorily tested after installation.

7

Every such appliance shall be provided with a winch when the inflatable boat is situated more than 4.6 metres above the lightest sea-going waterline. The winch shall be adequate for the lowering operation and shall be tested to 1.5 times the working load. The brake gear of the winch shall include means for automatically controlling the lowering speed to not less than 18 metres per minute or greater than 36 metres per minute.

Stowage and handling of liferafts, lifebuoys and lifejackets98

1

In every vessel to which these Rules apply, liferafts shall be so stowed that they can be put into the water safely even under unfavourable conditions of trim and of up to 15 degrees of list either way.

2

In every such vessel every liferaft launching appliance shall comply with the requirements of Schedule 17 to these Rules.

3

In every such vessel liferafts for which launching appliances are provided, and such launching appliances, shall not be placed in the bows of the vessel and shall be so placed as to ensure safe launching having particular regard to clearance from the propeller and steeply over-hanging portions of the hull aft, and to ensure so far as is practicable that they can be launched down the straight side of the vessel.

4

In every such vessel means shall be provided for bringing liferafts for which launching appliances are provided, against the vessel's side and for holding them there for the safe embarkation of persons.

5

In every such vessel lifebuoys shall be so stowed as to be readily accessible to all persons on board, and in such a way that they can be rapidly cast loose.

6

In every such vessel lifejackets shall be so stowed as to be readily accessible to all persons on board. Their position shall be clearly and permanently indicated.

Embarkation into lifeboats, Class C boats, inflatable boats and liferafts99

1

In every vessel to which these Rules apply arrangements shall be made to ensure that it is possible to effect embarkation into any lifeboats, Class C boats, inflatable boats and liferafts rapidly and in good order.

2

In every such vessel arrangements shall be made for warning the crew when the vessel is about to be abandoned.

3

In every vessel of 45 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply one ladder shall be carried at each set of lifeboat davits where the davits are capable of lowering the lifeboat when loaded with its full complement of persons and its equipment required by these Rules.

4

In every vessel to which these Rules apply which carries a Class C boat or a lifeboat which is not capable of being lowered into the water when loaded with its full complement of persons and its equipment required by these Rules, suitable means shall be provided for embarking persons into the boat.

5

In every such vessel the ladders provided in compliance with paragraph (3) above shall be of sufficient length to reach the water line with the vessel at her lightest sea-going draught and listed to 15 degrees either way.

6

In every such vessel where liferafts are the prime survival craft ladders or other suitable means shall be provided for safe embarkation into the liferafts.

7

Every such vessel shall be provided with means situated outside the machinery spaces whereby any discharge of water into the lifeboats, or into liferafts at fixed launching positions, including those under launching appliances, can be prevented.

8

In every such vessel means shall be provided for the electric lighting of the launching gear for lifeboats, inflatable boats or davit launched rafts during the preparation for and process of launching and also for the lighting of the stowage position of the liferafts.

Stowage of pyrotechnic distress signals100

In every vessel to which these Rules apply all pyrotechnic distress signals shall be packed in a watertight container and shall be clearly and indelibly labelled to indicate their purpose.

BFIRE APPLIANCES

Requirements for vessels of 60 metres in length and over101

1

In every vessel of 60 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply fire appliances shall be provided whereby at least two jets of water can reach any part of the vessel normally accessible to the crew while the vessel is being navigated, and any store room and any part of any hold space when empty.

2

In every such vessel at least two fire pumps operated by power shall be provided. Each pump shall be capable of delivering at least one jet simultaneously from each of any two fire hydrants, hoses and nozzles provided in the vessel and shall comply with the requirements of Rule 107 of these Rules.

3

In every such vessel—

a

where a fire in any one compartment could put all the fire pumps out of action there shall be provided, in a position outside the machinery spaces, an independently driven power operated emergency fire pump and its source of power and sea connection;

b

the emergency fire pump shall be capable of producing at least two jets of water from any of the fire hydrants and hoses through nozzles which shall comply with Rule 109(3)(a) of these Rules while simultaneously maintaining pressure of at least 2 kilogrammes force per square centimetre at any hydrant in the vessel.

4

In every such vessel—

a

a fire main, water service pipes and hydrants shall be provided which shall comply with the requirements of Rule 108 of these Rules;

b

at least one fire hose for each 30 metres length of vessel but in no case less than five hoses in addition to any fire hoses provided in the machinery spaces, shall be provided and these hoses shall have a total length of at least 60 per cent of the length of the vessel. In addition to these hoses there shall be provided one spare fire hose;

c

where oil-fired boilers or internal combustion type propelling machinery is installed there shall be provided in each space containing such boilers or machinery at least two fire hydrants, one on the port side and one on the starboard side and in addition where there is access to the machinery space by way of a shaft tunnel a fire hydrant shall be provided in the tunnel at the end adjacent to that space. A fire hose and spray nozzle shall be provided at every such fire hydrant.

5

In every such vessel a sufficient number of portable fire extinguishers shall be provided to ensure that at least one such extinguisher will be readily available for use in any part of the accommodation or service spaces. Not less than six extinguishers shall be provided of which one extinguisher suitable for extinguishing oil fires shall be provided adjacent to any oil fired central heating appliance which may be fitted. The extinguishing medium provided in any extinguisher placed in an area of fire risk shall be suitable for the type of fire risk involved.

6

In every such vessel at least one of the following fixed fire extinguishing installations shall be provided for the protection of any space containing any oil-fired boiler, oil fuel settling tank or oil fuel unit:—

a

a pressure water spraying system complying with the requirements of Rule 112 of these Rules;

b

a fire smothering gas installation complying with the requirements of Rule 113 of these Rules;

c

a foam fire extinguishing installation complying with the requirements of Rule 114 of these Rules.

If the engine room and boiler rooms are not entirely separated from each other by a bulkhead, or if fuel oil can drain from the boiler room into the engine room, a combined engine and boiler room shall, for the purposes of this paragraph of this Rule, be regarded as a single space.

7

In every such vessel in addition to the requirements of paragraph (6) above there shall be provided:—

a

if the number of burners in each boiler room is three or more, one foam fire extinguisher of at least 45 litres capacity or a carbon dioxide fire extinguisher of at least 16 kilogrammes capacity. If the number of such burners is less than three there shall be provided for each burner one portable fire extinguisher suitable for extinguishing oil fires;

b

in each firing space and in each space which contains any part of any oil fuel installation at least two portable fire extinguishers suitable for extinguishing oil fires, in addition to any which may be carried in compliance with the preceding sub-paragraph;

c

in each firing space a receptacle containing 0.3 cubic metres of sand or other dry material suitable for quenching oil fires together with a scoop for its distribution, or alternatively an additional portable fire extinguisher suitable for extinguishing oil fires.

8

In every such vessel at least one of the fixed fire extinguishing installations required by paragraph (6) above shall be provided for the protection of any space containing internal combustion type machinery used for main propulsion, or having in the aggregate a total power of not less than 1,000 bhp for auxiliary purposes.

9

In every such vessel in addition to the requirements of paragraph (8) above there shall be provided in any such space:—

a

one foam fire extinguisher of at least 45 litres capacity or a carbon dioxide fire extinguisher of at least 16 kilogrammes capacity;

b

one portable fire extinguisher suitable for extinguishing oil fires for each 1,000 bhp or part thereof of such machinery but in no event less than two such extinguishers, provided that not more than six such extinguishers shall be required in any such space.

10

In every such vessel in spaces containing steam turbines or reciprocating steam engines used either for main propulsion or having in the aggregate a total power of not less than 1,000 bhp for auxiliary purposes there shall be provided:—

a

foam fire extinguishers each of at least 45 litres capacity or carbon dioxide fire extinguishers each of at least 16 kilogrammes capacity sufficient in number to enable foam or carbon dioxide to be directed on to any part of the lubrication system and on to any part of the casings enclosing pressure lubricated parts of the turbines, engines or associated gearing, if any, provided that such extinguishers shall not be required if equivalent protection is provided in such spaces by a fixed extinguishing installation fitted in compliance with paragraphs (6) or (8) above;

b

one portable fire extinguisher for each 1,000 bhp or part thereof of such machinery, suitable for extinguishing oil fires, but in no event less than two such extinguishers, provided that not more than six such extinguishers shall be required in any one such space and provided that such extinguishers shall not be required in addition to any provided in compliance with paragraph (9) above.

11

In every such vessel a water spray system, independent of any system fitted in the machinery space and which may be connected to the fire main, shall be fitted in the net store and be operable from outside the store.

12

In every such vessel—

a

at least two firemen's outfits, which shall comply with the requirements of Rule 115 of these Rules, shall be carried;

b

at least one of these outfits shall include a breathing apparatus of the air hose type;

c

where firemen's outfits containing only breathing apparatus of the air hose type are carried and an air hose exceeding 36 metres in length would be necessary to reach from the open deck well clear of any hatch or doorway to any part of the accommodation, service, hold or machinery spaces, at least one breathing apparatus of the self-contained type shall also be provided.

13

In every such vessel at least one international shore connection complying with the specifications set out in Schedule 19 to these Rules shall be provided, and fixed provision shall be made to enable such a connection to be used on the port side and on the starboard side of the vessel.

Requirements for vessels of 45 metres in length and over but less than 60 metres in length102

1

In every vessel of 45 metres in length and over but less than 60 metres in length to which these Rules apply fire appliances shall be provided in accordance with this Rule whereby at least two jets of water can reach any part of the vessel normally accessible to the crew while the vessel is being navigated and any store room and any part of any hold space when empty.

2

In every such vessel at least two fire pumps operated by power shall be provided one of which may be driven by the main engine. Each pump shall be capable of delivering at least one jet of water from any fire hydrant, hose and nozzle provided in the vessel and shall comply with the requirements of Rule 107 of these Rules.

3

In every such vessel—

a

where a fire in any one compartment could put all the fire pumps out of action, there shall be provided, in a position outside the machinery spaces, an emergency fire pump and its source of power and sea connection;

b

the emergency fire pump may be operated by power or manually, and shall be capable of producing from any of the fire hydrants and hoses provided, through a nozzle which shall comply with Rule 109(3)(a) of these Rules, a jet of water having a throw of not less than 12 metres.

4

In every such vessel—

a

a fire main, water service pipes and hydrants shall be provided which shall comply with the requirements of Rule 108 of these Rules;

b

at least two fire hoses having a total length of at least 60 per cent of the length of the vessel and one spare fire hose shall be provided in addition to any fire hose provided in the machinery spaces;

c

where oil-fired boilers or internal combustion type propelling machinery are installed at least one fire hydrant shall be provided in each space containing such machinery. A fire hose and spray nozzle shall be provided at every such hydrant.

5

In every such vessel at least one of the following fixed fire extinguishing installations shall be provided for the protection of any space containing any oil-fired boiler, oil fuel settling tank or oil fuel unit:—

a

a pressure water spraying system complying with the requirements of Rule 112 of these Rules;

b

a fire smothering gas or steam installation complying with the requirements of Rule 113 of these Rules;

c

a foam fire extinguishing installation complying with the requirements of Rule 114 of these Rules.

If the engine room and boiler rooms are not entirely separated from each other by a bulkhead, or if fuel oil can drain from the boiler room into the engine room, the combined engine room and boiler room shall, for the purpose of this paragraph, be regarded as a single space.

6

In every such vessel in addition to the requirements of paragraph (5) above there shall be provided:—

a

if the number of burners in each boiler room is three or more, one foam fire extinguisher of at least 45 litres capacity or a carbon dioxide fire extinguisher of at least 16 kilogrammes capacity. If the number of such burners is less than three, for each burner one portable fire extinguisher suitable for extinguishing oil fires;

b

in each firing space, and in each space which contains any part of any oil fuel installations, at least two portable fire extinguishers suitable for extinguishing oil fires in addition to any such extinguishers which may be carried in compliance with the preceding sub-paragraph;

c

in each firing space a receptacle containing at least 0.15 cubic metres of sand or other dry material suitable for quenching oil fires together with a scoop for its distribution, or alternatively an additional portable fire extinguisher suitable for extinguishing oil fires.

7

In every such vessel one foam fire extinguisher of at least 45 litres capacity or a carbon dioxide fire extinguisher of at least 16 kilogrammes capacity shall be provided in any space containing internal combustion type machinery used for main propulsion, or having in the aggregate a total power of not less than 250 bhp for auxiliary purposes.

8

In every such vessel one portable fire extinguisher suitable for extinguishing oil fires for each 100 bhp or part thereof of such machinery shall be provided in any space containing internal combustion type machinery, provided that no more than six extinguishers shall be required in any such space.

9

In every such vessel in spaces containing steam turbines or reciprocating steam engines used either for main propulsion or having in the aggregate a total power of not less than 500 bhp for auxiliary purposes there shall be provided one portable extinguisher for each 500 bhp or part thereof of such machinery, suitable for extinguishing oil fires, but in no event less than two such extinguishers, provided that not more than six such extinguishers shall be required in any one such space and provided that such extinguishers shall not be required in addition to any provided in compliance with paragraph (6) above.

10

In every such vessel at least two firemen's outfits which shall comply with the requirements of Rule 115 of these Rules and which shall contain a breathing apparatus of the air hose type shall be provided.

11

In every such vessel a water spray system, independent of any system fitted in the machinery space and which may be connected to the fire main, shall be fitted in the net store and be operable from outside the space.

12

In every such vessel at least one international shore connection complying with the specifications set out in Schedule 19 to these Rules shall be provided and fixed provision shall be made to enable such a connection to be used on the port side and on the starboard side of the vessel.

13

In every such vessel a sufficient number of portable fire extinguishers shall be provided to ensure that at least one such extinguisher will be readily available for use in any part of the accommodation or service spaces. Not less than four extinguishers shall be provided of which one extinguisher suitable for extinguishing oil fires shall be provided for any oil-fired central heating appliances which may be fitted. The extinguishing medium provided in any extinguisher placed in an area of fire risk shall be suitable for the type of fire risk involved.

Requirements for vessels of 24.4 metres in length and over but less than 45 metres in length103

1

In every vessel of 24.4 metres in length and over but less than 45 metres in length to which these Rules apply a fixed fire smothering gas installation shall be provided in every vessel, the hull of which is constructed of wood or glass reinforced plastic, for the protection of the machinery space. Such installation shall comply with the requirements of Rule 113 of these Rules except that the quantity of free fire smothering gas provided shall be equivalent to at least 60 per cent of the gross volume of the machinery space, or in the case of any such vessel where the machinery space is bounded by steel bulkheads the quantity of fire smothering gas shall be equivalent to at least 40 per cent of the gross volume of that space.

2

In every such vessel fire appliances shall be provided whereby at least one of the jets of water required by this Rule can reach any part of the vessel normally accessible to the crew while the vessel is being navigated and any store room and any part of any hold space when empty.

3

In every such vessel at least one fire pump operated by power shall be provided which shall be capable of delivering at least one jet of water from any fire hydrant, hose and nozzle provided in the vessel and which shall comply with the requirements of Rule 107 of these Rules.

4

In every such vessel if the pump required by paragraph (3) above and its source of power and sea connection are not situated outside spaces containing oil-fired boilers or internal combustion type propelling machinery, there shall be provided in a position outside such spaces an additional fire pump and its source of power and sea connection. If this pump is operated by power it shall comply with the requirements of paragraph (3) above and if it is manually operated it shall be provided with a hose and a 9.5 millimetre diameter nozzle through which it shall be capable of producing a jet of water having a throw of not less than 6 metres which can be directed on to any part of the vessel.

5

In every such vessel a fire main, water service pipes and hydrants shall be provided, which shall comply with the requirements of Rule 108 of these Rules, and at least two fire hoses and one spare fire hose.

6

A spray nozzle suitable for use with the fire hoses required by paragraph (5) above shall be provided in every such vessel fitted with oil-fired boilers or internal combustion type propelling machinery.

7

In every such vessel a sufficient number of portable fire extinguishers shall be provided to ensure that at least one such extinguisher will be readily available for use in any part of the accommodation or service spaces. Not less than three extinguishers shall be provided of which one extinguisher suitable for extinguishing oil fires shall be provided adjacent to any oil-fired central heating appliance which may be fitted. The extinguishing medium provided in any extinguisher placed in an area of fire risk shall be suitable for the type of fire risk involved.

8

In every such vessel at least one of the following fixed fire extinguishing installations shall be provided for the protection of any space containing any oil-fired boiler, oil fuel settling tank or oil fuel unit in vessels other than those which comply with paragraph (1) above:—

a

a pressure water spraying system complying with the requirements of Rule 112 of these Rules;

b

a fire smothering gas or steam installation complying with the requirements of Rule 113 of these Rules;

c

a foam fire extinguishing installation complying with the requirements of Rule 114 of these Rules.

If the engine and boiler rooms are not entirely separated from each other by a bulkhead, or if fuel oil can drain from the boiler room into the engine room, the combined engine room and boiler room shall, for the purpose of this paragraph of this Rule, be regarded as a single space.

9

In every such vessel in addition to the requirements of paragraph (8) above there shall be provided:—

a

in each boiler room and in each space which contains any part of any oil fuel installation, at least two portable fire extinguishers suitable for extinguishing oil fires;

b

in each firing space a receptacle containing at least 0.15 cubic metres of sand or other dry material suitable for quenching oil fires together with a scoop for its distribution, or alternatively an additional portable fire extinguisher suitable for extinguishing oil fires.

10

In every such vessel one portable fire extinguisher suitable for extinguishing oil fires for each 100 bhp or part thereof of such machinery shall be provided in any space containing internal combustion type machinery, except that no more than seven such fire extinguishers shall be required in any one space and that alternatively there may be provided two such extinguishers together with either:—

a

one foam fire extinguisher of at least 45 litres capacity; or

b

one carbon dioxide fire extinguisher of at least 16 kilogrammes capacity.

11

In every such vessel at least one fireman's outfit shall be provided.

12

In every such vessel a water spray system, independent of any system fitted in the machinery space and which may be connected to the fire main, shall be fitted in the net store and be operable from outside the space.

Requirements for vessels of 21 metres in length and over but less than 24.4 metres in length104

1

In every vessel of 21 metres in length and over but less than 24.4 metres in length to which these Rules apply fire appliances shall be provided whereby at least one jet of water can reach any part of the vessel normally accessible to the crew while the vessel is being navigated and any store room and any part of any hold space when empty.

2

Where any oil-fired boilers or internal combustion type propelling machinery is installed in any such vessel the hull of which is constructed of wood or glass reinforced plastic and decked in way of the machinery space a means shall be provided outside the machinery space for rapidly injecting into that space a quantity of free fire smothering gas equivalent to at least 60 per cent of the gross volume of that space, or in the case of any such vessel where the machinery space is bounded by steel bulkheads, a quantity of fire smothering gas equivalent to 40 per cent of the gross volume of the space.

3

In every such vessel at least one fire pump operated by power shall be provided which shall be capable of delivering at least one jet of water from any fire hydrant, hose and nozzle provided in the vessel and which shall comply with the requirements of Rule 107 of these Rules. This pump may be driven by the main engine.

4

In every such vessel where oil-fired boilers or internal combustion type propelling machinery are installed, if the pump required by paragraph (3) above and its source of power and sea connection are not situated outside spaces containing such boilers or machinery, there shall be provided in a position outside such spaces an additional fire pump and its source of power and sea connection. If this pump is operated by power it shall comply with the requirements of paragraph (3) above and if it is manually operated it shall be provided with a hose and a 9.5 millimetre diameter nozzle through which it shall be capable of producing a jet of water having a throw of not less than 6 metres which can be directed on to any part of the vessel.

5

In every such vessel a fire main, water service pipes and hydrants shall be provided which shall comply with the requirements of Rule 108 of these Rules and at least two fire hoses.

6

A spray nozzle suitable for use with the fire hoses required by paragraph (5) above shall be provided in every such vessel fitted with oil-fired boilers or internal combustion type propelling machinery.

7

In every such vessel at least three portable fire extinguishers so situated as to be readily available for use in the accommodation and service spaces shall be provided. The extinguishing medium provided in any extinguisher placed in an area of fire risk shall be suitable for the type of fire risk involved.

8

At least two portable fire extinguishers suitable for extinguishing oil fires shall be provided in every such vessel which is fitted with oil-fired boilers or internal combustion type propelling machinery in addition to the requirements of paragraph (7) above.

9

In every such vessel which is fully-decked a fireman's axe shall be provided.

Requirements for vessels of 9 metres in length and over but less than 21 metres in length105

1

In every vessel of 9 metres in length and over but less than 21 metres in length to which these Rules apply fire appliances shall be provided whereby at least one jet of water can reach any part of the vessel normally accessible to the crew while the vessel is being navigated and any store room and any part of any hold space when empty.

2

Where any oil-fired boiler or internal combustion type propelling machinery is installed in any such vessel the hull of which is constructed of wood or glass reinforced plastic and decked in way of the machinery space a means shall be provided outside the machinery space for rapidly injecting into that space a quantity of fire smothering gas equivalent to at least 60 per cent of the gross volume of that space, or in any case where the machinery space is bounded by steel bulkheads, a quantity of free fire smothering gas equivalent to 40 per cent of the gross volume of the space, provided that there may be substituted a water spraying system supplied from a hand pump and a permanent sea connection situated outside the machinery space which may be the hand pump and the permanent connection referred to in paragraph (3) below. Such pump shall be connected by fixed piping to a sufficient number of water spraying nozzles suitably sited in the machinery space and capable of extinguishing oil fires.

3

In every such vessel a hand pump with a permanent sea connection and a hose with a 9.5 millimetre diameter nozzle capable of producing a jet of water having a throw of not less than 6 metres which can be directed on to any part of the vessel shall be provided in a position outside the machinery spaces and in addition a spray nozzle suitable for use with the hose.

4

In every such vessel at least two portable fire extinguishers shall be provided. The extinguishing medium provided shall be suitable for the type of fire risk involved.

5

In every such vessel at least two portable fire extinguishers suitable for extinguishing oil fires shall be provided in vessels fitted with oil-fired boilers or internal combustion type propelling machinery in addition to the requirements of paragraph (4) above.

Requirements for vessels less than 9 metres in length106

1

Every vessel less than 9 metres in length to which these Rules apply shall be provided in a position outside the machinery space with a hand pump fitted with a permanent sea connection, a hose with a 9.5 millimetre nozzle capable of producing a jet of water having a throw of not less than 6 metres which can be directed on to any part of the vessel and in addition a spray nozzle suitable for use with the hose, provided that two fire buckets, one of which shall be fitted with a lanyard, may be substituted for such equipment but such buckets shall not be required in addition to buckets provided in compliance with paragraph (2) below.

2

Every such vessel shall be provided with two portable fire extinguishers or with two fire buckets. When fire buckets are provided at least one shall be fitted with a lanyard.

3

In addition to the requirements of paragraph (2) above every such vessel which is fitted with oil fired boilers or internal combustion type propelling machinery shall be provided with portable fire extinguishers suitable for extinguishing oil fires in accordance with the following table:—

Length of vessel in metres

Minimum number of extinguishers

Under 6 metres

1

6 metres and over but less than 9 metres

2

Requirements for fire pumps107

1

In every vessel to which these Rules apply fire pumps operated by power (other than any emergency fire pump) shall together be capable of delivering for fire fighting purposes a quantity of water under the conditions and at the pressure specified in Rule 108 which shall not be less than the quantity obtained from the following formula:—

Quantity of water in cubic metres per hour = km2

Where:

k = 0.008 for vessels required to be provided with more than one fire pump (excluding any emergency fire pump) and k = 0.004 for vessels required to be provided with only one fire pump; and

Image_r00003

where

L = Principal Length of the vessel in metres;

B = Principal Breadth of the vessel in metres;

D = Principal Depth of the vessel in metres;

Provided that in any such vessel the total capacity of the fire pumps for fire fighting purposes shall not be required to exceed 180 cubic metres per hour.

2

In every such vessel every fire pump required to be operated by power shall, except as expressly provided otherwise, be operated by a means other than the vessel's main engines. Fire pumps may be sanitary, ballast, bilge or general service pumps provided that they are not normally used for pumping oil and that if they are subject to occasional duty for the transfer or pumping of oil, suitable changeover arrangements are fitted and operating instructions are conspicuously displayed at the changeover position, stating that the pump must be flushed through and returned to fire duty immediately after the oil pumping duty is completed.

3

In every such vessel—

a

where more than one fire pump operated by power is required (other than any emergency pump) every fire pump shall have a capacity of not less than 80 per cent of the total capacity of the fire pumps required by paragraph (1) above divided by the number of fire pumps required to be provided. In any vessel where more fire pumps operated by power are provided than are required by these Rules the capacity of any such additional fire pumps may be less than that required by paragraph (1) above;

b

every fire pump required to be operated by power shall be capable of producing from any fire hydrant or hydrants at least the minimum number of jets of water required by these Rules as appropriate to the length of vessel, while maintaining the pressure required by Rule 108(2) of these Rules.

4

In every such vessel relief valves shall be provided in conjunction with all fire pumps if the pumps are capable of developing a pressure exceeding the design pressure of the fire main, water service pipes, hydrants and hoses. These valves shall be placed and adjusted so as to prevent excessive pressure in any part of the fire main system.

5

In every such vessel every centrifugal pump connected to the fire main shall be fitted with a non-return valve.

6

In every such vessel power pumps driven by the main propulsion machinery shall only be used as fire pumps if the main machinery can be readily disconnected from the propeller shafting.

7

In every such vessel—

a

independent starting arrangements for emergency fire pumps shall be provided and shall be readily accessible and easy to operate;

b

where the emergency fire pump is electrically driven the emergency generator shall be capable of being started manually;

c

where the emergency fire pump a driven by a direct or hydraulically coupled diesel engine the engine shall be capable of being started manually,

d

these pumps shall be positioned so that the supply of water is ensured at all times and the pumps are not likely to be cut off by fire or smoke in the compartment containing the main fire pumps;

e

a discharge connection from the emergency fire pump to the fire main shall be fitted and means provided for isolating the machinery spaces from the fire main;

f

where the emergency fire pump is used for the production of foam for a machinery space fixed foam system, or for recharging a pre-mixed foam installation, the pump capacity shall be sufficient to provide such facility in addition to the jets of water required by these Rules;

g

any service fuel tank for use with emergency pumping units shall provide at least three hours running on full load and sufficient fuel shall be available to enable the unit to be run at full output for at least 12 hours.

Requirements for the fire main, water service pipes and hydrants108

1

In every vessel to which these Rules apply where fire pumps are operated by power the diameter of the fire main and of the water service pipes connecting the hydrants thereto shall be sufficient for the effective distribution of the maximum discharge required by these Rules from—

a

the power pump where only one pump is required by the Rules; or

b

both power pumps operating simultaneously where two such pumps are so required:

Provided that the diameter of the fire main and of the water service pipes shall be required to be sufficient only for the discharge of 140 cubic metres per hour.

2

In every such vessel when the fire pumps are discharging the quantity of water required by paragraph (1) above through adjacent fire hydrants in any part of the vessel from nozzles of sizes specified in Rule 109 of these Rules the following minimum pressure shall be capable of being maintained at any hydrant:—

a

in vessels of 60 metres in length and upwards—2.6 kilogrammes force per square centimetre; or

b

vessels under 60 metres in length—2 kilogrammes force per square centimetre.

3

Where any such vessel is required by the Rules to provide—

a

two jets of water under the conditions required by these Rules a sufficient number of hydrants shall be so positioned as to enable at least two jets of water not emanating from the same hydrant, one of which shall be from a single length of hose, to reach any part of the vessel normally accessible to the crew while the vessel is being navigated, and any store room and any part of any hold space when empty;

b

one jet of water under the conditions required by these Rules a sufficient number of hydrants shall be so positioned as to enable one jet of water from a single length of hose to reach any part of the vessel normally accessible to the crew while the vessel is being navigated, and any store room and any part of any hold space when empty.

4

In every such vessel the fire main shall have no connections with other than those necessary for fire-fighting and washing down.

5

In every such vessel materials readily rendered ineffective by heat shall not be used for fire mains unless adequately protected. The pipes and fire hydrants shall be so placed that the fire hoses may be easily coupled to them. Unless one fire hose and nozzle is provided for each fire hydrant in the vessel all fire hose couplings and nozzles shall be interchangeable.

6

In every such vessel valves of the screw lift type or cocks shall be fitted in such positions on the pipes that any of the fire hoses may be removed while the fire pumps are at work.

7

In every such vessel the water pipes shall not be made of cast iron, and if made of iron or steel shall be galvanised.

8

In every such vessel where wash deck lines are not self-draining suitable drain cocks shall be fitted to avoid damage by frost.

Requirements for fire hoses, nozzles, etc109

1

In every such vessel to which these Rules apply fire hoses provided in compliance with these Rules shall not exceed 18 metres in length. These hoses shall be made of closely woven flax canvas or other suitable material and shall be provided with couplings, branch-pipes and other necessary fittings, and with a plain nozzle in addition to any spray nozzle required by these Rules.

2

In every such vessel every fire hose, together with the tools and fittings necessary for its use, shall be kept in a conspicuous position near the hydrant or connections with which it is intended to be used.

3

In every such vessel—

a

fire pumps operated by power shall be provided with nozzles of 12 millimetres, 16 millimetres or 20 millimetres in diameter, or as near thereto in diameter as possible. Nozzles larger in diameter may be provided if the requirements of these Rules relating to the provision of water for fire-fighting purposes are otherwise met;

b

the diameter of the nozzles for machinery spaces and exterior locations shall be such as to obtain the maximum possible discharge from the minimum number of jets of water and at the pressure required by these Rules from the smallest fire pump permitted by Rule 107(3)(a) of these Rules;

provided that the diameter of the nozzles shall not be required to be greater than 20 millimetres;

c

the diameter of the nozzles for accommodation and service spaces shall not be required to be greater than 12 millimetres;

d

every spray nozzle shall be capable of producing a water spray suitable for extinguishing oil fires and shall be provided in addition to any plain nozzle required by paragraph (1) above;

provided that a dual-purpose nozzle capable of producing such a spray and a plain water jet may be provided as a substitute.

Requirements for fire extinguishers110

1

In every vessel to which these Rules apply non-portable foam and carbon dioxide fire extinguishers shall be constructed in accordance with the requirements of Schedules 20 and 21 to these Rules respectively.

2

In every such vessel—

a

portable fire extinguishers (other than carbon dioxide fire extinguishers) shall, if they are of a type discharging fluid, have a capacity of not more than 13.5 litres and not less than 9 litres;

b

portable carbon dioxide fire extinguishers shall have a capacity of not less than 3 kilogrammes of carbon dioxide;

c

portable dry powder fire extinguishers shall have a capacity of not less than 4.5 kilogrammes of dry powder;

d

portable fire extinguishers of other types shall be of not less fire extinguishing capability than a 9 litres fluid fire extinguisher;

e

portable fire extinguishers shall not exceed 25 kilogrammes in weight in the fully charged service condition.

3

In every such vessel portable fire extinguishers for use in accommodation or service spaces shall, so far as practicable, have a uniform method of operation.

4

In every such vessel portable fire extinguishers shall, subject to the limitations of paragraphs (2) and (3) above, be constructed in accordance with the specifications set out in Schedule 22 to these Rules.

5

In every such vessel where portable dry powder fire extinguishers are provided in accommodation and service spaces or in machinery spaces their number shall not exceed one half of the total number of extinguishers provided in either of those spaces.

6

In every such vessel fire extinguishers shall not contain an extinguishing medium which is harmful to persons.

7

In every such vessel for the purposes of these Rules the capacity of any fire extinguisher other than a carbon dioxide fire extinguisher shall be taken to be the greatest volume or weight of extinguishing medium which it can contain when sufficient space is left to ensure the proper operation of the extinguisher and the capacity of a carbon dioxide fire extinguisher shall be taken to be two-thirds of a kilogramme of carbon dioxide for each litre of water capacity of the cylinder.

8

In every such vessel every fire extinguisher provided shall be kept fully charged at all times.

9

In every such vessel a spare charge shall be provided for every portable fire extinguisher except that for each such fire extinguisher which is of a type that cannot readily be recharged while the vessel is at sea, an additional portable fire extinguisher of the same type or its equivalent shall be provided in lieu of a spare charge.

Requirements for fire alarm and fire detection systems111

1

In every vessel to which these Rules apply, where an automatic fire alarm and fire detection system is installed it shall comply with the requirements specified in this Rule and shall be installed and so arranged as to protect all accommodation spaces and service spaces in the vessel provided that the foregoing provisions of this Rule shall not apply:—

a

to the extent that there is no substantial fire risk in the accommodation spaces and service spaces; or

b

in respect of any store room which is provided with adequate arrangements for the detection of fire or for the smothering of fire by gas or other suitable means.

2

In every such vessel every fire detection system shall be fit for its intended service and be capable of automatically indicating the presence of fire and its location. The indicators shall be positioned in the wheelhouse or they may be distributed among several stations provided such distribution is at least as effective as if the indicators were positioned in the wheelhouse.

3

The indicating system of any fire detecting system in every such vessel shall operate both audible and visible alarms at the stations referred to in paragraph (2) above.

4

In every such vessel of 24.4 metres in length and over electrical equipment used in the operation of any fire detection system fitted in compliance with these Rules shall be supplied from two sources of electric power one of which shall be the emergency source of power required by Rule 41 of these Rules.

Requirements for fixed pressure water spraying system for machinery spaces112

1

In every vessel to which these Rules apply every fixed pressure water spraying system shall be provided with a pump, piping system, control valve and spraying nozzles.

2

In every such vessel the spraying nozzles shall be of such a type, sufficient in number and so arranged as to ensure such distribution of water spray as will effectively extinguish oil on fire in the spaces protected thereby. Spraying nozzles shall be fitted above bilges, tank tops and other areas over which oil fuel is liable to spread and above other main fire hazards in the spaces to be protected.

3

In every such vessel the water spraying system may be divided into sections and shall be controlled from distribution manifolds, the valves of which shall be capable of being operated from easily accessible positions outside the spaces to be protected, and which will not be readily cut off by an outbreak of fire.

4

In every such vessel the water spraying system shall be kept charged at the necessary pressure and the pump supplying the water for the system shall be automatically put into action by a pressure drop in the system.

5

In every such vessel the pump shall be capable of supplying water at the necessary pressure simultaneously to all sections of the water spraying system in any one compartment to be protected. The pump and its controls shall be installed outside the space or spaces to be protected. It shall not be possible for a fire in the space or spaces protected by the water spraying system to put the system out of action.

6

In every such vessel means shall be provided which will prevent nozzles from becoming clogged by impurities in the water or corrosion of piping, nozzles, valves and pump.

7

In every such vessel the water spraying system shall include mobile sprayers ready for immediate use in the firing area of the boiler or in the vicinity of the oil fuel unit.

8

In every such vessel operating instructions in clear and permanent lettering shall be affixed to every water spraying system or in a position adjacent thereto.

Requirements for fixed fire smothering gas and steam installations113

1

In every vessel to which these Rules apply fixed fire smothering gas or steam installations shall where fitted comply with the requirements of this Rule except that in vessels to which Rules 103(1), 104(2) and 105(2) apply the quantity of gas carried shall be sufficient to give the minimum quantity of free gas required by those Rules.

2

In every such vessel in every installation provided for the injection of gas or steam into machinery or hold spaces for fire extinguishing purposes, the pipes for conveying the gas or steam shall be provided with control valves or cocks which shall be so placed that they will be easily accessible and not readily cut off from use by an outbreak of fire. These control valves or cocks shall be permanently marked to indicate clearly the compartments to which the pipes are led. Suitable provision shall be made to prevent inadvertent admission of the gas or steam to any compartment.

3

In every such vessel the piping shall be so arranged as to provide effective distribution of fire smothering gas or steam. Where steam is used in any hold exceeding 18 metres in length there shall be at least two pipes one of which shall be fitted in the forward part and one in the after part of the hold.

4

In every such vessel—

a

where carbon dioxide is used as the extinguishing medium in hold spaces, the quantity of gas available shall be sufficient to give a minimum volume of free gas equal to 30 per cent of the gross volume of the largest hold compartment in the vessel which is capable of being sealed;

b

where carbon dioxide is used as an extinguishing medium for spaces containing boilers or machinery, the quantity of gas carried shall be sufficient to give a minimum quantity of free gas equal to the larger of the following quantities, either:—

i

40 per cent of the gross volume of the largest space containing boilers or machinery, such volume being measured up to the level at which the horizontal area of the casing is 40 per cent or less of the gross area of such space; or

ii

35 per cent of the gross volume of the largest space containing boilers or machinery, including the casing;

provided that the aforesaid percentages may be reduced to 35 per cent and 30 per cent respectively for vessels of under 70 metres in length and provided that if two or more spaces containing boilers or machinery are not entirely separate they shall, for the purposes of this Rule, be considered as forming one compartment;

c

where carbon dioxide is used as the extinguishing medium for a space containing any oil-fired boiler or oil fuel installation a quantity of gas which can be discharged without danger to the operator shall be available for manual application, by means of a suitable applicator, in the firing area of the boiler and in the vicinity of the oil fuel unit;

d

where carbon dioxide is used as the extinguishing medium both for hold spaces and for spaces containing boilers or machinery the quantity of gas shall not be required to be more than the maximum required either for the largest hold compartment or machinery space. For the purpose of this paragraph the volume of gas shall be calculated at 0·56 cubic metres to 1 kilogramme;

e

when carbon dioxide is used as the extinguishing medium for any space containing boilers or machinery the fixed piping system shall be such that 85 per cent of the gas required to provide the concentration referred to in paragraph (b) above, when applied to the space concerned, can be discharged into that space within two minutes;

f

means shall be provided for giving audible warning to persons within the space when carbon dioxide, other than that specified in paragraph (c) above, is about to be released into any working space.

5

In every such vessel when steam is used as the extinguishing medium in hold spaces the boiler or boilers available for supplying steam shall have an evaporation of at least 1 kilogramme of steam per hour for each 0·75 cubic metres of the gross volume of the largest hold compartment. The arrangements shall be such that steam will be available immediately and will not be dependent on the lighting of boilers and that it can be supplied continuously until the end of the voyage in the quantity required by this paragraph in addition to any steam necessary for the normal requirements of the vessel including propulsion and that provision is made for extra feed water necessary to meet this requirement.

6

In every such vessel suitable halogenated hydrocarbons in suitable and safe concentrations may be used as a fire extinguishing medium in engine and boiler rooms.

7

In every such vessel operating instructions in clear and permanent lettering shall be affixed to every fixed fire smothering gas installation or in a position adjacent thereto.

Requirements for fixed foam fire extinguishing installations114

1

In every vessel to which these Rules apply every fixed foam fire extinguishing installation shall be capable of discharging through fixed discharge outlets in not more than 5 minutes a quantity of foam sufficient to cover to a depth of 152 millimetres the largest single area over which oil fuel is liable to spread. This installation shall be capable of generating foam suitable for extinguishing oil fires and means shall be provided for the effective distribution of the foam through a permanent system of piping and control valves or cocks to discharge outlets, and for the foam to be effectively directed by fixed sprayers on other main oil fire hazards in the protected space either simultaneously or separately. The installation shall include mobile sprayers ready for immediate use in the firing area of the boiler and in the vicinity of the oil fuel unit.

2

In every such vessel every fixed foam fire extinguishing installation shall be so arranged that a fire in any of the spaces it protects will not render the controls inaccessible or put the installation out of action.

3

In every such vessel operating instructions in clear and permanent lettering shall be affixed to every fixed foam fire extinguishing installation or in a position adjacent thereto.

Requirements for firemen's outfits115

1

In every vessel to which these Rules apply every fireman's outfit shall consist of:—

a

a breathing apparatus complying with the requirements set out in Schedule 23 to these Rules;

b

a portable self-contained electric battery-operated safety lamp capable of functioning efficiently for a period of at least three hours; and

c

a fireman's axe.

2

In every such vessel where two or more such outfits are provided they shall be kept in readily accessible and widely separated positions which are not likely to be cut off in the event of fire.

Means for stopping machinery, shutting off oil fuel suction pipes and closing of openings116

1

In every vessel to which these Rules apply means for stopping ventilating fans serving machinery, accommodation and hold spaces shall be provided. Means shall be provided for closing all skylights, doorways, ventilators, funnel ventilation openings and other openings in machinery and hold spaces. Such means shall be capable of being operated from positions outside the spaces which would not be made inaccessible by a fire within such spaces.

2

In every such vessel machinery driving forced and induced draught fans, oil fuel transfer pumps, oil fuel unit pumps and other similar fuel pumps shall be fitted with remote controls situated outside the spaces in which such machinery or pumps are situated. Such controls shall be capable of stopping such machinery or pumps in the event of fire in the said spaces.

3

In every such vessel every pipe connected to any oil fuel storage, settling, or daily service tank, not being a double bottom tank, which if damaged would permit discharge of the contents so as to cause a fire hazard, shall be fitted with a valve or cock which shall be secured to the tank to which it is connected and which shall be capable of being closed from a readily accessible position outside the space in which the tank is situated, provided that in the case of any inlet pipe to such a tank a non-return valve similarly secured to the tank may be substituted. In the case of an oil fuel deep tank traversed by any shaft or pipe tunnel, a valve shall be fitted on the tank but an additional valve or valves may be fitted on the pipeline or lines outside the tunnel or tunnels to enable control to be exercised in the event of fire.

4

In every such vessel the remote electric stops of ventilation fans serving accommodation spaces shall be operable from the wheelhouse.

Fire control plans117

1

In every vessel of 45 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply there shall be permanently exhibited for the guidance of the crew general arrangement plans showing clearly for each deck the position of the control stations, the sections of the vessel which are enclosed by fire resisting bulkheads, the sections of the vessel which are enclosed by fire retarding bulkheads, together with particulars of the fire detection systems, the fixed and portable fire extinguishing appliances and firemen's outfits, the means of access to the various compartments and decks in the vessel, the ventilating system including particulars of the master fan controls, the position of dampers and identification numbers of the ventilating fans serving each section of the vessel, the location of the international shore connection and the position of all means of control referred to in Rule 116 of these Rules.

2

In every such vessel the general arrangement plans required by this Rule shall be kept up-to-date, any alterations being recorded thereon without delay.

Availability of fire-fighting appliances118

In every vessel to which these Rules apply, fire appliances shall be maintained in good order and shall be kept available for immediate use at all times. All movable fire appliances, other than firemen's outfits, shall be stowed where they will be readily accessible from the spaces in which they are intended to be used, and, in particular, one of the portable fire extinguishers intended for use in any space shall be stowed near the entrance to that space.

CMUSTERS AND DRILLS

Muster list119

1

The skipper of every vessel of 24.4 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply shall prepare or cause to be prepared a muster list showing in respect of each member of the crew the special duties which are allotted to him and the station to which he shall go in the event of an emergency (hereinafter referred to as “emergency station”).

2

In every such vessel, the muster list shall specify definite signals to be made on the whistle or siren for calling the crew to the emergency station and shall include the emergency signal which shall consist of a succession of seven or more short blasts followed by one long blast. In every vessel of 45 metres in length and over the signals by made on the whistle or siren shall be supplemented by bells or other means of warning which shall be electrically operated and which shall be capable of being operated from the bridge. The muster list shall also specify the means of indicating when the vessel is to be abandoned.

3

In every such vessel of 24.4 metres in length and over the muster list shall show the duties assigned to the different members of the crew in connection with:—

a

the preparation and launching of the boats and life-rafts attached to davits or to other launching appliances;

b

the preparation and launching of life-rafts not attached to davits and other life-saving appliances;

c

the operation of fire appliances for extinction of fire.

4

In every such vessel the muster list shall be prepared, or if a new list is not necessary revised, each time a new agreement with the crew has been signed and before the vessel proceeds to sea, and shall be dated and signed by the skipper.

5

In every such vessel if, after the muster list has been prepared, any change takes place in the crew which necessitates an alteration in the muster list, the skipper shall either revise the list or prepare a new list.

6

In every such vessel, copies of the muster list shall be posted in the crew's quarters and at the main control station before the vessel proceeds to sea and shall be kept so posted while the vessel is at sea.

Training120

1

In vessels of 24·4 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply musters of the crew shall take place at the commencement of each voyage and at intervals of not more than 14 days thereafter, and if more than 25% of the crew have been replaced at any port one of such musters shall take place within 48 hours of leaving that port to ensure that the crew understand and are drilled in the duties assigned to them in the event of an emergency.

2

In vessels of 12 metres in length and over but less than 24·4 metres in length to which these Rules apply the skipper shall ensure that the crew are trained in the use of all life-saving and fire appliances and equipment with which the vessel is provided and shall ensure that all members of the crew know where the equipment is stowed and such training shall be carried out at intervals of not more than one month.

3

In vessels of 75 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply drills shall be so arranged that every life boat is swung out at least once per month and, if reasonable and practicable, lowered at least once every four months.

4

In vessels of 24·4 metres in length and over but less than 75 metres in length to which these Rules apply the Class C boat or inflatable boat shall be swung out at each drill and, if equipped with an engine, the engine shall be operated.

Inspections121

1

In vessels of 24·4 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply life-saving and fire appliances and equipment shall be inspected when musters of the crew are held, and in any case at intervals of not more than one month to ensure that all equipment is in good condition and always ready for immediate use.

2

In vessels of 12 metres in length and over but less than 24.4 metres in length to which these Rules apply inspections of the life-saving equipment and fire appliances shall be made at intervals of not more than one month.

PART IVEXCEPTIONAL PROVISIONS

Exceptional provisions122

Where these Rules require that the hull or machinery of a vessel shall be constructed in a particular manner or that any particular equipment, fitting, material, appliance or apparatus shall be provided or that particular provisions shall be made, the hull or machinery of the vessel may be constructed in any other manner or any other equipment, fitting, material appliance or apparatus may be provided or other provision made which is at least as effective as that required by these Rules.

PART VSURVEYS AND CERTIFICATES

Surveys and periodical inspections123

Every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply shall be surveyed and periodically inspected in accordance with the requirements of this Part of these Rules.

Surveys124

A surveyor appointed by the Secretary of State shall survey the vessel, after such plans, drawings, specifications, documents and information as he may require have been provided for his use by the owner of the vessel and any fee payable has been paid, in order to ascertain whether the vessel complies with such requirements of Parts II and III of these Rules as apply to it and for that purpose may require the vessel and any of its machinery, fittings and equipment to be submitted to such tests as he considers necessary, except that in the case of vessels classed with Lloyd's Register of Shipping or in respect of which a grant or loan has been made or is to be made under the Sea Fish Industry Act 1970 and which are thereby subject to inspection by a person authorised by the White Fish Authority or the Herring Industry Board, a surveyor appointed by Lloyd's Register of Shipping, the White Fish Authority or the Herring Industry Board, as the case may be, may survey the vessel in order to ascertain whether the vessel complies with such requirements of Rules 2 to 14 inclusive and 17 to 54 inclusive of these Rules as apply to it and for that purpose may require the vessel and any of its machinery, fittings and equipment to be submitted to such tests as he considers necessary.

Surveyor's report and declaration of survey125

1

On completion of the survey, the surveyor shall provide the Secretary of State with a declaration of survey.

2

The surveyor shall complete and append to the declaration of survey a record of particulars and report in the form set out in Schedule 2 to these Rules or a form as near thereto as circumstances permit which shall contain the particulars required by that form. Such particulars may be given by attaching to the record a copy of the surveyor's report and associated plans and documents, if any, and specifying in the record passages in the report in which the relevant particulars are given.

3

Two copies of the record shall be sent to the owner of the vessel on first survey and shall be produced for inspection and the addition of the surveyor's report and subsequent surveys.

Issue and form of fishing vessel certificates126

If the Secretary of State is satisfied that the vessel has been duly surveyed in accordance with the foregoing provisions of these Rules and:—

a

complies with such of the requirements of Parts II and III of these Rules, the radio rules, rules for direction finders and the rules for navigational aids as are or will be applicable to the vessel; and

b

is properly provided with the lights, shapes and means of making sound signals required by the collision regulations,

a United Kingdom fishing vessel certificate in the form set out in Schedule 1 to these Rules shall be issued to the owner of the vessel.

Duration of certificates127

Except as otherwise provided in these Rules, a United Kingdom fishing vessel certificate shall be in force for 48 months from the date of its issue or such shorter period as may be specified in the certificate.

Extension of certificates128

1

Subject to paragraph (2) below, where application has been made to the Secretary of State by the owner of a vessel in respect of which a United Kingdom fishing vessel certificate is in force, for issue of a further United Kingdom fishing vessel certificate to take effect on the expiry of the current certificate and following that application the vessel has been duly surveyed in accordance with Rule 124 of these Rules, if the Secretary of State is satisfied on receipt of the surveyor's report that the vessel complies with the requirements of Parts II and III of these Rules (other than those relating to stability) but by reason of the absence of stability information or otherwise, the further United Kingdom fishing vessel certificate may not be issued before the date of expiry of the current certificate, the period of validity of that current certificate may be extended for a period not exceeding two months.

2

No such extension shall have effect for the purposes of these Rules unless particulars of the date to which the period of validity is extended, together with particulars of the place at and the date on which such extension was given, are endorsed by the Secretary of State on the current certificate.

3

The period of validity of any United Kingdom fishing vessel certificate coming into force immediately on the expiry of a certificate extended pursuant to this Rule shall not exceed a period of four years commencing on the date on which the survey referred to in paragraph (1) above was begun.

Cancellation of certificates129

The Secretary of State may cancel a United Kingdom fishing vessel certificate:—

a

if he is satisfied:—

i

that any declaration of survey on which the certificate was founded has been in any particular made fraudulently or erroneously;

ii

that the certificate has been issued upon false or erroneous information;

iii

that since the making of the declaration, the hull, equipment or machinery have sustained any damage or are otherwise inadequate for their intended service;

b

if the certificate is not endorsed in the manner set out in Rule 130 of these Rules where the vessel is required to have been inspected in accordance with the requirements of that Rule;

c

if a new certificate is issued in respect of the vessel;

d

if the vessel has ceased to be registered in the United Kingdom under Part I or entered in the fishing boat register under Part IV of the Merchant Shipping Act 1894; or

e

if the vessel has ceased to be classed with Lloyd's Register of Shipping or has ceased to be subject to inspection by the White Fish Authority or the Herring Industry Board.

Periodical inspection of fishing vessels130

1

Every vessel in respect of which a United Kingdom fishing vessel certificate is in force shall be periodically inspected in accordance with the provisions of this Rule by a surveyor appointed by the Secretary of State in order to ascertain that:—

a

the fittings and appliances for the protection of openings, the guard rails, the freeing ports, the means of access to and escape from the crew accommodation, the life-saving appliances and machinery and fittings used in the operation of fishing, the radio equipment and installations and the lights, shapes and means of making sound signals required by the collision regulations are in an effective condition and comply with the requirements of the Rules applicable to them; and

b

since the date of issue of the current certificate, no changes have been made or taken place in the hull, machinery, pumping arrangements or superstructures of the vessel as a result of which the vessel fails to comply with such of the requirements of Parts II and III of these Rules as apply to it or the stability characteristics of the vessel have been altered.

2

Application for periodical inspection shall be made by or on behalf of the owner of the vessel to the Secretary of State.

3

The surveyor appointed by the Secretary of State to carry out the periodical inspection may in the course of that inspection require the vessel and any of its machinery, fittings and equipment to be submitted to such tests as he may consider necessary to determine whether the vessel complies with the requirements of paragraph (1) above.

4

Every such vessel shall be inspected in accordance with the provisions of this Rule not less than 21 months and not more than 27 months from the date of issue of the certificate.

5

The surveyor, if satisfied after such periodical inspection that the vessel complies with the requirements of paragraph (1) above, shall endorse a record of the inspection in the space provided on the United Kingdom fishing vessel certificate and shall certify that the vessel was found to comply with the requirements of paragraph (1) above.

S. Clinton DavisParliamentary Under Secretary of State for Companies, Aviation and ShippingDepartment of Trade