Legalize / United Kingdom / Statutory-Instrument

The Fishing Vessels (Safety Provisions) Rules 1975

Type Statutory-Instrument

Publication 1975-03-06

State In force

Department Westlaw

Source legislation.gov.uk

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(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 length

42

(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;

(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 equipment

43

(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.

G — MISCELLANEOUS PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

Watertight doors

44

(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 rudders

45

(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 rudders

46

(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 rudders

47

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 gear

48

(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 over

49

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 propellers

50

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 plants

51

(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 cables

52

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, 1970[^f00008] so far as those Rules are applicable to that anchor and chain cable.

Spare gear

53

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 gear

54

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.

H — STRUCTURAL FIRE PROTECTION AND FIRE DETECTION

Structural fire protection—general

55

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 material

56

(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 plastic

57

(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 wood

58

(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 systems

59

(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 escape

60

(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 stoves

61

(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 systems

62

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.

I — PROTECTION OF THE CREW

Bulwarks, guard rails and guard wires

63

(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;

(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 decks

64

(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 ladders

65

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.

J — NAUTICAL EQUIPMENT

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

66

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 length

67

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 requirements

68

(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 equipment

69

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 publications

70

(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

(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 equipment

71

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 ladders

72

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 1965[^f00009] as amended[^f00010]

K — DOCUMENTATION TO BE CARRIED ON VESSELS

Record of particulars to be kept on vessel

73

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 vessel

74

(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 vessel

75

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 III — RULES FOR LIFE-SAVING APPLIANCES

A — LIFE-SAVING APPLIANCES AND EQUIPMENT

Requirements for vessels of 75 metres in length and over

76

(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;

(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 length

77

(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:—

(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

(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;

(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 length

78

(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:—

(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

(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;

(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 length

79

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 length

80

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;

(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 length

81

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 lifeboats

82

(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;

(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 boats

83

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 boats

84

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 liferafts

85

(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 liferafts

86

(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

(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

Requirements for lifebuoys

87

(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 lifebuoys

88

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 appliances

89

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 boats

90

(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;

(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;

(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 boats

91

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 lifeboats

92

(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 boats

93

(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 liferafts

94

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;

(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 appliances

95

(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 boats

96

(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

(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 boats

97

(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;

(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;

(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 lifejackets

98

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