1.3     PURPOSE AND SCOPE

1.3.1     INTRODUCTION

This book provides to the officer in charge of the maintenance of the fire fighting-and safety-equipment and the lifesaving appliances a complete record to monitor their condition, gives guidance for carrying out the inspections and maintenance work.

 

It also serves to comply with the SOLAS 1974 regulations, chapter III, art.52 : "to have a schedule for regular maintenance and a Safety Manual for inspections and surveys".

 

1.3.2     RESPONSIBILITIES

 

The master, chief officer and chief engineer should closely cooperate to assure that an efficient system for the control, maintenance and testing of the firefighting/detection/alarm systems and the lifesaving appliances is maintained on board.

 

The chief officer is in control of the systems and equipment and is responsible to the master that all fire fighting and safety equipment and life saving appliances are kept in good condition and are at all times ready for immediate use.

 

The chief engineer is responsible for the maintenance of:

- the systems for fire detection and fire alarm

- the fixed fire extinguishing systems (CO2, fire pumps, fire lines/valves/hydrants etc)

- the fire dampers in the ER and AC ventilation

- the technical status of the lifeboat davits/cranes and winches

- the lifeboat engines.

 

The chief officer is responsible for:

- the control and regular testing of the systems maintained by  the chief engineer

- the control , maintenance and testing of the remaining fire fighting equipment.

- the control, maintenance and testing of the lifesaving appliances and the safety equipment.

 

 

In ships with more than one deck officer, one of these officers takes over the testing and maintenance of the safety and fire fighting equipment and the life saving appliances and also keeps the Safety Manual. All this of course under the supervision of the C/O.

 

The master should notify Feederlines timely when items are due for tests or inspections by authorised experts, or when maintenance work or repairs by shore personnel or renewals are required.

 

1.3.3     READY AVAILABILITY OF EQUIPMENT

 

In all ships the safety and fire fighting equipment and the life saving appliances shall be kept in good order and available for immediate use at all times during the voyage.

 

1.3.4     HOW TO KEEP THE SAFETY MANUAL

The officer in charge of the safety equipment maintenance enters the required particulars in the proper places in the book, if necessary he first consults the C/O .

The entries about maintenance work should be restricted to those that  give information about the general condition of the equipment or appliances. Daily maintenance work such as cleaning, greasing, touching-up etc. should not be entered in this book.

 

All entries should be made accuratly and neatly as surveyors or authorities might request to see the Shipboard's Safety Manual

The space provided for entering fixed details and/or entries about maintenance work, tests, inspections etc. is sufficient for the quantity of lifesaving- and firefighting equipment found on the average Feederlines vessel. The ships that carry larger quantities of equipment must make photocopies of the pages that do not provide sufficient space and divide the entries over two or even more identical pages, numbered for instance 10a, 10b etc.   

 

No pages are to be removed from the Shipboard's Safety Manual. Pages for entering dates of inspections/tests/maintenance of equipment that is not on board are to be cancelled by drawing two diagonal lines across the page.

    

NOTE:  ALL INSPECTIONS, MAINTENANCE, TESTS AND DRILLS ARE TO BE ENTERED ALSO IN THE SHIP'S LOGBOOK!!!!

 

1.3.5     MONTHLY ENDORSEMENT

 

The officer doing the maintenance, the chief officer and the master, in this sequence, sign the book every month on the pages provided for this purpose in chapter 8. See the explanation on that page. The C/O also initials the entries about the maintenance work carried out.

 

1.3.6     ENDORSEMENT AT TRANSFER OF DUTY

 

When the officer doing the maintenance goes on leave, he hands over the Shipboard's Safety Manual to the officer who relieves him. They both sign the book, for transfer/receipt. When the relieving officer is not on board when the other one leaves, the book is transferred to the C/O or the master.

 

1.3.7     SHOWING THE BOOK TO AUTHORITIES

 

When they request to see the Shipboard's Safety Manual, or when it is desirable, the book shall be shown to the officials of the Flag state Inspectorate or other interested authorities (Port State Control). Therefore the book must be kept up-to-date at all times

1.5     CONTROL OF THE SAFETY MANUAL

 

The logbook is maintained on each vessel under responsibility of the master.

 

As and when required, revisions will be issued once a year.

 

For each subject that will have to be altered or corrected, a complete new chapter will be issued, showing at the bottom of each new page the new date of issue.

 

A checklist of revisions will accompany each set of new pages. It shows which chapters are to be removed/destroyed and replaced by new ones. This enables users to check whether their book is kept up to date or not. The old checklist is to be signed, dated and sent back to the office by the master or senior officer actually making the corrections in their copy of the Shipboard's Safety Manual. This enables the office to check whether all ships received the revisions and corrected their manuals.

2.1     FIRE HOSES

To keep the hoses in a good condition they should be used for fire drills and tests only and not for deck washing or other cleaning work

 

Every fire hose should :

 

- near the coupling show the date when taken into use

- near the coupling carry a number, corresponding with the number of the location where it is

  stowed

- be tested at least every 6 months at the full maximum pressure of the fire pump

- be examined every month to make sure that the coupling is undamaged and not deformed and

  that the rubber packing rings are intact

- be provided with a nozzle and a coupling spanner

 

 

Every nozzle should:

 

- be of an approved dual-purpose type (i.e. spray/jet type) incorporating a shutoff.

  On this type a turnnozzle enables the operator to change from jet to spray and vice versa

  without shutting-off the waterflow and also the waterflow can be shut-off at the nozzle

  when required.

  Each nozzle should be able to produce a spraying-angle of at least 120 degrees for the

  purpose of building up a waterscreen that provides adequate protection.

- be maintained regularly to keep the handle free movable.

 

 

Fire hose cabinets and fire hose reels are to be painted red.

 

 

2.2    FIRE MAINS AND HYDRANTS, FIRE PUMPS

2.2.1      FIRE MAINS AND HYDRANTS

 

All fire hydrants and (isolating) valves in the fire mains are to be checked on free movement every week. Actual testing of the fire hydrants in the acommodation should take place at least once every 6 months.

 

Fire hydrants and valves are to be painted red.

 

2.2.2      FIREPUMPS, EMERGENCY FIREPUMPS

 

At every fire drill all fire pumps are to be tested. Clear instructions in writing english must be issued by the master, specifying the procedure for operating the engine-driven emergency firepump(s). The instruction should provide a simple diagram of the equipment and show step-by-step what to do to start and operate the engine and the pump (based on the manufacturer's manual) and what valves to close or open to give water in (parts of) the firemain. 

 

Copies of these instructions are to be posted on the bridge and near the controls of the emergency firepump, and incorporated in this Safety Manual and the SOLAS Safety manuals in the messrooms.

 

All crewmembers should be trained, at least at every fire drill, how to operate the emergency fire pump.

 

2.3      FIRE DAMPERS

Every week the fire dampers in ventilation ducts and the ER fire dampers in the funnel are to be checked on free movement.

Every month all fire dampers in the ER ventilation ducts, and in the ventilation ducts of holds and accommodation are to be closed and checked on air tightness .

 

All fire dampers should be properly labeled. The handles are to be painted red and should be provided with an indicator which shows whether the damper is open or closed . This is usually obtained by painting the words "open" and "closed" ( or the letters "O" and C" )  near the handles. 

 

 

2.4  FIRE EXTINGUISHERS 

   (PORTABLE AND NON-PORTABLE)   

2.4 .1     GENERAL

 

Each fire extinghuisher should :

 

- carry an operating instructions label

- carry a label showing the date of inspection of the contents and the weighing of the 

extinghuisher

- be painted red

- carry a number, corresponding with the number of the location where it is stowed

 

2.4.2     SPARE CHARGES

 

- a "spare charge" consists of all material required to bring the extinguisher after being

used back into it's original state, ready for use ; for extinguishers that cannot be 

refilled on board a "spare charge" means a complete spare extinguisher, ready for use.

 

- for extinguishers of a certain make and type only the use of spare charges manufactured for

this make and type may be used.

 

- for each portable fire extinguisher at least one spare charge shall be available on board,

on the understanding that when several identical extinguishers ( same make/type /capacity) are on board:

* for the first three identical extinguishers 100% spare charges shall be available

and

* for the next, but not more than six, identical extinguishers at least 50% spare

charges shall be available, but when this calculation leads to a broken figure, it

may be rounded off downward to the nearest full figure.

 

-  for one or more identical non-portable fire extinguishers that can be refilled on board,

at least one spare charge shall be on board.

 

- non-portable fire extinguishers that cannot be refilled on board, shall after being used be

refilled or replaced by an identical or equivalent one ready for use, in the first port

where this can be done.

 

2.4.3     PERIODICAL EXAMINATIONS AND TESTS OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

 

- Fire extinguishers shall be examined each time after a period of maximum one year has

  elapsed

- This annual inspection may be carried out by an experienced shipsofficer or a

  representative of the manufacturer.

 

- Fire extinguishers shall be overhauled, each time after a period of maximum five years has

  elapsed, by the manufacturer of that particular extinguisher or an authorised expert

- The five-yearly overhaul is required for all types of fire extinguishers, including those

  with a charge based on water

- The five-yearly overhaul also counts as the annual inspection mentioned above

 

2.5     MISCELLANEOUS EQUIPMENT  

2.5.1     FIREMAN'S OUTFIT

 

A complete fireman's outfit shall consist of:

 

- a breathing apparatus

- 1 (set) spare cylinder(s) for the breathing apparatus

- protective clothing

- boots of electrically non-conducting material

- gloves of electrically non-conductive material

- an approved helmet

- a belt

- a fireproof line of sufficient length with snaphook

- an electric safety lamp

- a fireman's axe

 

All ships shall carry at least two fireman's outfits.

The outfits are to be inspected every month.

 

2.5.2     INTERNATIONAL SHORE CONNECTION

 

Ships of 500 tons or more shall be provided with at least one international shore connection.

Check every month whether it is still available.

 

2.5.3     SAFETY AND FIRE CONTROL PLANS

 

In all ships general arrangement plans showing the locations of the lifesaving appliances, control stations, fire sections, dampers, firedetection systems, firefighting equipment etc shall be permanently exhibited for the guidance of the ship's officers. The plans must be kept up-to-date, any alterations being recorded on it as soon as practicable. Applicances should be stored according this plan.

 

A duplicate of the plan shall be permanently stored in a prominently marked weathertight enclosure outside the deckhouse for the assistance of shoreside fire-fighting personnel.

In some ships two red containers are used, when there is more than one entrance in the accomodation.

The condition of the plans on deck is to be checked after every docking.

2.6     REQUIRED ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT

2.6 .1     GENERAL

 

Depending on the type of ship and/or nature of the cargo, additional equipment can be required.

 

2.6 .2     SHIPS THAT CARRY DANGEROUS CARGO (EXCEPT IN SMALL QUANTITIES)  

         

1. 2  additional breathing apparatusses

 

2. 4 sets of full protective clothing , resistant to chemical attack (covering all

skin, so that no part of the body is unprotected)

 

3. For the cargo holds : portable fire extinguishers with a minimum capacity of 12

           kilos drypowder or equivalent

2.7    ADDITIONAL NON-COMPULSORY EQUIPMENT

 

Approved additional equipment can be fitted or supplied by the company according the safety plan.

 

- additional breathing apparatuses and additional compressed air cylinders

- an air compressor for filling the cylinders of the breathing apparatuses

- a portable oxygen resuscitation apparatus, with spare oxygen cylinders and a 50 litres

  cylinder for refilling the spare cylinders

- portable oxygen level monitors, gas indicators, instruments to detect explosive air/gas

  mixtures

- fixed oxygen level monitors and gas indicators

- sand containers

- additional fire axes or safety lamps (hand lanterns)

- special fire extinguishers for use when pilots board by helicopter

- cotton hooks

- light water generators

- water fog applicators (water fog lances)

 

2.8     SELF-CONTAINED COMPRESSED-AIR

        BREATHING APPARATUSES (SCABA'S)

2.8.1    GENERAL

An operation/maintenance manual should be availble for each apparatus.

The crew must be trained on how to use SCABA's during every fire-drill.

 

Identical inspections, tests, maintenance work, overhauls etc. are required for SCABA's being part of the fireman's oufits and those being part of the safety outfit of tankers.

 

The tests are to be made by a responsible officer.

 

2.8.2     INSPECTIONS

 

A spare compressed-air cylinder must be available for each cylinder fitted on a SCABA.

All cylinders should be kept fully charged at all times.

 

Required inspections, tests and maintenance/overhauls of SCABA's:

 

1. Monthly inspection/test

 

The officer in charge of the safety equipment must inspect/test the SCABA :

it is in the right place

it is in satisfactory condition, clean and complete

cylinder(s) charged upto normal working pressure plus or minus 10% (manometre)

Make an entry in the ship's logbook about the inspection/test.

 

2. Annual inspection/test

 

Annually the SCABA's are be tested and inspected as described in the manual of the manufacturer, by a representative of the manufacturer. They issue a service certificate.

Make an entry in the ship's logbook about the inspection/test.

 

3.   Overhauls

 

At least once every three years, but twice in a period of 5 years the SCABA's require a complete overhaul by the representative of the manufacturer.

The apparatus should also be sent ashore to the manufacturer's representative for an overhaul when during the monthly inspections on board it is found to be defective.

 

They issue a service certificate. Make an entry in the ship's logbook about the test/overhaul.

 

4.  Hydraulic tests of cylinders

 

Aircylinders are to be externally en internally inspected and pressure tested every five years. The testingdate and the mark of the testing authority are punched into the cylinders.

 

Tests take place under the supervison of class or Shipping Inspection surveyors. A test-certificate is issued in duplicate, one submitted to the Shipping Inspection, the other kept on board.

 

2.8.3     MAINTENANCE

 

The SCABA's are to be maintained on board according to the maintenace manual of the manufacturer.

 

The monthly inspection/test must include checks on:

 

- the cleanliness in general

- the sinterfilter (metal filter where the cylinders are connected ): is it clean and free of

  corrosion (gives an indication of the quality of the compressed air used)

- the condition of the facemask and its straps (not deteriorated, torn)

- the condition of the carrying straps

- leakage of valves/connections/couplings (use soapsuds) and the conditon of the O-rings

- the low pressure audible alarm (slowly let off pressure in the apparatus with the cylinders

  closed)

- the function of the apparatus (put up the mask and breathe deeply several times, no

  resistance should be felt)

 

After use, clean the mask in lukewarm soapsuds or a desinfectant. The innermask and the speechmembrane are to be taken apart first. Then rinse thoroughly and hang it to dry in the draught, but not in the sun or near heaters etc. Do not use talcum powder, except on old natural rubber masks , but then verry sparingly.Do not deform the mask by putting it in a box folded double or under pressure.

 

 

2.8.4     COMPRESSED-AIR CYLINDERS

 

The compressed air in the cylinders is to be replaced after maximum one year, because interneal corrosion could cause rust particles in the breathing air.

 

When doubt about quality of the air, have the cylinders inspected internally ashore and

- when filled on board- check your special compressor.

 

Note: Do not store cylinders completely empty ! When the valve remains open or leaks, moisture can enter the cylinder and cause serious corrosion after refilling.

 

2.8.5     BREATHING AIR COMPRESSORS

The special breathing-air compressors must be maintained on board according to the maintenance manual of the manufacturer.

Use only the types of oil and grease advised by the manufacturer, that are free of additives.

 

The air intake should be protected by a filter and positioned on a spot where clean air is available.

 

When in doubt about the quality of the breathing air, check the filter. If replacement of the filter does not improve the quality of the air, ask Feederlines to have the compressor checked/overhauled by a representative of the manufacturer. 

 

The breathing air produced by the compressor can be contaminated by :

- pollutants sucked in through the air intake

- moisture or oil, because the active carbon filter is saturated or the pistonrings are worn

- carbondioxide originating from combustion of oil particles

- carbonmonoxide, same cause

 

All maintenance work, tests,inspections etc and its results, and the fillingdates of cylinders, are to be entered in the Safety Manual.

 

NOTE : IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

 

All work on the special breathing-air compressor  must be carried out with caution. In particular the removing and fitting of the filter must be done with the utmost care. On a Dutch ship the cover of the filterhousing was blown off when the compressor was started after maintenance work, thereby severely damaging the ceiling of the room.    

 

SO :

NEVER BEND OVER A WORKING COMPRESSOR

USE HEARING- and FACE PROTECTION WHEN NEAR WORKING COMPRESSORS

CLEARLY SEPARATE THE FULL AND EMPTY CYLINDERS

2.9     RESUSCITATION GEAR

2.9.1     GENERAL

 

Usually medicinal oxygen apparatuses are used for this purpose. They should not be used in places where an oxygen enriched atmosphere could be dangerous.

Resuscitation gear is required on board by the medical first-aid part of the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code.

There are two types, with or without an automatic resuscitation control, also called pulsemotor or pulsgenerator.

 

The apparatuses without automatic control give a constant flow (that can be regulated), through or not through a breathing bag or balloon. Also a separate resuscitating balloon is supplied. This balloon functions like an automatic control, but has to be operated by hand.

The oxygen is stored in the breathing bag/balloon during the period that the patient does not breathe and acts as a buffer that makes it possible to increase the percentage of oxygen in the breathing air being administered.

 

NOTE:  It should be realised, that when the percentage of oxygen in the breathing air is increased, the percentage of carbon-dioxide in the blood is decreased, which diminishes the normal breathing stimulation of the body.

    

THEREFOR NEVER LEAVE A PATIENT BEING RESUSCITADED ALONE AND MONITOR BREATHING AND PULSE . A VICTIM WHO DOES NOT BREATHE AND/OR HAS NO HEARTBEAT SHOULD BE REANIMATED FIRST !

 

2.9.2     INSPECTIONS AND MAINTENANCE

 

Apart from the instructions given by the manufacturer in the manual, the following must be done:

 

Check the apparatus monthly on :

- pressure in the medicinal oxygen cylinders

- leakage of valves/connections/couplings (use soapsuds)

- proper functionning of breathing valves and automatic resuscitation controls and the

  general functioning of the whole apparatus by operating it for a short period of time.

 

Keep the apparatus clean. NEVER grease or oil valves or other moving parts (oil/grease + oxygen = spontaneous combustion!) Keep the valves of empty cylinders closed. Also medicinal oxygen cylinders have to be pressuretested every 5 years.

 

For expert maintenance of automatics, breathing valves, breathing bag, manometre etc. The gear is to be overhauled by a representative of the manufacturer every 2 1/2 years.

 

All maintenance work, tests,inspections etc and its results, and the refillingdates of cylinders, are to be entered in the Safety Manual.

2.10     CO2  FIRE-EXTINGUISHING SYSTEM

2.10.1       RESPONSIBILITIES

 

The chief engineer is responsible for the maintenance of the CO2 fire-extinguishing system and the CO2 room. The chief officer is responsible for the regular inspections and tests of the system, that must be entered in this book and the ship's logbook.

 

Weekly tests

 

The audible alarms in the engineroom and other spaces protected by the system shall be tested every week. Everybody working regularly in these spaces should be instructed to leave the space AT ONCE when this alarm sounds!!!!!

 

When the CO2 system incorporates a smokedetector using the CO2 lines to suck out air from the protected spaces, this system is to be tested weekly. The lines must be blown through every year, or each time after discharging when cargo producing dust (e.g. grain) has been carried.  

 

2.10.2     ANNUAL TEST

 

It is required that the system will be tested anually by the ship's staff according to the manual of the manufacturer. Note the word "tested" and the date on a label near the controls.

 

The annual test must comprise:

1. external inspection of the whole system

2. the lines blown through with working air of at least 6 bar

3. test of the alarmsystem

4. check of the contents of the pilotcylinders (right presure or weight as indicated

on the it, allowed maximum reduction of weight 5%, of pressure 10%)

5. check of the isolating valves (control and closing)

6. check of the pneumatically operated release system as described in the manual

(first unhook the activating wires to avoid Co2 release and blocking the bottles)

7. final check that the system is fully operational

8. annual inspection entered in the Safety Manual and the ship's logbook.

 

Every two years an authorized expert must check the contents of all cylinders (incl. those of the scavenging air space and boilers) and inspect the whole system. Allowed maximum reduction of weight of each cylinder 5%. They issue a service certificate.

 

Every five  years (during special survey) a thorough examination of the entire system is to be carried out by an authorized expert and 5% of the cylinders presuretested and inspected. The testmark and date are punched in.

2.11     FOAM FIRE-EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS

2.11.1     SYSTEMS WITH UNDILLUTED FOAM FORMING LIQUID

Also called foam dosage systems. The foam forming liquid (FFL) is stored in a tank without any additive. There are two different ways of mixing the liquid with water.

 

1. The mainfirepump pumps water and a foampump pumps FFL to a mixer, where it is mixed in the

   right proportion and from there led to fixed or portable foamsprayers, where foam is

   generated by sucking in air.

2. Water from the fireline is led through an ejector, that sucks FFL from a container, to a

   portable foam sprayer that sucks in air to generate foam. 

 

2.11.2     SYSTEMS WITH PREMIXED FOAM

 

Also called foam pressure systems. Freshwater mixed with FFL is stored in a tank. When the mixture is put under pressure by CO2 or N2 the liquid flows to fixed discharge outlets, or fixed or portable foamsprayers, where air is sucked in to generate foam.

 

2.11.3     TESTING SYSTEMS

 

An appropriate testing system must be provided.

 

The systems, including portable foam extinguishing systems, are to be tested regularly according to the manual of the manufacturer:

 

- check that the system is fully operational

- check the quantity of the foam forming liquid

- check the foam generator, the FFL pump, the mixer

- check the seawaterpump

- check and clean the filters

- check and test foamsprayers and valves, remote controls, and automatic and manual controls

- test the pressure safety valves of the storage tank (pressures systems only)

- check the lines (corrosion) and the flow of the liquid(s)

- check the quality of the FFL ( see below)

- in drydock the lines are pressuretested with workingpressure plus 3 kg/sqcm

 

During surveys the above tests are carried out under the supervision of a class surveyor.

 

2.11.4     TESTING OF THE FOAM FORMING LIQUID

 

The testing procedure requires two tests, a spraying test and a shaking test.

 

The spraying test:

A portable fire extinguisher of say 6 liters is filled with a mixture of water and FFL in the right proportion according to the foamspecifications (so a 3% mixture for 3% FFL etc).  A CO2 cartridge is put in the extinguisher and it is emptied. The foam should have "body" and not collapse to quickly.

 

Instead of this test the whole system can actually be operated, but this wastes more FFL. After testing the system is to be thorougly flushed with water to remove all traces of FFL.

 

The shaking test:

to check whether the FFL makes adequate foam.

- put 10 cc of FFL in a 100cc measuring-glass

- add freshwater upto 100 cc

- put 30 cc of this mixture in a 500 cc measure or bottle that  can be closed

- shake vigorously for 5 seconds (approx. 20 to 25 shaking movements)

- the volume of the foam should be 200 cc

 

 

2.12     AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEMS

The system is to be tested regularly :

- the function of the automatic alarm of each section  of sprinklers by means of the

  testvalve near the stopvalve that discharges the same quantity of water as one sprinkler

- the automatic operation of the pump on reduction of pressure in the system

- the audible and visible alarms and indicators for each section of sprinklers by using the

  testswitches

Ships fitted with this system must incorporate in this Safety Manual the required maintenance procedures and tests as laid down in the manufacturer's manuals.

 

2.13     FIRE DETECTION AND FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS

2.13.1       GENERAL

 

Check every week whether the fire detection and fire alarmsystems are in good working order and fully operational.

 

Ships fitted with automatic temperature monitors or fire detectors with radio-active heads should follow the instructions of the manufacture's manuals for this type of equipment.

 

2.13.2       RADIO-ACTIVE FIRE/SMOKE DETECTORS

 

1. The radio-active smokedetector

 

- the outside of the smokedetector should show the warning label for radioactivity (NEN 3011)

  and a serialnumber

- the detector may only be used when detection of smoke is reported to a constantly manned

  station or is connected to the general alarmsystem of the ship

- except during the necessary testing, the sensitivity of the detector may not be reduced,

  unless required for proper functioning of the system

- the detector may only be fitted, removed or repaired:

=  at sea : by an assigned crewmember, conform to the instructions of the

manufacturer's manual

=   during drydocking: by a representative of the manufacturer (all activities to be

recorded in the special register)

- the spare detectors should be kept in a special box, made of steel and properly locked,

  showing the warning label for radio-activity.

 

 

2. Registration

 

The master of the ship must keep with the ship's papers:

 

- a plan to scale, showing the exact location of each detector and its serialnumber     

- a control register, showing for each detector:

      = its serialnumber

      = the date of checks on good working order

      = the date of fitting/removing it

      = radio-active nuclide and activity of it

      = a control register with details of the spare detectors in the special box

 

The master must enter in these registers all mutations of the detectors.

 

 

3. Tests and checks

 

Checks should be made to ascertain the the system is in good working order and fully operational:

 

at sea at least every 12 months, conform to the instructions of the manufacturer

during drydocking by a representative of the manufacturer

 

These checks are to be entered in the special register.

 

2.13.3       REQUIRED TESTS AND INSPECTIONS OF THE SYSTEM

 

Check every week whether the fire detecting/fire alarm system is in good working order and fully operational.

Test every 4 months one third of the detectors of each group of the fire detection system. Test different detectors each time, this way all will be tested within a period of one year. These tests should also be entered in the special register (including serial numbers).

 

Midway between special surveys, so approximately every 2 1/2 to 3 years, the whole fire detection system, including its alarms, is to be inspected by a representative of the manufacturer. He must enter this inspection in the register

 

Of course the ship enters all checks,tests and inspections also in the Safety Manual and the ship's logbook.

2.14     SMOKE DETECTION SYSTEMS

 

The CO2 lines that are used for smoke detection are to be blown through at least once every year with working air and than tested with smoke. When carrying cargo causing clouds of dust this has to be done after each discharge.

 

Drainplugs in the lines must be opened regularly to drain condensation. Automatic drains are to be tested when blowing through the lines with air.

3.1     COMMUNICATION

 

The following equipment must be on board of all passengerships and of cargoships of 500 tons or more :

 

- 3 VHF GMDSS approved handsets 

Sets to be kept fully operational and in good working order, to be tested every week and

the batteries to be loaded regularly. Every year, during the annual survey radiostation,

the batteries should be tested by a radiocompany and replaced when necessary.

 

- at least 1 radartransponder (SART) on each side of the ship, stowed in such a way that

they can be rapidly placed in any survival craft.

Every week the SART's are to be visualy inspected, and when possible,their batteries tested

every month.

During the annual survey radiostation they are to be inspected and tested by an authorised

radiocompany and have their batteries replaced when necessary.

 

- on or near the bridge at least 12 rocket parachute flares (see "Safety equipment", chapter

4)

 

- 1 Satellite emergency position-indicating radio beacon (EPIRB) (see "Safety radio

equipment", chapter 4)

 

3.2     PERSONAL LIFE-SAVING APPLIANCES

3.2.1     LIFEBUOYS

 

Lifebuoys shall be:

 

- of a well visible colour: painted orange

- marked in block capitals with the name and port of registry of the ship

- fitted with four retro-reflective bands

- inspected once every month

- weight at least 2 kg

 

During this inspection, check whether:

 

- the lifebuoys are in good condition, not effected by for instance sunlight, oil or

  chemicals, and the colour is still bright

- name and port are clearly readable and the letters still fixed

- the retro-reflective material is intact

- it is so stowed, including the MOB- or other self-igniting lights, as to be capable of

  being rapidly cast loose and not secured by paint or otherwise

- the grablines are in good condition

- the self-igniting lights are intact and the MOB-lights intact and not expired

 

Check self-igniting lights:

 

- turn electric lights and MOB- lights upside down, the mercury-switch now turns the light on

- weight lifebuoy at least 4 kg

- shake the holmes-lights, the lumps of carbide in the tin should rattle

- new lights after transportation, screw tight and/or remove isolation between light for

  transport use

 

3.2.2     LIFE-JACKETS

 

Life-jackets shall be:

 

- inspected once every month

=  this can be done during the monthly boatdrill

=   repair or replace faulty jackets at once.

=   check the stitching of seams in particular

- fitted with a light

- fitted with a whistle

- fitted with retro-reflective material  

- available for persons at watch

- so placed as to be readily accessable

 

The stowage position of life-jackets shall be plainly indicated.

 

On central stowage positions also the number of life-jackets stowed there should be indicated. The jackets stowed there, should be aired every month to prevent rot and mildew caused by moisture.

 

3.2.3     SURVIVAL SUITS AND TPA'S

 

Survival suits shall be:

 

- inspected once every month, check whether:

= it is complete and in good condition

= the zipper is well greased and moves freely

= the seams and the fabric itself are undamaged  

- be fitted with retro-reflective material

- be fitted with a light and a whistle

- be fitted with the flexible neckstring and belt for short crew members.

 

A survival suit which also complies with the requirements of lifejackets may be classified as a lifejacket. 

 

Survivalsuits should preferably be stowed hanging in a special locker. The zippers require special care and maintenance, keep them well greased with the special grease of the manufacturer. When this grease is not available, use silicone grease, paraffin wax or beewax.

 

TPA's (Thermal Protective Aids) are supplied in sealed plastic packaging and do not require any maintenance. It is recommended to show a TPA during boat drills and explain its use.

 

3.2.4     LIFEJACKET AND SURVIVAL SUIT LIGHTS

 

All lifejackets and survivalsuits shall be fitted with a light.

 

They contain either a dry battery with a switch operated by a pulling cord, or a seawater battery activated by freeing two contacts with a pulling cord and immersing it in seawater.

The light with the manually operated switch can be switched off, the other type remains activated until the seawaterbattery is flat.

 

3.3     Instructions, recommendations,

              drills and training

 

3.3.1     ALARM MUSTERLIST AND EMERGENCY INSTRUCTIONS

 

Alarm muster lists are exhibited in conspicuous places (see safety plan) throughout the ship, including the bridge, the engine (control)room and the accommodation.   

 

3.3.2     OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

 

On or in the vicinity of survival craft and their launching controls posters or signs shall be provided, that:

 

- illustrate the purpose of controls and the procedures for operating the appliance and give

  relevant instructions or warnings in english language

- can be easily seen under emergency lighting conditions

- use symbols in accordance with Int. Reg.

 

The operating instructions mustbe clearly readable and be replaced when affected by the weather.

 

3.3.3     SOLAS TRAINING MANUALS

 

There shall be two copies on board. One in the messroom and one on the bridge and it should be studied by all crew members, in particular the officers.

 

The  Solas training manual contains instructions and information on the lifesaving appliances of the ship and on the best methods of survival.

Any part of this information may also be provided in the form of audio-vidual aids (video cassettes).

 

The training manual must be kept up-to-date, and corrected when changes take place in the appliances on board or in the emergency instructions.

 

3.3.4     ABANDON SHIP - PRACTICE MUSTERS AND DRILLS

 

Each member of the crew shall participate in at least one abandon ship boatdrill and one fire drill every month.

Each "abandon ship" boatdrill shall include :

- checking the personal duties

- summoning of crew (and passengers) to musterstations with the specific abandon ship signal

  on the general alarm system, ensuring that they recognise the various signals

- reporting to stations and preparing for the duties described in the alarm musterlist

- checking that everybody is suitably dressed (warm clothes, headgear and shoes)

- checking that lifejackets are correctly donned

- starting and operating the lifeboat motor

- checking the emergency lighting of boatdeck and overboard

- (operation of davits for davit-launching rafts)

- instructions

 

FREEFALL BOAT

 

- at least 3 minutes in the water

- fixed places in the boat, measure the safety belts

- One person (not the captain) in charge (and a successor)

3.3.5     ABANDON SHIP - ON-BOARD TRAINING AND INSTRUCTIONS

On-board training in the use of the ship's lifesaving appliances shall be given as soon as possible, but not later than 2 weeks after a crewmember joins the ship.

 

Instructions in the use of the lifesaving appliances and in survival at sea must be given at the same interval as the  abandon ship drills and fire drills.

 

Each member of the crew shall be given instructions which at least include:

- operation and use of the ship's inflatable liferafts

- problems of hypothermia, first-aid treatment of hypothermia, and other appropriate first-

  aid procedures

- the use of the ship's lifesaving appliances in severe weather and high seas

These instructions can be given during boatdrills, using the Safety training manual, the book "Schip verlaten" or video cassettes .

 

3.3.6     ABANDON SHIP - ON-BOARD TRAINING IN THE USE OF DAVIT-   

LAUNCHED LIFERAFTS

 

On every ship fitted with davit-launched rafts, on-board training in their use shall be given at intervals of not more than 4 months. The training should include instructions for operation of the davits and the rafts and whenever practicable include the inflation and lowering of a raft.

 

At intervals of not more than 12 months this inflation and lowering must take place with the assigned crew of the liferaft. This raft may be a special training-raft which is no part of the ship's lifesaving equipment and conspicuously marked as such.       

In practice, this is usually done during or shortly before the annual overhaul of the liferafts with a special training-raft supplied by the manufacturer, or with a ship's raft due for overhaul. The latter should be avoided when possible, to prevent damage to the ship's rafts during transportation.

 

Every month during boatdrill the assigned crewmembers have to operate the davits.

On a ship of another company, an accident occurred when the crew lowered a liferaft with its full complement and the lifting hook unhooked, causing the raft to fall into the sea.

Therefor boarding excercises must only take place in port with the raft properly secured alongside the boarding deck. When the lifraft is lowered it should be unmanned. These excercises must not be held when the windforce is more than 3 Beaufort.

 

3.5     LIFEBOATS AND (MOB) RESCUE BOATS

3.5.1     GENERAL

 

A lifeboat may be accepted as a rescueboat provided it also complies with the requirements for a rescueboat.

 

Inflated rescueboats shall be maintained at all times in a fully inflated condition. Use only the bellow provided by the manufacturer to inflate the boat or top it up!!!!

 

All repair and maintenance of inflated rescueboats shall be carried out in accordance with the manufacturers instructions. Emergency repairs may be carried out on board, but permannent repairs and periodical surveys are to be carried out by an approved servicing station.

 

3.5.2     LAUNCHING

 

Every month at least one lifeboat shall be lowered into the water at the abandon ship lifeboat drill. Different lifeboats shall be lowered at successive drills.

 

Each lifeboat shall be launched with it assigned operating crew aboard and manoeuvred in the water at least every 3 months during an abandon ship lifeboat drill.

 

As far is reasonable and practicable, rescueboats other than lifeboats which are also rescue boats, shall be launched each month with their assigned crew on board and manoeuvred in the water. In any case this must be done at least once every 3 months. 

 

When lowering the lifeboats check:

 

- plugs and spare plugs available

- condition of runners

- release mechanism in good working order

- condition ofgrablines/painters/towing hawser/manropes/ladders

- condition of rudder

- condition of oars (and mast/yard/sails when still applicable)

- watertightness

- winch, centrifugal winchbrake and its remote control

- limit-switches in good working condition

- condition of lashings

- all moving parts free, grease nipples/lubricating points clean

- engine starts and runs well

 

When lowering the boats all moving parts should be greased.

 

3.5.3     LIFEBOAT PROPULSION

 

Sufficient fuel, suitable for the use throughout the temperature range expected in the operating area of the ship, shall be provided to run the fully loaded lifebaot at 6 knots for a period of no less than 24 hours

 

Engines shall be run ahead and astern for a total period of no less than 3 minutes. Be carefull and use your common sense when testing, do not damage the motor by overheating because of insufficient cooling or by causing excessive vibrations.

 

3.5.4     RESCUEBOAT PROPULSION

 

Special rescueboats (rigid, inflated or combination), that are not also lifeboats, may be fitted with an approved petroldriven outboard motor, provided the fueltanks are specially protected against fire and explosion. This motor may also incorporate rudder and tiller.

 

These boats should be able to manoeuver at speeds up to 6 knots and maintaining this speed for a period of at least 4 hours. 

They must have sufficient mobility and manoeuvrability in a seaway to enable persons to be retrievd from the water and marshal and tow the largest liferaft on board fully loaded

 

3.5.5     INSPECTION OF ADDITIONAL BUOYANT MATERIAL  

 

Every year the additional buoyancy material of every lifeboat (in particular airtanks, but also onazote, polyester, etc.) are to be visually inspected. Gratings, floorboards and covers are to be removed for this inspection where possible. Check the tanks on corrosion, damage, leaks, etc. and repair where necessary. Check whether the foam is intact and not saturated with water.

 

3.5.6     5-YEARLY SURVEY OF LIFEBOATS AND RESCUE BOATS

 

To comply with the int. requirements, the lifesaving appliances are to be surveyed during special survey. Their survey will comprise :

 

1. condition of the hull

- thorough internal and external inspection of the hull, with the boat skates removed. Check

  GRP (polyester) boats on cracks and tears.

- inspection of the handholds on the underside of the hull

- inspection of all fittings (crutches, clamps, rudder pintles, stiffeners, fittings of the

  canopy etc., fastenings and padeyes of the lashings)

- inspection of all woodwork, thwarts etc.

2. condition of the rudder and tiller

- inspection and test

3. condition of the propulsion

- inspection and test of motor and reversing gear

- inspection of motor fundation and bolts

- inspection of propeller shafting

- test of the complete propulsion unit

4. condition of the on-load release mechanism,

  (to be overhauled every 5 year)

- inspection and test

5. condition of the hoisting gear

 (to be overhauled every 5 years; repaired parts to be tested at a proofload of 2.5 times the

  working load)

- inspection of hoisting hooks and their fastenings, including the fastening bolts

- inspection of the keel and the points of suspension on the keel, including the fastening

  bolts of the hoisting eyes

- test

6. condition of tanks and containers

- removal and testing/inspection of airtanks or other additional buoyant material. Airtanks

  to be tested by submersion. When a tank is leaky, the water is to be drained by drilling

  holes in it. When foampackets are saturated with water, they are to be replaced or dried.

7. condition of the rigid covers, the canopy and its supports

8. condition of the sprinkler system and the self-contained air support system

  (compressed-air cylinders to be pressure tested every 5 years   at 1.5 times the working 

   pressure)

- inspect and test

9. inspection of all lashings and davit span wires with life-lines

10. inspection of all ropes, in particular the beckets (grablines)

 

3.5.7     INSPECTION OF EQUIPMENT

 

Inspection of the lifeboat and rescueboat equipment shall be carried out monthly using the checklists provided in paragraphs 3.5.14 and 3.5.15. Shortages and deficiencies must be remedied immediately.    

 

Air all equipment made of canvas (covers, sea-anchors etc) and renew the drinking water (in tanks) of the lifeboats at least every 4 months. 

Inspect emergency food rations at least once every month and replace rations with corroded or damaged packing. Never grease or paint tins. The manufacturing date is printed on the rations, they have to be replaced after 5 years. Keep the tanks in which the rations are stowed clean, dry  and air-tight to keep the rations in the best possible condition.

 

3.5.8     LIFEBOAT FITTINGS

 

All lifeboats shall be provided with :

 

1. at least one (automatic) drainvalve provided with a cap or plug attached to the boat

   with a lanyard, a chain or other suitable means;

  (for existing boats : a drainhole with two plugs)

2. a rudder and a tiller. The rudder shall be permanently attached to the lifeboat. The 

   tiller shall be permanently installed on, or linked to, the rudderstock;     

3. except in the vicinity of the rudder and the propeller, a buoyant lifeline becketed around

   the outside of the life boat, reaching the waterline;

4. suitable handholds on the underside of the hull;

5. sufficient watertight lockers or compartments to provide for the storage of small items of

   equipment, water and provisions. Means shal be provided for the storage of collected

   rainwater.

6. a release mechanism that:

1. releases all hooks simultaneously

2. has two release capabilities:

    = "normal" , when there is no load on the hook

    = "on-load" , when there is a load on the hook

3.  = is clearly marked in a colour that contrasts with its surroundings

7. a release device to enable the foreward painter to be released when under tension

   (on older lifeboats a grommet )

8. when a portable VHF set is used with a separate antenna, arrangements for adequately 

   siting and securing of this antenna

9. skates and fenders as necessary to facilitate launching and prevent damage to the lifeboat

10. a manually controlled lamp fitted to the top of the cover

   (for at least 12 hours, visible at least for 2 miles)

11. a lamp or source of light inside the lifeboat to provide illumination for not less than 

    12 hours to enable reading of survival and equipment instructions. Oillamps are not

    permitted for this purpose.

12. effective means of bailing or be automatically self-bailing

 

3.5.9     LIFEBOAT EQUIPMENT

 

All items of lifeboat equipment, with the  exception of boathooks which shall be kept free for fending-off purposes, shall be secured within the lifeboat by lashings, storage in lockers or compartments, storage in brackets or similar mounting arrangements or other suitable means.

 

The equipment shall be secured in such a manner as not to interfere with "abandoning ship".

 

Painters, axes, crutches or pins, caps or plugs, rudder and tiller shall be attached to the lifeboat. The foreward painters to the release device (or grommet) to ensure that it can be cast loose quickly and at all times.

 

3.5.10     RESCUEBOAT EQUIPMENT

 

Rescueboats must also comply with the guidelines of paragraph 3.6.10 for securing, storing and attaching to the boat of loose equipment and the attaching of the painter.

 

The normal equipment of every rescue boat shall be as per the checklist of paragraph 3.5.15.  

 

When a lifeboat has been accepted as a rescueboat, it must  comply with the requirements for both lifeboats and rescueboats, and also carry the special equipment items required for rescueboats additional to the lifeboat equipment (see the checklists of 3.5.14 and .15).

 

For partially covered lifeboats serving as rescueboats a  davitspan wire shall be provided fitted with at least two lifelines.

 

3.5.11     LIFEBOAT MARKINGS

 

1. the dimensions of the lifeboat and the number of persons which it is permitted to accommodate shall be marked on it in clear permanent characters

 

2. the name and port of registry of the ship to which the boat belongs shall be marked om each side of the bow in block capitals

 

3. means of identifying the ship to which the lifeboat belongs and the number of the lifebaot shall be marked in such a way that they are visible from above

 

4. lifeboats shall be consecutively numbered

 

3.5.12     RESCUEBOAT MARKINGS

 

Rescue boats shall be marked the same way as as lifeboats.

 

In addition ,inflated rescueboats shall also be marked with a serial number, the maker's name or trademark and the date of manufacture.

 

3.5.13     LIFEBOAT EQUIPMENT CHECKLIST

 

1. sufficient buoyant oars to make headway in calm seas. Thole pins, crutches or equivalent arrangements, attached to the boat by lanyards or chains, shall be provided for each oar.

2. two boathooks

3. one buoyant bailer and two buckets

4. one survival manual

5. a binnacle containing an efficient compass, provided with suitable means of illumination

6. one sea-anchor of adequate size fitted with a shock-resistant hawser and a tripping line which provides a good grip when wet.

7. two efficient painters of a length equal to not less than twice the distance from the stowage position of the lifeboat to the waterline in the lightest seagoing condition or 15 meters, whichever is the greater.

8. two little axes, one at each end of the lifeboat

9. watertight containers, containing a total of 3 liters of water for each person the lifeboat is permitted to accommodate

10. one rustproof dipper with lanyard

11. one rustproof graduated drinking vessel

12. a food ration totalling not less than 10,000 kJ for each person the lifeboat is permitted to accommodate; these rations shall be kept in aitight packaging and be stowed in an airtight container

13. 4 rocket parachute flares

14. 6 red handflares

15. 2 bouyant smoke signals

16. one waterproof electric torch (flashlight) suitable for Morse signalling, together with one spare set of batteries and one spare bulb in a watertight container

17. one daylight signalling mirror with instructions for its use for signalling to ships and aircraft

18. one copy of the lifesaving signals on a waterproof card or in a waterproof container

19. one whistle or equivalent sound signal

20. one waterproof case capable of being closed tightly after use, with a first-aid and a set of splints

21.six doses of anti-seasickness medicine and one seasickness bag for each person

22.one jacknife to be kept attached to the boat by a lanyard

23. three tin-openers

24. two boyuant rescue lines of at least 30m length, each with a buoyant rescue quoit

25. a munual pump

26. one set of fishing tackle

27. sufficient tools for minor adjustments to the engine and its accessories 

28. a portable fire extinguisher suitable for extinguishing oil fires

29. a searchlight capable of effectively illuminating a light-coloured object at night having a width of 18 m at a distance of 180 m for a total period of 6 hours and of working not less than 3 hours continuously.

30. an efficient radar reflector, unless the lifeboat is equipped with a radar responder (SART)

31. two thermal protective aids (TPA's) or sufficient for 10% of the number of persons the lifeboat is permitted to accommodate, whichever is the greatest.

 

3.5.14     RESCUE BOAT EQUIPMENT CHECKLIST

 

1. sufficient buoyant oars to make headway in calm seas. Thole pins, crutches or equivalent arrangements, attached to the boat by lanyards or chains, shall be provided for each oar.

2. one buoyant bailer

3. a binnacle containing an efficient compass, provided with suitable means of illumination     

4. one sea-anchor of adequate size fitted with a shock-resistant hawser not less than 10 m in length and a tripping line which provides a good grip when wet.

5. one painter of sufficient length and strength, attached to the release device at the forward end of the rescue boat

6. one buoyant line, not less than 50 m in length, of sufficient strength to tow a liferaft

7. one waterproof electric torch (flashlight) suitable for Morse signalling, together with one spare set of batteries and one spare bulb in a watertight container

8. one whistle or equivalent sound signal

9. one waterproof case capable of being closed tightly after use, with a first-aid outfit and a set of splints

10.two boyuant rescue lines of at least 30m length, each with a buoyant rescue quoit

11.a searchlight capable of effectively illuminating a light-coloured object at night having a width of 18 m at a distance of 180 m for a total period of 6 hours and of working not less than 3 hours continuously.  

12. an efficient radar reflector

13. thermal protective aids (TPA's) sufficient for 10% of the number of persons the rescueboat is permitted to accommodate, or two, whichever is the greatest.

14.adequate means to enable persons to board the rescueboat from the sea

15. sufficient tools for minor adjustments to the engine and its accessories 

16. a portable fire extinguisher suitable for extinguishing oil fires

 

Every rigid rescue boat shall carry additional to the above:

 

- a boathook

- a bucket

- a knife or small axe

 

Every inflated rescueboat shall carry additional to the above:

 

- a buoyant safety knive

- two sponges

- an efficient manually operated bellow or pump

- a repairkit in a suitable container for repairing punctures 

- a safety boat-hook

 

 

 

3.6     LIFERAFTS

3.6.1     INFLATABLE LIFERAFTS AND HYDROSTATIC RELEASE UNITS

 

Inflatable liferafts and hydrostatic release units shall be serviced and overhauled at intervals not exceeding 12 months by an approved service station. Also the equipment is checked and renewed when necessary.

Inspect and overhaul or paint also the clamps, lashings, shackles etc.

NOTE: Never paint the hydrostatic release units !

 

3.6.2     DAVIT-LAUNCHED INFLATABLE LIFERAFTS

 

See for on-board training and exercises with davits and rafts 3.3.6

 

4.1    PYROTECHNICAL EMERGENCY SIGNALS

Pyrotechnical emergency signals, which also include the MOB lights on the bridge, the holmes lights and the rockets or other projectiles for the line-throwing apparatus, are valid for 4 years after the manufacturing expiry date.

They should be replaced when this period expires

 

Pyrotechnical signals must NOT be fired "for testing". Expired or rejected signals should be returned to the supplier.

 

4.2     RADIO SAFETY EQUIPMENT

 

(see also chapter 3, section 1 "COMMUNICATION")

 

 

4.2.1 Satellite EPIRB's

 

All ships shall be fitted with an satellite emergency position-indicating radio beacon that:

 

1. can send emergency messages

 

2. is fitted in a easily accessable place where it can be easily removed and placed in the

   survival craft by one person

 

3. floats free when the ship sinks and will be automatically activated when it floats

 

4. can be activated by hand

 

The EPIRB's shall be inspected, tested and if necessary have their battery replaced at intervals not exceeding 12 months by an authorised radiocompany.

 

The EPIRB's must be visualy inspected every week, make sure that they can float free and when possible, test the EPIRB's every month.

 

Activating an EPIRB's starts automatically a full search and rescue operation , be careful not to activate it by accident or mistake and do not activate the EPIRB's for testing purposes!!!!

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