1 A cargo oil tank of less than 35 m length without
a swash bulkhead requires only one access hatch.
2 Where rafting is indicated in the ship structures
access manual as the means to gain ready access to the under-deck
structure, the term "similar obstructions" referred to
in the regulation includes internal structures (e.g. webs >1.5 m deep)
which restrict the ability to raft (at the maximum water level needed
for rafting of under-deck structure) directly to the nearest access
ladder and hatchway to deck. When rafts or boats alone, as an alternative
means of access, are allowed under the conditions specified in the ESP Code (resolution
A.1049(27)), permanent means of access are to be provided to
allow safe entry and exit. This means:
-
.1 access direct from the deck via a vertical
ladder and small platform fitted approximately 2 m below the deck
in each bay; or
-
.2 access to the deck from a longitudinal permanent
platform having ladders to the deck in each end of the tank. The platform
should, for the full length of the tank, be arranged in level with,
or above, the maximum water level needed for rafting of the under-deck
structure. For this purpose, the ullage corresponding to the maximum
water level is to be assumed not more than 3 m from the deck plate
measured at the midspan of deck transverses and in the middle length
of the tank (see figure below). A permanent means of access from the
longitudinal permanent platform to the water level indicated above
should be fitted in each bay (e.g. permanent rungs on one of the deck
webs inboard of the longitudinal permanent platform).