Regulation 14 - Freeing ports
Clasification Society 2024 - Version 9.40
Statutory Documents - IMO Publications and Documents - International Conventions - SFV - International Convention for the Safety of Fishing Vessels (The Torremolinos Convention)Regulations for the Construction and Equipment of Fishing Vessels - Chapter II - Construction, Watertight Integrity and Equipment - Regulation 14 - Freeing ports

Regulation 14 - Freeing ports

  (1) Where bulwarks on weather parts of the working deck form wells, the minimum freeing port area (A) in square metres on each side of the vessel for each well on the working deck shall be determined in relation to the length (I) and height of bulwark in the well as follows:

  • (a) A = 0.07l

    (l need not be taken as greater than 0.7L).

  • (b)

    • (i) Where the bulwark is more than 1,200 mm in average height the required area shall be increased by 0.004 m2 per metre of length of well for each 100 mm difference in height.

    • (ii) Where the bulwark is less than 900 mm in average height, the required area may be decreased by 0.004 m2 per metre of length of well for each 100 mm difference in height.

  (2) The freeing port area calculated according to paragraph (1) shall be increased where the Administration considers that the vessel's sheer is not sufficient to ensure that the deck is rapidly and effectively freed of water.

  (3) Subject to the approval of the Administration the minimum freeing port area for each well on the superstructure deck shall be not less than one half the area (A) given in paragraph (1).

  (4) Freeing ports shall be so arranged along the length of bulwarks as to ensure that the deck is freed of water most rapidly and effectively. Lower edges of freeing ports shall be as near the deck as practicable.

  (5) Poundboards and means for stowage of the fishing gear shall be arranged so that the effectiveness of freeing ports will not be impaired. Poundboards shall be so constructed that they can be locked in position when in use and shall not hamper the discharge of shipped water.

  (6) Freeing ports over 300 mm in depth shall be fitted with bars spaced not more than 230 mm nor less than 150 mm apart or provided with other suitable protective arrangements. Freeing port covers, if fitted, shall be of approved construction. If devices are considered necessary for locking freeing port covers during fishing operations they shall be to the satisfaction of the Administration and easily operable from a readily accessible position.

  (7) In vessels intended to operate in areas subject to icing, covers and protective arrangements for freeing ports shall be capable of being easily removed to restrict ice accretion. The size of openings and means provided for removal of these protective arrangements shall be to the satisfaction of the Administration.

Parent topic: Chapter II - Construction, Watertight Integrity and Equipment
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