3.0 Fuel Pumping and Storage Tank Filling

  3.1 All tank outlet valves and filling valves should be mounted directly onto the tank and be capable of being closed from a remote location outside the compartment in the event of a fire in the compartment. Ball valves are to be of the stainless steel, anti-static, fire tested type.

  3.1.1 If more than one storage tank is fitted then fuel should be pumped through suitable filtration if it is to be transferred from one tank to another.

  3.2 Filling arrangements for fuel tanks should be through closed piping systems with outlet ends configured to reduce turbulence and foaming of the fuel. If the storage tank(s) are filled from the top, the filler pipe should pass through the tank to the bottom and terminate with a 90 degree bend so that fuel flows over the bottom of the tank to reduce the possibility of a build-up of static charge.

  3.3 Pumping units should be easily accessible and capable of being controlled from both the fuel station and a position remote from the fuel station. The device to prevent over-pressurisation as required by SOLAS 2-II should be fitted with a relief valve to discharge either to the suction side of the pump(s) or to a holding tank complying with the arrangements of this section of Annex 6 of the Code.

  3.4 When not in use, fuel filling equipment should be stowed in a locker that is well ventilated and drained.

  3.5 Suitable filtration arrangements in accordance with appropriate American Petrolium Industry (API) and British Energy Institute (or equivalent) standards should be provided to reduce the level of water and particulate contamination of the fuel to within the limits specified by the helicopter manufacturer. The minimum requirements are; delivery into storage through a filter water seperator(FWS), filtration out of storage through filter water seperator (FWS), filtration at the point of filling (e.g. on the helicopter landing area), via a filter monitor (FM). Filter vessels should be fitted with a differential pressure guage and automatic air eliminator.

  3.6 In general, all piping systems should be located clear of accommodation spaces, escape routes, embarkation stations and ventilation openings and should not pass through category A machinery spaces. However, where arrangements are such that piping has to pass through accommodation spaces, service spaces, escape routes, or embarkation stations double skinned piping is to be used or pipes should be enclosed in a cofferdam.

  3.7 Means should be provided for keeping deck spills away from accommodation and service areas.

  3.8 Drip trays for collecting replenishment oil residues in pipelines and hoses should be provided beneath pipe and hose connections in the manifold area.

  3.9 It is recommended that a "Y" strainer should be fitted on the pump suction to protect the pump itself.