Section 3 Emergency source of electrical power
Clasification Society 2024 - Version 9.40
Clasifications Register Rules and Regulations - Rules and Regulations for the Classification of Special Service Craft, July 2022 - Part 16 Control and Electrical Engineering - Chapter 2 Electrical Engineering - Section 3 Emergency source of electrical power

Section 3 Emergency source of electrical power

Parent topic: Chapter 2 Electrical Engineering

3.1 General

3.1.1 The requirements of this Section apply to passenger craft, to yachts that are 500 gt or more, to cargo craft, patrol and pilot craft, workboats and other similar craft of 500 tons gross tonnage and above, and to cargo craft, patrol and pilot craft, workboats and other similar craft of less than 500 tons gross tonnage for operation in Service Groups 4 and 5. For other craft, see Pt 16, Ch 2, 20 Cargo craft, patrol and pilot craft, workboats and other similar craft of less than 500 tons gross tonnage for operation in Service Groups 1 to 3, and yachts less than 500 gt.

3.1.2 Passenger craft and cargo craft constructed in compliance with the HSC Code are to comply with Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.3 Emergency source of electrical power in craft required to comply with the HSC Code. Other specified craft are to comply with Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.2 Emergency source of electrical power in passenger craft and for yachts that are 500 gt or more or Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.4 Emergency source of electrical power in cargo craft, patrol and pilot craft, workboats and other similar craft of 500 tons gross tonnage and above; and cargo craft, patrol and pilot craft, workboats and other similar craft less than 500 tons gross tonnage as applicable.

3.1.3 The emergency source of power for other craft will be the subject of special consideration, with due regard to the size and the intended service of the craft.

3.1.4 Where the main source of electrical power is located in two or more compartments which are not contiguous, each of which has its own self-contained systems, including power distribution and control systems, completely independent of each other and such that a fire or other casualty in any one of the spaces will not affect the power distribution from the others, or to the services required by Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.2 Emergency source of electrical power in passenger craft and for yachts that are 500 gt or more, Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.3 Emergency source of electrical power in craft required to comply with the HSC Code or Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.4 Emergency source of electrical power in cargo craft, patrol and pilot craft, workboats and other similar craft of 500 tons gross tonnage and above; and cargo craft, patrol and pilot craft, workboats and other similar craft less than 500 tons gross tonnage, the requirements of this Section may be considered satisfied without an additional emergency source of electrical power, provided that:

  1. there is at least one generating set of sufficient capacity to meet the requirements of Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.2 Emergency source of electrical power in passenger craft and for yachts that are 500 gt or more,Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.3 Emergency source of electrical power in craft required to comply with the HSC Code or Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.4 Emergency source of electrical power in cargo craft, patrol and pilot craft, workboats and other similar craft of 500 tons gross tonnage and above; and cargo craft, patrol and pilot craft, workboats and other similar craft less than 500 tons gross tonnage in each of at least two non-contiguous spaces;

  2. the generator sets referred to in Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.1 General 3.1.4 and their self-contained systems are installed such that a source of electrical power remains available at all times to supply emergency services after damage or flooding in any one compartment.

3.1.5 Non-passenger type craft of 300 tons gross tonnage and above are to comply with Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.6 Prime mover governor.

3.2 Emergency source of electrical power in passenger craft and for yachts that are 500 gt or more

3.2.1 A self-contained emergency source of electrical power is to be provided.

3.2.2 The emergency source of electrical power, associated transforming equipment, if any, transitional source of emergency power, emergency switchboard and emergency lighting switchboard are to be located above the waterline in the final condition of damage, be operable in that condition, and be readily accessible from the open deck. They are not to be located forward of the collision bulkhead, if fitted. Consideration may also be given to alternative arrangements, such as Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.1 General 3.1.4, which provide an equivalent degree of safety from fire and flooding.

3.2.3 The location of:

  • the emergency source of electrical power and associated transforming equipment, if any;
  • the transitional source of emergency power;
  • the emergency switchboard; and

in relation to:

  • the emergency lighting switchboard; in relation to:
  • the main source of electrical power, associated transforming equipment, if any; and
  • the main switchboard;

is to be such as to ensure that a fire or other casualty in spaces containing:

  • the main source of electrical power, associated transforming equipment, if any, and the main switchboard; or
  • in any machinery space of Category A;

will not interfere with the supply, control and distribution of emergency electrical power.

3.2.4 The space containing:

  • the emergency source of electrical power, associated transforming equipment, if any;
  • the transitional source of emergency electrical power; and
  • the emergency switchboard;

is not to be contiguous to the boundaries of machinery spaces of Category A or those spaces containing:

  • the main source of electrical power, associated transforming equipment, if any; or
  • the main switchboard.

3.2.5 Where compliance with Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.2 Emergency source of electrical power in passenger craft and for yachts that are 500 gt or more 3.2.3 or Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.2 Emergency source of electrical power in passenger craft and for yachts that are 500 gt or more 3.2.4 is not practicable, details of the proposed arrangements are to be submitted.

3.2.6 Provided that suitable measures are taken for safeguarding independent emergency operation under all circumstances, the emergency generator may be used exceptionally, and for short periods, to supply non-emergency circuits. Failure of the emergency switchboard when being used in other than an emergency is not to put at risk the operation of the craft or yacht.

3.2.7 The electrical power available is to be sufficient to supply all those services that are essential for safety in an emergency, due regard being paid to such services as may have to be operated simultaneously. The emergency source of electrical power is to be capable, having regard to starting currents and the transitory nature of certain loads, of supplying simultaneously at least the following services for the periods specified hereinafter, if they depend upon an electrical source for their operation:

  1. for a period of 36 hours, emergency lighting:

    1. at every lifeboat or liferaft preparation station, muster and embarkation station and oversides;

    2. in alleyways, stairways and exits, giving access to the muster and embarkation stations;

    3. in all service and accommodation alleyways, stairways and exits and personal lift cars;

    4. in the machinery spaces, and main generating stations including their control positions;

    5. in all control stations, machinery control rooms, and at each main and emergency switchboard;

    6. at the stowage positions for firemen's outfits and life saving appliances;

    7. at the steering gear; and

    8. at the fire pump, the sprinkler pump and the emergency bilge pump and at the starting position of their motors.

  2. for a period of 36 hours:

    1. the navigation lights, and other lights as required by the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea in force; and

    2. the radiocommunications, as required by statutory regulations.

  3. for a period of 36 hours:

    1. all internal communication equipment required in an emergency;

    2. the navigational equipment as required by statutory regulations; where such provision is unreasonable or impracticable this requirement may be waived for craft of less than 5000 tons gross;

    3. the fire detection, fire alarm and general alarm system, manual alarms, and the fire door holding and release system; and

    4. the intermittent operation of the daylight signalling lamps, the craft's whistle, the manually-operated call points and all internal signals that are required in an emergency;

    unless such services have an independent supply for the period of 36 hours from an accumulator battery, suitably located for use in an emergency;

  4. for a period of 36 hours:

    1. emergency fire pump;

    2. the automatic sprinkler pump, if fitted;

    3. the emergency bilge pump and all the equipment essential for the operation of electrically powered remote controlled bilge valves; and

    4. essential electrically powered instruments and control for propulsion machinery, if alternate sources of power are not available for such devices.

  5. for a period of 10 min, power drives for directional control devices including those required to direct thrust forward and astern, unless there is a manual alternative complying with Pt 14, Ch 1, 6.1 Control 6.1.5;

  6. for a period of half an hour;

    1. any watertight doors required by Chapter 2 to be power operated together with their control, indication and alarm signals;

    2. the emergency arrangements to bring the lift cars to deck level for the escape of persons. The passenger lift cars may be brought to deck level sequentially in an emergency;

  7. where applicable, the services required by Pt 16, Ch 2, 2.3 Starting arrangements 2.3.2 and

  8. where applicable, the air compressors for breathing apparatus cylinders referred to in Pt 16, Ch 2, 17.9 Electrically powered air compressors for breathing air cylinders 17.9.1.

3.2.8 The emergency source of electrical power may be either a generator or an accumulator battery, which is to comply with the following:

  1. Where the emergency source of electrical power is a generator it is to be:

    1. driven by a suitable prime mover with an independent supply of fuel having a flashpoint (closed cup test) of not less than 43°C;

    2. started automatically upon failure of the electrical supply from the main source of electrical power and is to be automatically connected to the emergency switchboard; those services referred to in Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.2 Emergency source of electrical power in passenger craft and for yachts that are 500 gt or more 3.2.7 are then to be transferred automatically to the emergency generating set. The automatic starting system and the characteristics of the prime mover are to be such as to permit the emergency generator to carry its full rated load as quickly as is safe and practicable, subject to a maximum of 45 seconds; and

    3. provided with a transitional source of emergency electrical power according to Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.2 Emergency source of electrical power in passenger craft and for yachts that are 500 gt or more 3.2.9.

  2. Where the emergency source of electrical power is an accumulator battery, it is to be capable of:

    1. carrying the emergency electrical load without recharging while maintaining the voltage of the battery throughout the discharge period within 12 per cent above or below its nominal voltage;

    2. automatically connecting to the emergency switchboard in the event of failure of the main source of electrical power; and

    3. immediately supplying at least those services specified in Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.2 Emergency source of electrical power in passenger craft and for yachts that are 500 gt or more 3.2.9.

3.2.9 The transitional source of emergency electrical power required by Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.2 Emergency source of electrical power in passenger craft and for yachts that are 500 gt or more 3.2.8 may consist of an accumulator battery suitably located for use in an emergency which is to operate without recharging while maintaining the voltage of the battery throughout the discharge period within 12 per cent above or below its nominal voltage and be of sufficient capacity and so arranged as to supply automatically in the event of failure of either the main or emergency source of electrical power for half an hour at least the following services, if they depend upon an electrical source for their operation:

    1. the lighting required by Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.2 Emergency source of electrical power in passenger craft and for yachts that are 500 gt or more 3.2.7 and Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.2 Emergency source of electrical power in passenger craft and for yachts that are 500 gt or more 3.2.7.(b);

    2. the services required by Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.2 Emergency source of electrical power in passenger craft and for yachts that are 500 gt or more 3.2.7, Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.2 Emergency source of electrical power in passenger craft and for yachts that are 500 gt or more 3.2.7.(c).(iii) and Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.2 Emergency source of electrical power in passenger craft and for yachts that are 500 gt or more 3.2.7.(c).(iv) unless such services have an independent supply for the period specified from an accumulator battery suitably located for use in an emergency;

  2. with respect to watertight doors:

    1. power to operate the watertight doors but not necessarily simultaneously, unless an independent temporary source of stored energy is provided. The power source should have sufficient capacity to operate each door at least three times i.e. closed-open-closed, against an adverse list of 15o;

    2. power to the control, indication and alarm circuits for the watertight doors.

3.2.10 The emergency switchboard is to be installed as near as is practicable to the emergency source of electrical power.

3.2.11 Where the emergency source of electrical power is a generator, the emergency switchboard is to be located in the same space unless the operation of the emergency switchboard would thereby be impaired.

3.2.12 No accumulator battery, fitted in accordance with this Section, unless for engine starting, is to be installed in the same space as the emergency switchboard. An indicator is to be mounted in a suitable place on the main switchboard or in the machinery control room to indicate when the batteries constituting either the emergency source of electrical power or the transitional source of emergency electrical power are being discharged, and provision is to be made to charge them in situ from a reliable on board supply.

3.2.13 The emergency switchboard is to be supplied during normal operation from the main switchboard by an interconnector feeder which is to be adequately protected at the main switchboard against overload and short circuit and which is to be disconnected automatically at the emergency switchboard upon failure of the main source of electrical power. Where the system is arranged for feedback operation, the interconnector feeder is also to be protected at the emergency switchboard at least against short circuit.

3.2.14 In order to ensure the ready availability of the emergency source of electrical power to supply circuits required to provide emergency services, arrangements are to be made, where necessary, to automatically non-emergency circuits from the emergency switchboard in the event of overloading to ensure that electrical power is available to the emergency circuits.

3.2.15 Provision is to be made for the periodic testing of the complete emergency system and is to include the testing of automatic starting arrangements.

3.2.16 In addition to the emergency lighting required by Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.2 Emergency source of electrical power in passenger craft and for yachts that are 500 gt or more 3.2.7 passenger craft with roll on roll off cargo spaces or special category spaces, are to be provided with the following:

  1. in all passenger public spaces and alleyways supplementary electric lighting that can operate for at least three hours when all other sources of electric power have failed and under any condition of heel. The illumination provided is to be such that the approach to the means of escape can be readily seen. The source of power for the supplementary lighting is to consist of accumulator batteries within the lighting units that are continuously charged where practicable, from the emergency switchboard. Consideration may be given to other means of lighting which is at least as effective. The supplementary lighting is to be such that any failure of the lamp will be immediately apparent. Any accumulator battery provided is to be replaced at intervals having regard to the specified service life in the ambient conditions that they are subject to in service.

  2. A portable rechargeable battery operated lamp is to be provided in every crew space alleyway, recreational space and every working space which is normally occupied unless supplementary emergency lighting, as required by (a) is provided.

3.2.17 A lesser period than the 36 hour period specified in Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.2 Emergency source of electrical power in passenger craft and for yachts that are 500 gt or more 3.2.7, but not less than 18 hours, may be considered for yachts of 500 gt or more when in accordance with the relevant Statutory Regulations of the National Authority of the country in which the craft is to be registered.

3.3 Emergency source of electrical power in craft required to comply with the HSC Code

3.3.1 The arrangements for the emergency source of electrical power are to satisfy the requirements of this sub- Section and, additionally, Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.2 Emergency source of electrical power in passenger craft and for yachts that are 500 gt or more 3.2.1, Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.2 Emergency source of electrical power in passenger craft and for yachts that are 500 gt or more 3.2.6, Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.2 Emergency source of electrical power in passenger craft and for yachts that are 500 gt or more 3.2.8, Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.2 Emergency source of electrical power in passenger craft and for yachts that are 500 gt or more 3.2.11 and Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.2 Emergency source of electrical power in passenger craft and for yachts that are 500 gt or more 3.2.13 to Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.2 Emergency source of electrical power in passenger craft and for yachts that are 500 gt or more 3.2.15.

3.3.2 The emergency source of electrical power, associated transforming equipment, if any, transitional source of emergency power, emergency switchboard and emergency lighting switchboard are to be located above the waterline in the final condition of damage, be operable in that condition, and be readily accessible from the open deck. They are not to be located forward of the collision bulkhead, if fitted.

3.3.3 The location of:

  • the emergency source of electrical power and associated transforming equipment, if any;
  • the transitional source of emergency power;
  • the emergency switchboard; and
  • the emergency lighting switchboard;

in relation to:

  • the main source of electrical power, associated transforming equipment, if any, and;
  • the main switchboard;

is to be such as to ensure that a fire or other casualty in spaces containing:

  • the main source of electrical power, associated transforming equipment, if any, and the main switchboard;
  • or in any machinery space;

will not interfere with the supply, control and distribution of emergency electrical power.

3.3.4 The space containing:

  • the emergency source of electrical power, associated transforming equipment, if any;
  • the transitional source of emergency electrical power; and
  • the emergency switchboard;

is not to be contiguous to the boundaries of machinery spaces and those spaces containing:

  • the main source of electrical power, associated transforming equipment, if any; or
  • the main switchboard.

3.3.5 Where compliance with Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.3 Emergency source of electrical power in craft required to comply with the HSC Code 3.3.3 or Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.3 Emergency source of electrical power in craft required to comply with the HSC Code 3.3.4 is not practicable, details of the proposed arrangements are to be submitted.

3.3.6 For passenger craft with the restrictive notation Passenger (A), the emergency source of power is to be capable of supplying simultaneously the services referred to in Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.3 Emergency source of electrical power in craft required to comply with the HSC Code 3.3.7, Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.3 Emergency source of electrical power in craft required to comply with the HSC Code 3.3.7.(b) and Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.3 Emergency source of electrical power in craft required to comply with the HSC Code 3.3.7.(d).(ii) and Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.3 Emergency source of electrical power in craft required to comply with the HSC Code 3.3.7.(d).(vi), for a period of 5 hours, the services referred to in Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.3 Emergency source of electrical power in craft required to comply with the HSC Code 3.3.7.(c) and Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.3 Emergency source of electrical power in craft required to comply with the HSC Code 3.3.7.(e) for the periods specified, and, additionally, the ‘Not under command’ lights for a period of 12 hours.

3.3.7 The electrical power available is to be sufficient to supply all those services that are essential for safety in an emergency, due regard being paid to such services as may have to be operated simultaneously. The emergency source of electrical power is to be capable, having regard to starting currents and the transitory nature of certain loads, of supplying simultaneously at least the following services for the periods specified hereinafter, if they depend upon an electrical source for their operation:

  1. for a period of 12 hours, emergency lighting:

    1. at the stowage positions of life-saving appliances and, additionally, for passenger craft at the preparation, launching and deployed positions of survival craft and equipment for embarkation into those craft;

    2. at all escape routes, such as alleyways, stairways, exits from accommodation and service spaces, embarkation points, etc.;

    3. in the passenger compartments or public spaces, if any;

    4. in the machinery spaces, and main emergency generating spaces including their control positions;

    5. in control stations;

    6. at the stowage positions for fireman’s outfits; and

    7. at the steering gear;

  2. for a period of 12 hours:

    1. the navigation lights, and other lights required by the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea in force;

    2. electrical internal communication equipment for announcements during evacuation;

    3. fire detection and general alarm system and manual fire-alarms; and

    4. remote control devices of fire-extinguishing systems if electrical;

  3. for a period of four hours of intermittent operation:

    1. the daylight signalling lamps, if they have no independent supply from their own accumulator battery; and

    2. the craft’s whistle or siren, if electrically driven;

  4. for a period of 12 hours:

    1. the navigational equipment as required by statutory Regulations; where such provision is unreasonable or impracticable, this requirement may be waived for craft of less than 5000 gross tonnage;

    2. essential electrically powered instruments and controls for propulsion machinery, if alternate sources of power are not available for such devices;

    3. emergency fire pump;

    4. the automatic sprinkler pump and drencher pump, if fitted;

    5. the emergency bilge pump and all the equipment essential for the operation of electrically powered remote controlled bilge valves; and

    6. the craft radio facilities required to be available in an emergency;

  5. for a period of 10 minutes:

    1. power drives for directional control devices including those required to direct thrust forward and astern, unless there is a manual alternative complying with Pt 14, Ch 1, 6.1 Control;

  6. for Passenger (B) craft only, for a period of half an hour:

    1. power operated sliding watertight doors together with their indicators and warning signals.

  7. for any passenger high speed craft with lifts, for a period of half an hour:

    1. the emergency arrangements to bring the lift cars to deck level for the escape of persons. The passenger lift cars may be brought to deck level sequentially in an emergency.

3.3.8 The emergency source of electrical power may be either a generator or an accumulator battery, which is to comply with the following:

  1. Where the emergency source of electrical power is a generator it is to be:

    1. driven by a suitable prime mover with an independent supply of fuel, having a flashpoint (closed cup test) of not less than 43º C;

    2. started automatically upon failure of the main source of electrical power supply unless a transitional source of emergency electrical power complying with Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.3 Emergency source of electrical power in craft required to comply with the HSC Code 3.3.9 is provided; where the emergency generator is automatically started, it is to be automatically connected to the emergency switchboard; those services referred to in Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.3 Emergency source of electrical power in craft required to comply with the HSC Code 3.3.9 are to be connected automatically to the emergency generator; and

    3. provided with a transitional source of emergency electrical power as specified in Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.3 Emergency source of electrical power in craft required to comply with the HSC Code 3.3.9, except on cargo craft where it may be omitted when an emergency generator is provided capable both of supplying the services mentioned in that paragraph and of being automatically started and supplying the required load as quickly as is safe and practicable subject to a maximum of 45 seconds.

  2. Where the emergency source of electrical power is an accumulator battery it is to be capable of:

    1. carrying the emergency electrical load without recharging while maintaining the voltage of the battery throughout the discharge period within 12 per cent above or below its nominal voltage;

    2. automatically connecting to the emergency switchboard in the event of failure of the main source of electrical power; and

    3. immediately supplying at least those services specified in Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.3 Emergency source of electrical power in craft required to comply with the HSC Code 3.3.9.

3.3.9 The transitional source of emergency electrical power where required by Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.3 Emergency source of electrical power in craft required to comply with the HSC Code 3.3.8 is to consist of an accumulator battery suitably located for use in an emergency which is to operate without recharging while maintaining the voltage of the battery throughout the discharge period within 12 per cent above or below its nominal voltage and be of sufficient capacity and is to be so arranged as to supply automatically in the event of failure of either the main or the emergency source of electrical power for half an hour at least the following services if they depend upon an electrical source for their operation:

  1. the lighting required by Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.3 Emergency source of electrical power in craft required to comply with the HSC Code 3.3.7 and Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.3 Emergency source of electrical power in craft required to comply with the HSC Code 3.3.7.(b). For this transitional phase, the required emergency electric lighting, in respect of the machinery space and accommodation and service spaces, may be provided by permanently fixed, individual, automatically charged, relay operated accumulator lamps; and

  2. the services required by Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.3 Emergency source of electrical power in craft required to comply with the HSC Code 3.3.7.(b) and Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.3 Emergency source of electrical power in craft required to comply with the HSC Code 3.3.7.(c);

  3. with respect to watertight doors:

    1. power to operate the watertight doors but not necessarily simultaneously, unless an independent temporary source of stored energy is provided. The power source should have sufficient capacity to operate each door at least three times, i.e. closed-open-closed, against an adverse list of 15º, and

    2. power to the control, indication and alarm circuits for the watertight doors.

Alternatively, the above services may have independent supplies, for the period specified, from accumulator batteries suitably located for use in an emergency

3.3.10 For passenger craft, propulsion and direction system instruments and controls power supplies are to be arranged to provide an uninterruptible supply of emergency power.

3.3.11 No accumulator battery fitted in accordance with this Section, unless for engine starting, is to be installed in the same space as the emergency switchboard. An indicator is to be mounted in a suitable place in the craft's operating compartment to indicate when the batteries constituting either the emergency source of electrical power or the transitional source of electrical power are being discharged, and provision is to be made to charge them in situ from a reliable on board supply.

3.3.12 In addition to the emergency lighting required by 3.3.7(a) to (c), passenger craft with roll on - roll off spaces are to be provided with the following:

  1. in all passenger public spaces and alleyways supplementary electric lighting than can operate for at leat three hours when all other sources of electric power have failed and under any condition of heel. The illumination provided is to be such that the approach to the means of escape can be readily seen. The source of power for the supplementary is to consist of accumulator batteries within the lighting units that are continuously charged, where practicable, from the emergency switch-board. Consideration may be given to other means of lighting which is at least as effective. The supplementary lighting is to be such that any failure of the lamp will be immediately apparent. Any accumulator battery provided is to be replaced at intervals having regard to the specified service life in the ambient conditions that they are subject to in service; and

  2. a portable rechargeable battery operated lamp is to be provided in every crew space alleyway, recreational space and every working space which is normally occupied unless supplementary emergency lighting, as required by Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.3 Emergency source of electrical power in craft required to comply with the HSC Code 3.3.12 is provided.

3.4 Emergency source of electrical power in cargo craft, patrol and pilot craft, workboats and other similar craft of 500 tons gross tonnage and above; and cargo craft, patrol and pilot craft, workboats and other similar craft less than 500 tons gross tonnage

3.4.1 The arrangements for the emergency source of electrical power are to satisfy the requirements of this sub- Section and, additionally, Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.2 Emergency source of electrical power in passenger craft and for yachts that are 500 gt or more 3.2.1, Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.2 Emergency source of electrical power in passenger craft and for yachts that are 500 gt or more 3.2.3, Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.2 Emergency source of electrical power in passenger craft and for yachts that are 500 gt or more 3.2.6 and Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.2 Emergency source of electrical power in passenger craft and for yachts that are 500 gt or more 3.2.10 to Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.2 Emergency source of electrical power in passenger craft and for yachts that are 500 gt or more 3.2.15.

3.4.2 The emergency source of electrical power, associated transforming equipment, if any, transitional source of emergency power, emergency switchboard and emergency lighting switchboard are to be located such that the emergency generator and the main generators together meet the requirements of Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.1 General 3.1.4.

3.4.3 The electrical power available is to be sufficient to supply all those services that are essential for safety in an emergency, due regard being paid to such services as may have to be operated simultaneously. The emergency source of electrical power is to be capable, having regard to starting currents and the transitory nature of certain loads, of supplying simultaneously at least the following services for the periods specified hereinafter, if they depend upon an electrical source for their operation:

  1. for a period of three hours, emergency lighting at every survival craft preparation station, muster and embarkation station and over the sides;

  2. for a period of 12 hours, emergency lighting:

    1. at the stowage positions of life-saving appliances;

    2. at all escape routes, such as alleyways, stairways, exits from accommodation and service spaces, embarkation points, etc.;

    3. in the public spaces, if any;

    4. in the machinery spaces, and main emergency generating spaces including their control positions;

    5. in control stations;

    6. at the stowage positions for fireman's outfits;

    7. at the steering gear; and

    8. at the emergency fire pump, at the sprinkler pump, if any, and at the emergency bilge pump, if any, and at the starting positions of their motors;

  3. for a period of 12 hours:

    1. the navigation lights, and other lights required by the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea in force; and

    2. the radio communications, as required by statutory regulations;

  4. for a period of 12 hours:

    1. electrical internal communication equipment for announcements during evacuation;

    2. fire detection and general alarm system and manual fire alarms; and

    3. remote control devices of fire-extinguishing systems if electrical;

    unless such services have an independent supply for a period of 12 hours from an accumulator battery, suitably located for use in an emergency;

  5. for a period of four hours of intermittent operation:

    1. the daylight signalling lamps, if they have no independent supply from their own accumulator battery; and

    2. the craft's whistle or siren, if electrically driven;

  6. for a period of 12 hours:

    1. the navigational equipment as required by statutory regulations; where such provision is unreasonable or impracticable, this requirement may be waived for craft of less than 5000 tons gross tonnage;

    2. essential electrically powered instruments and controls for propulsion machinery, if alternate sources of power are not available for such devices;

    3. emergency fire pump;

    4. the automatic sprinkler pump and drencher pump, if fitted and;

    5. the emergency bilge pump and all the equipment essential for the operation of electrically powered remote controlled bilge valves.

  7. for a period of 10 min:

    1. power drives for directional control devices including those required to direct thrust forward and astern, unless there is a manual alternative complying with Pt 14, Ch 1, 6.1 Control 6.1.5.

  8. for a period of half an hour:

    1. any watertight doors required by Chapter 2 to be power-operated together with their indicators and warning signals; and

  9. where applicable, the services required by Pt 16, Ch 2, 2.4 Prime mover governors 2.4.2.

3.4.4 The emergency source of electrical power may be either a generator or an accumulator battery, which is to comply with the following:

  1. Where the emergency source of electrical power is a generator it is to be:

    1. driven by a suitable prime mover with an independent supply of fuel, having a flashpoint (closed cup test) of not less than 43°C;

    2. started automatically upon failure of the main source of electrical power supply unless a transitional source of emergency electrical power in accordance with Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.4 Emergency source of electrical power in cargo craft, patrol and pilot craft, workboats and other similar craft of 500 tons gross tonnage and above; and cargo craft, patrol and pilot craft, workboats and other similar craft less than 500 tons gross tonnage 3.4.5 is provided; where the emergency generator is automatically started, it is to be automatically connected to the emergency switchboard; those services referred to in Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.4 Emergency source of electrical power in cargo craft, patrol and pilot craft, workboats and other similar craft of 500 tons gross tonnage and above; and cargo craft, patrol and pilot craft, workboats and other similar craft less than 500 tons gross tonnage 3.4.5 are to be connected automatically to the emergency generator; and

    3. provided with a transitional source of emergency electrical power as specified in Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.4 Emergency source of electrical power in cargo craft, patrol and pilot craft, workboats and other similar craft of 500 tons gross tonnage and above; and cargo craft, patrol and pilot craft, workboats and other similar craft less than 500 tons gross tonnage 3.4.5 unless an emergency generator is provided capable both of supplying the services mentioned in that paragraph and of being automatically started and supplying the required load as quickly as is safe and practicable subject to a maximum of 45 seconds.

  2. Where the emergency source of electrical power is an accumulator battery it is to be capable of:

    1. carrying the emergency electrical load without recharging while maintaining the voltage of the battery throughout the discharge period within 12 per cent above or below its nominal voltage;

    2. automatically connecting to the emergency switchboard in the event of failure of the main source of electrical power; and

    3. immediately supplying at least those services specified in Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.4 Emergency source of electrical power in cargo craft, patrol and pilot craft, workboats and other similar craft of 500 tons gross tonnage and above; and cargo craft, patrol and pilot craft, workboats and other similar craft less than 500 tons gross tonnage 3.4.5.

3.4.5 The transitional source of emergency electrical power where required by Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.4 Emergency source of electrical power in cargo craft, patrol and pilot craft, workboats and other similar craft of 500 tons gross tonnage and above; and cargo craft, patrol and pilot craft, workboats and other similar craft less than 500 tons gross tonnage 3.4.4 is to consist of an accumulator battery suitably located for use in an emergency which is to operate without recharging while maintaining the voltage of the battery throughout the discharge period within 12 per cent above or below its nominal voltage and be of sufficient capacity and is to be so arranged as to supply automatically in the event of failure of either the main or the emergency source of electrical power for half an hour at least the following services if they depend upon an electrical source for their operation:

  1. the lighting required by Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.4 Emergency source of electrical power in cargo craft, patrol and pilot craft, workboats and other similar craft of 500 tons gross tonnage and above; and cargo craft, patrol and pilot craft, workboats and other similar craft less than 500 tons gross tonnage 3.4.3. For this transitional phase, the required emergency electric lighting, in respect of the machinery space and accommodation and service spaces may be provided by permanently fixed, individual, automatically charged, relay operated accumulator lamps, and

  2. all services required by Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.4 Emergency source of electrical power in cargo craft, patrol and pilot craft, workboats and other similar craft of 500 tons gross tonnage and above; and cargo craft, patrol and pilot craft, workboats and other similar craft less than 500 tons gross tonnage 3.4.3 and Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.4 Emergency source of electrical power in cargo craft, patrol and pilot craft, workboats and other similar craft of 500 tons gross tonnage and above; and cargo craft, patrol and pilot craft, workboats and other similar craft less than 500 tons gross tonnage 3.4.3.(e) unless such services have an independent supply for the period specified from an accumulator battery suitably located for use in an emergency.

  3. with respect to watertight doors:

    1. power to operate the watertight doors but not necessarily simultaneously, unless an independent temporary source of stored energy is provided. The power source should have sufficient capacity to operate each door at least three times i.e. closed-open-closed, against an adverse list of 15°;

    2. power to the control, indication and alarm circuits for the watertight doors for half an hour.

3.5 Starting arrangements

3.5.1 Where the emergency source of power is a generator, the starting arrangements are to comply with the requirements given in Pt 10 Prime Movers.

3.6 Prime mover governor

3.6.1 Where the emergency source of power is a generator, the governor is to comply with Pt 16, Ch 2, 2.4 Prime mover governors.

3.7 Radio installation

3.7.1 Every radio installation as required by statutory regulations, is to be provided with reliable, permanently arranged electrical lighting, independent of the main and emergency sources of electrical power, for the adequate illumination of the radio controls for operating the radio installation.

3.7.2 A reserve source or sources of energy is to be provided on every craft, for the purpose of conducting distress and safety radio-communications, in the event of failure of the craft's main and emergency sources of electrical power. The reserve source or sources of energy is to be capable of simultaneously operating the VHF radio installation and, as appropriate for the sea or sea area for which the craft is equipped, either the MF radio installation, the MF/HF radio installation, or the INMARSAT `ship to earth' station and any of the additional loads mentioned in Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.7 Radio installation 3.7.4, Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.7 Radio installation 3.7.5 and Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.7 Radio installation 3.7.7 for a period of at least one hour. The reserve source or sources of energy need not supply independent HF and MF radio installations at the same time.

3.7.3 The reserve source or sources of energy is to be independent of the propelling power of the craft and the craft's electrical system.

3.7.4 Where, in addition to the VHF radio installation, two or more of the other radio installations, referred to in Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.7 Radio installation 3.7.2, can be connected to the reserve source or sources of energy, the reserve source or sources are to be capable of simultaneously supplying, for the period specified by Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.7 Radio installation 3.7.2, the VHF radio installation and:

  1. all other radio installations which can be connected to the reserve source or sources of energy at the same time; or

  2. whichever of the other radio installations will consume the most power, if only one of the other radio installations can be connected to the reserve source or sources of energy at the same time as the VHF radio installation.

3.7.5 The reserve source or sources of energy may be used to supply the electrical lighting required by Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.7 Radio installation 3.7.1.

3.7.6 Where a reserve source of energy consists of a rechargeable accumulator battery or batteries a means of automatically charging the batteries is to be provided which is to be capable of recharging them to minimum capacity requirements within 10 hours.

3.7.7 If an uninterrupted input of information from the craft's navigational or other equipment to a radio installation as referred to in Pt 16, Ch 2, 3.7 Radio installation 3.7.2 is needed to ensure its proper performance, means are to be provided to ensure the continuous supply of such information in the event of failure of the craft's main or emergency source of electrical power.

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