International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), 1974

Chapter XIIAdditional safety measures for bulk carriers

Regulation 2

Application Bulk carriers shall comply with the requirements of this chapter in addition to the applicable requirements of other chapters.

Regulation 3

Implementation schedule Bulk carriers constructed before 1 July 1999 to which regulations 4 or 6 apply shall comply with the provisions of such regulations according to the following schedule, with reference to the enhanced programme of inspections required by regulation Xl-1/2:

.1 bulk carriers which are 20 years of age and over on 1 July 1999, by the date of the first intermediate survey or the first periodical survey* after 1 July 1999, whichever comes first;

.2 bulk carriers which are 15 years of age and over but less than 20 years of age on 1 July 1999, by the date of the first periodical survey* after 1 July 1999, but not later than 1 July 2002; and

.3 bulk carriers which are less than 15 years of age on 1 July 1999, by the date of the first periodical survey* after the date on which the ship reaches 15 years of age, but not later than the date on which the ship reaches 17 years of age.

Regulation 4

Damage stability requirements applicable to bulk carriers SEE INTERPRETATION 1

1 Bulk carriers of 150 m in length and upwards of single-side skin construction, designed to carry solid bulk cargoes having a density of 1,000 kg/m3 and above, constructed on or after 1 July 1999, shall, when loaded to the Summer Load Line, be able to withstand flooding of any one cargo hold in all loading conditions and remain afloat in a satisfactory condition of equilibrium, as specified in paragraph 4.

2 Bulk carriers of 150 m in length and upwards of double-side skin construction in which any part of longitudinal bulkhead is located within 8/5 or 11 .5 m, whichever is less, inboard from the ship's side at right angle to the centreline at the assigned Summer Load Line, designed to carry solid bulk cargoes having a density of 1,000 kg/m 3 and above, constructed on or after 1 July 2006, shall, when loaded to the Summer Load Line, be able to withstand flooding of any one cargo hold in all loading conditions and remain afloat in a satisfactory condition of equilibrium, as specified in paragraph 4.

3 Bulk carriers of 150 m in length and upwards of single-side skin construction, carrying solid bulk cargoes having a density of 1,780 kg/m 3 and above, constructed before 1 July 1999, shall, when loaded to the Summer Load Line, be able to withstand flooding of the foremost cargo hold in all loading conditions and remain afloat in a satisfactory condition of equilibrium, as specified in paragraph 4. This requirement shall be complied with in accordance with the implementation schedule specified in regulation 3.

4 Subject to the provisions of paragraph 7, the condition of equilibrium after flooding shall satisfy the condition of equilibrium laid down in the annex to resolution A.320(1X) - Regulation equivalent to regulation 27 of the International Convention on Load Lines, 1966, as amended by resolution A.514(13). The assumed flooding need only take into account flooding of the cargo hold space to the water level outside the ship in that flooded condition. The permeability of a loaded hold shall be assumed as 0.9 and the permeability of an empty hold shall be assumed as 0.95, unless a permeability relevant to a particular cargo is assumed for the volume of a flooded hold occupied by cargo and a permeability of 0.95 is assumed for the remaining empty volume of the hold.

* Refer to Application of SOLAS regulations X/1/3, X/1/7 and X/1/11 (MSC.1/Circ.1463).

5 Bulk carriers constructed before 1 July 1999, which have been assigned a reduced freeboard in compliance with regulation 27(7) of the International Convention on Load Lines, 1966, as adopted on 5 April 1966, may be considered as complying with paragraph 3 of this regulation.

6 Bulk carriers which have been assigned a reduced freeboard in compliance with the provisions of paragraph (8) of the regulation equivalent to regulation 27 of the International Convention on Load Lines, 1966, adopted by resolution A.320(IX), as amended by resolution A.514(13), may be considered as complying with paragraphs 1 or 2, as appropriate.

7 On bulk carriers which have been assigned reduced freeboard in compliance with the provisions of regulation 27(8) of annex B of the Protocol of 1988 relating to the International Convention on Load Lines, 1966, the condition of equilibrium after flooding shall satisfy the relevant provisions of that Protocol.

Regulation 5

Structural strength of bulk carriers SEE INTERPRETATION 2

1 Bulk carriers of 150 m in length and upwards of single-side skin construction, designed to carry solid bulk cargoes having a density of 1,000 kg/m3 and above, constructed on or after 1 July 1999, shall have sufficient strength to withstand flooding of any one cargo hold to the water level outside the ship in that flooded condition in all loading and ballast conditions, taking also into account dynamic effects resulting from the presence of water in the hold, and taking into account the recommendations adopted by the Organization.*

2 Bulk carriers of 150 m in length and upwards of double-side skin construction, in which any part of longitudinal bulkhead is located within B/5 or 11.5 m, w hichever is less, inboard from the ship's side at right angle to the centreline at the assigned Summer Load Line, designed to carry bulk cargoes having a density of 1,000 kg/m 3 and above, constructed on or after 1 July 2006, shall comply with the structural strength provisions of paragraph 1.

Regulation 6

Structural and other requirements for bulk carriers SEE INTERPRETATION 3

1 Bulk carriers of 150 m in length and upwards of single-side skin construction, carrying solid bulk cargoes having a density of 1,780 kg/m 3 and above, constructed before 1 July 1999, shall comply with the following requirements in accordance with the implementation schedule specified in regulation 3:

.1 The transverse watertight bulkhead between the two foremost cargo holds and the double bottom of the foremost cargo hold shall have sufficient strength to withstand flooding of the foremost cargo hold, taking also into account dynamic effects resulting from the presence of water in the hold, in compliance with the bulk carrier bulkhead and double bottom strength standards. For the purpose of this regulation, the bulk carrier bulkhead and double bottom strength standards shall be treated as mandatory.

.2 In considering the need for, and the extent of, strengthening of the transverse watertight bulkhead or double bottom to meet the requirements of 1.1, the following restrictions may be taken into account:

.1 restrictions on the distribution of the total cargo weight between the cargo holds; and

.2 restrictions on the maximum deadweight.

* Refer to Recommendation on compliance with SOLAS regulation X/1/5 (resolution 3 of the 1997 SOLAS Conference).

.3 For bulk carriers using either of, or both, the restrictions given in 1.2.1 and 1.2.2 above for the purpose of fulfilling the requirements of 1.1, these restrictions shall be complied with whenever solid bulk cargoes having a density of 1,780 kg/m 3 and above are carried.

2 Bulk carriers of 150 m in length and upwards constructed on or after 1 July 2006, in all areas with double-side construction, shall comply with the following requirements:

.1 Primary stiffening structures of the double-side skin shall not be placed inside the cargo hold space .

.2 Subject to the provisions below, the distance between the outer shell and the inner shell at any transverse section shall not be less than 1,000 mm measured perpendicular to the side shell. The double-side skin construction shall be such as to allow access for inspection as provided in regulation 11-1/3-6 and the Technical Provisions referring thereto .

.1 The clearances below need not be maintained in way of cross ties, upper and lower end brackets of transverse framing or end brackets of longitudinal framing .

.2 The minimum width of the clear passage through the double-side skin space in way of obstructions such as piping or vertical ladders shall not be less than 600 mm .

.3 Where the inner and/or outer skins are transversely framed, the minimum clearance between the inner surfaces of the frames shall not be less than 600 mm .

.4 Where the inner and outer skins are longitudinally framed, the minimum clearance between the inner surfaces of the frames shall not be less than 800 mm. Outside the parallel part of the cargo hold length this clearance may be reduced where necessitated by the structural configuration, but shall in no case be less than 600 mm .

.5 The minimum clearance referred to above shall be the shortest distance measured between assumed lines connecting the inner surfaces of the frames on the inner and outer skins.

3 The double-side skin spaces, with the exception of top-side wing tanks, if fitted, shall not be used for the carriage of cargo.

4 In bulk carriers of 150 m in length and upwards, carrying solid bulk cargoes having a density of 1,000 kg m3 and above, constructed on or after 1 July 2006:

.1 the structure of cargo holds shall be such that all contemplated cargoes can be loaded and discharged by standard loading/discharge equipment and procedures without damage which may compromise the safety of the structure;

.2 effective continuity between the side shell structure and the rest of the hull structure shall be assured; and

.3 the structure of cargo areas shall be such that single failure of one stiffening structural member will not lead to immediate consequential failure of other structural items potentially leading to the collapse of the entire stiffened panels.

Regulation 7

Survey and maintenance of bulk carriers SEE INTERPRETATION 4

1 Bulk carriers of 150 m in length and upwards of single-side skin construction, constructed before

1 July 1999, of 10 years of age and over, shall not carry solid bulk cargoes having a density of 1,780 kg/m 3 and above unless they have satisfactorily undergone either:

.1 a periodical survey,* in accordance with the enhanced programme of inspections during surveys required by regulation Xl-1/2; or

* Refer to Application of SOLAS regulations X/1/3, X/1/7 and X/1/11 (MSC.1/Circ.1463).

.2 a survey of all cargo holds to the same extent as required for periodical surveys in the enhanced programme of inspections during surveys required by regulation Xl-1/2.

2 Bulk carriers shall comply with the maintenance requirements provided in regulation 11-1/3-1 and the Standards for owners' inspection and maintenance of bulk carrier hatch covers, adopted by the Organization by resolution MSC.169(79), as may be amended by the Organization, provided that such amendments are adopted, brought into force and take effect in accordance with the provisions of article VIII of the present Convention concerning the amendment procedures applicable to the annex other than chapter I.

Regulation 8

Information on compliance with requirements for bulk carriers SEE INTERPRETATION 5

1 The booklet required by regulation Vl/7.2 shall be endorsed by the Administration, or on its behalf, to indicate that regulations 4, 5, 6 and 7, as appropriate, are complied with.

2 Any restrictions imposed on the carriage of solid bulk cargoes having a density of 1,780 kg/m 3 and above in accordance with the requirements of regulations 6 and 14 shall be identified and recorded in the booklet referred to in paragraph 1.

3 A bulk carrier to which paragraph 2 applies shall be permanently marked on the side shell at midships, port and starboard, with a solid equilateral triangle, having sides of 500 mm and its apex 300 mm below the deck line, and painted a contrasting colour to that of the hull.

Regulation 9

Requirements for bulk carriers not being capable of complying with regulation 4.3 due to the design configuration of their cargo holds SEE INTERPRETATION 6

For bulk carriers constructed before 1 July 1999 being within the application limits of regulation 4.3, which have been constructed with an insufficient number of transverse watertight bulkheads to satisfy that regulation, the Administration may allow relaxation from the application of regulations 4.3 and 6, on condition that they shall comply with the following requirements:

.1 for the foremost cargo hold, the inspections prescribed for the annual survey in the enhanced programme of inspections during surveys required by regulation Xl-1 /2 shall be replaced by the inspections prescribed therein for the intermediate survey of cargo holds;

.2 they are provided with bilge well high water level alarms in all cargo holds, or in cargo conveyor tunnels, as appropriate, giving an audible and visual alarm on the navigation bridge, as approved by the Administration or an organization recognized by it in accordance with the provisions of regulation Xl-1/1; and

.3 they are provided with detailed information on specific cargo hold flooding scenarios. This information shall be accompanied by detailed instructions on evacuation preparedness under the provisions of section 8 of the International Safety Management (ISM) Code and be used as the basis for crew training and drills.

Regulation 10

Solid bulk cargo density declaration SEE INTERPRETATION 7

1 Prior to loading bulk cargo on bulk carriers of 150 m in length and upwards, the shipper shall declare the density of the cargo, in addition to providing the cargo information required by regulation Vl/2.

2 For bulk carriers to which regulation 6 applies, unless such bulk carriers comply with all relevant requirements of this chapter applicable to the carriage of solid bulk cargoes having a density of 1,780 kg/m 3 and above, any cargo declared to have a density within the range 1,250 kg/m 3 to 1,780 kg/m 3 shall have its density verified by an accredited testing organization.*

Regulation 11

Loading instrument SEE INTERPRETATION 8

(Unless provided otherwise, this regulation applies to bulk carriers regardless of their date of construction)

1 Bulk carriers of 150 m in length and upwards shall be fitted with a loading instrument capable of providing information on hull girder shear forces and bending moments, taking into account the recommendation adopted by the Organization.t

2 Bulk carriers of 150 m in length and upwards constructed before 1 July 1999 shall comply with the requirements of paragraph 1 not later than the date of the first intermediate or periodical survey:/: of the ship to be carried out after 1 July 1999.

3 Bulk carriers of less than 150 m in length constructed on or after 1 July 2006 shall be fitted with a loading instrument capable of providing information on the ship's stability in the intact condition. The computer software shall be approved for stability calculations by the Administration and shall be provided with standard conditions for testing purposes relating to the approved stability information.§

Regulation 12

Hold, ballast and dry space water ingress alarmsCJI SEE INTERPRETATIONS 9 AND 10

(This regulation applies to bulk carriers regardless of their date of construction)

1 Bulk carriers shall be fitted with water level detectors:

.1 in each cargo hold, giving audible and visual alarms, one when the water level above the inner bottom in any hold reaches a height of 0.5 m and another at a height not less than 15% of the depth of the cargo hold but not more than 2 m. On bulk carriers to which regulation 9.2 applies, detectors with only the latter alarm need be installed. The water level detectors shall be fitted in the aft end of the cargo holds. For cargo holds which are used for water ballast, an alarm overriding device may be installed. The visual alarms shall clearly discriminate between the two different water levels detected in each hold;

.2 in any ballast tank forward of the collision bulkhead required by regulation 11-1/12, giving an audible and visual alarm when the liquid in the tank reaches a level not exceeding 10% of the tank capacity. An alarm overriding device may be installed to be activated when the tank is in use; and

* In verifying the density of solid bulk cargoes, reference should be made to Uniform method of measurement of the density of bulk cargoes (MSC/Circ.908). t Refer to Recommendation on loading instruments (resolution 5 of the 1997 SOLAS Conference). + Refer to Application of SOLAS regulations X/1/3, X/1/7 and X/1/11 (MSC.1/Circ.1463). § Refer to the relevant parts of the appendix to Guidelines for the on-board use and application of computers (MSC/Circ.891), Guidelines on the provision of stability-related information for bulk carriers (MSC/Circ.1159) and Uniform method of measurement of the density of bulk cargoes (MSC/Circ.908). 'II When water level detectors are installed on bulk carriers in compliance with regulation Xll/12, the performance standards for water level detectors in resolution MSC.188(79) or resolution MSC.188(79)/Rev.2, as appropriate, should be applied.

.3 in any dry or void space other than a chain cable locker, any part of which extends forward of the foremost cargo hold, giving an audible and visual alarm at a water level of 0.1 m above the deck. Such alarms need not be provided in enclosed spaces the volume of which does not exceed 0.1% of the ship's maximum displacement volume.

2 The audible and visual alarms specified in paragraph 1 shall be located on the navigation bridge.

3 Bulk carriers constructed before 1 July 2004 shall comply with the requirements of this regulation not later than the date of the annual, intermediate or renewal survey of the ship to be carried out after 1 July 2004, whichever comes first.

Regulation 13

Availability of pumping systems* SEE INTERPRETATIONS 11 AND 12

(This regulation applies to bulk carriers regardless of their date of construction)

1 On bulk carriers, the means for draining and pumping ballast tanks forward of the collision bulkhead and bilges of dry spaces any part of which extends forward of the foremost cargo hold shall be capable of being brought into operation from a readily accessible enclosed space, the location of which is accessible from the navigation bridge or propulsion machinery control position without traversing exposed freeboard or superstructure decks. Where pipes serving such tanks or bilges pierce the collision bulkhead, valve operation by means of remotely operated actuators may be accepted, as an alternative to the valve control specified in regulation 11-1 /12, provided that the location of such valve controls complies with this regulation.

2 Bulk carriers constructed before 1 July 2004 shall comply with the requirements of this regulation not later than the date of the first intermediate or renewal survey of the ship to be carried out after 1 July 2004, but in no case later than 1 July 2007.

Regulation 14

Restrictions from sailing with any hold empty SEE INTERPRETATION 13

Bulk carriers of 150 m in length and upwards of single-side skin construction, carrying cargoes having a density of 1,780 kg/m 3 and above, if not meeting the requirements for withstanding flooding of any one cargo hold as specified in regulation 5.1 and the Standards and criteria for side structures of bulk carriers of single- side skin construction, adopted by the Organization by resolution MSC.168(79), as may be amended by the Organization, provided that such amendments are adopted, brought into force and take effect in accordance with the provisions of article VIII of the present Convention concerning the amendment procedures applicable to the annex other than chapter I, shall not sail with any hold loaded to less than 10% of the hold's maximum allowable cargo weight when in the full load condition, after reaching 10 years of age. The applicable full load condition for this regulation is a load equal to or greater than 90% of the ship's deadweight at the relevant assigned freeboard.

* Refer to Interpretation of SOLAS regulation X/1/73 (MSC/Circ.1069).

UNIFIED INTERPRETATIONS

Unified interpretations for chapter XII

1 Damage stability requirements applicable (Source: MSC-MEPC.2/Circ.10)

to bulk carriers Reg.4 For single-hull oil tanker conversion into bulk carrier, the provisions of chapter XII applicable for ships constructed on or after the date on which conversion occurs should be applied as for a new ship to the entire bulk carrier, i.e. all new and existing parts and spaces, as follows:

.1 Regulation 4.1 should be applied .

.2 Regulation 4.2 should be applied for ships constructed on or after 1 July 2006. Only cargo holds the double side-skin space of which does not meet the specified dimension need to be considered flooded .

.3 Regulation 4.3 should not be applied .

.4 Regulation 4.4 should be applied .

.5 Regulation 4.5 should not be applied .

.6 Regulations 4.6 and 4.7 should be applied.

2 Structural strength of bulk carriers (Source: MSC-MEPC.2/Circ.10)

Reg.5 For single-hull oil tanker conversion into bulk carrier, the provisions of chapter XII applicable for ships constructed on or after the date on which conversion occurs should be applied as for a new ship to the entire bulk carrier, i.e. all new and existing parts and spaces, as follows:

.1 Regulation 5.1 should apply.

.2 Regulation 5.2 should apply, based on the following : for ships constructed on or after 1 July 2006, only cargo holds the double side-skin space of which does not meet the specified dimension need to be considered flooded.

3 Structural and other requirements for bulk carriers (Source: MSC-MEPC.2/Circ.10)

Reg.6 For single-hull oil tanker conversion into bulk carrier, the provisions of chapter XII applicable for ships constructed on or after the date on which conversion occurs should be applied as for a new ship to the entire bulk carrier, i.e. all new and existing parts and spaces, as follows:

.1 Regulation 6.1 should not be applied .

.2 Regulation 6.2 should be applied .

.3 Regulation 6.3 should be applied .

.4 Regulation 6.4 should be applied.

4 Survey and maintenance of bulk carriers (Source: MSC-MEPC.2/Circ.10)

Reg. 7 For single-hull oil tanker conversion into bulk carrier, the provisions of chapter XII applicable for ships constructed on or after the date on which conversion occurs should be applied as for a new ship to the entire bulk carrier, i.e. all new and existing parts and spaces, as follows:

.1 Regulation 7.1 should not be applied. However, SOLAS regulation Xl-1/2 is applicable .

.2 Regulation 7.2 should be applied.

5 Information on compliance with requirements (Source: MSC-MEPC.2/Circ.10)

for bulk carriers Reg.8 For single-hull oil tanker conversion into bulk carrier, the provisions of chapter XII applicable for ships constructed on or after the date on which conversion occurs should be applied as for a new ship to the entire bulk carrier, i.e. all new and existing parts and spaces, as follows:

.1 Regulation 8.1 should be applied .

.2 Regulations 8.2 and 8.3 should not be applied.

UNIFIED INTERPRETATIONS

Unified interpretations for chapter XII

6 Requirements for bulk carriers not being capable (Source: MSC-MEPC.2/Circ.10)

of complying with regulation 4.3 due to the design configuration of their cargo holds Reg.9 This regulation should not be applied to single-hull oil tanker conversion into bulk carrier.

7 Solid bulk cargo density declaration (Source: MSC-MEPC.2/Circ.10)

Reg.10 For single-hull oil tanker conversion into bulk carrier, the provisions of chapter XII applicable for ships constructed on or after the date on which conversion occurs should be applied as for a new ship to the entire bulk carrier, i.e. all new and existing parts and spaces, as follows:

.1 Regulation 10.1 should be applied .

.2 Regulation 10.2 should not be applied.

8 Loading instrument (Source: MSC-MEPC.2/Circ.10)

Reg. 11 For single-hull oil tanker conversion into bulk carrier, the provisions of chapter XII applicable for ships constructed on or after the date on which conversion occurs should be applied as for a new ship to the entire bulk carrier, i.e. all new and existing parts and spaces, as follows:

.1 Regulation 11.1 should be applied .

.2 Regulation 11.2 should not be applied .

.3 Regulation 11.3 should be applied.

9 Hold, ballast and dry space water ingress alarms (Source: MSC.1/Circ.1572/Rev.2)

Reg.12 When water level detectors are installed on bulk carriers in compliance with regulation Xll/12, the Performance standards for water level detectors on ships subject to SOLAS regulations 11-1/25, 11-1/25-1 and Xll/12, annexed to resolution MSC.188(79)/Rev.2 adopted on 8 June 2023 by MSC 107, should be applied as follows, taking into account the following interpretations to the paragraphs of the Performance standards:

Detectors should comply with the performance standards in resolution MSC.188(79)/Rev.2 if the detectors are installed on: (a) new ships for which the building contract is placed on or after 1 January 2024, or in the absence of the contract, the keel of which is laid or which is at a similar stage of construction on or after 1 January 2024; or (b) ships other than those ships prescribed in (a), with a contractual delivery date for the equipment to the ship on or after 1 January 2024, or in the absence of a contractual delivery date to the ship, actually delivered to the ship on or after 1 January 2024.

Detectors installed on ships other than those above should conform to performance standards not inferior to those specified in the annex to resolution MSC.188(79).

9.1 Performance standards for water level detectors on ships subject to SOLAS regulations 11-1/25, 11-1/25-1 and Xll/12, paragraph 3.2.3 Detection equipment includes the sensor and any filter and protection arrangements for the detector installed in cargo holds and other spaces as required by regulation Xll/12.1.

9.2 Performance standards for water level detectors on ships subject to SOLAS regulations 11-1/25, 11-1/25-1 and Xll/12, paragraph 3.2.5

9.2.1 In general, the equipment in cargo areas should be suitable for installation in hazardous areas (comparable with Zone 1) as defined in IEC 60092-506, Clause 3.1. The equipment should be suitable for the explosive gas atmosphere and/or combustible dust that can be present, depending on the cargo carried.

9.2.2 The equipment should be manufactured, tested, marked and installed in accordance with IEC 60079-series or other equivalent recognized international standard.

9.2.3 Where certified safe type equipment is installed, the equipment should be adequately protected against mechanical damage from the cargo so as to maintain its EX-properties.

9.2.4 Where a ship is designed only for the carriage of cargoes that cannot create a combustible or explosive atmosphere then the requirement for certified safe type equipment should not be insisted upon, provided the operational instructions included in the Manual required by 4.1 of the appendix to the annex specifically exclude the carriage of cargoes that could produce a potential explosive atmosphere.

UNIFIED INTERPRETATIONS

Unified interpretations for chapter XII

Any exclusion of cargoes identified in the annex should be consistent with the ship's Cargo Book and any Certification relating to the carriage of specifically identified cargoes.

9.2.5 Where the characteristics of the dust and/or gases are unknown, temperature class T6, gas group IIC and/or either dust group IIIC or IP5X, are to be used as appropriate.

9.2.6 Where detector systems include certified safe type equipment, plans of the arrangements should be appraised/approved by individual classification societies.

9.3 Performance standards for water level detectors on ships subject to SOLAS regulations 11-1/25, 11-1/25-1 and Xll/12, paragraph 3.3.2 The pre-alarm, as a primary alarm, should indicate a condition that requires prompt attention to prevent an emergency condition and the main alarm, as an emergency alarm should indicate that immediate actions must be taken to prevent danger to human life or to the ship.

9.4 Performance standards for water level detectors on ships subject to SOLAS regulations 11-1/25, 11-1/25-1 and Xll/12, paragraph 3.3.6 Fault monitoring should address faults associated with the system that include open circuit, short circuit, as well as arrangement details that would include loss of power supplies and CPU failure for computer- based alarm/monitoring system, etc.

9.5 Performance standards for water level detectors on ships subject to SOLAS regulations 11-1/25, 11-1/25-1 and Xll/12, paragraph 3.3.7

9.5.1 The electrical power supply should be from two separate sources, one should be the main source of electrical power and the other should be the emergency source, unless a continuously charged dedicated accumulator battery is fitted, having arrangement, location and endurance equivalent to that of the emergency source (18 hours). The battery supply may be an internal battery in the water level detector system.

9.5.2 The changeover arrangement of supply from one electrical source to another need not be integrated into the water level detector system.

9.5.3 Where batteries are used for the secondary power supply, failure alarms for both power supplies should be provided.

9.6 Performance standards for water level detectors on ships subject to SOLAS regulations 11-1/25, 11-1/25-1 and Xll/12, footnote to paragraph 3.4.1

9.6.1 IACS UR E10 may be used as an equivalent test standard to IEC 60092-504.

9.6.2 The range of tests should include the following:

For alarm/monitoring panel:

.1 functional tests in accordance with resolution MSC.188(79)/Rev.2 on the Performance standards for water level detectors on ships subject to SOLAS regulations 1/-1/25, 1/-1/25-1 and X/1/12;

.2 electrical power supply failure test;

.3 power supply variation test;

.4 dry-heat tests;

.5 damp-heat tests;

.6 vibration test;

.7 EMC tests;

.8 insulation resistance test;

.9 high-voltage test; and

.10 static and dynamic inclinations tests, if moving parts are contained.

For IS barrier unit, if located in the wheelhouse: in addition to the certificate issued by a competent independent testing laboratory, EMC tests should also be carried out.

For water ingress detectors:

.1 functional tests in accordance with resolution MSC.188(79)/Rev.2 on the Performance standards for water level detectors on ships subject to SOLAS regulations 1/-1/25, 1/-1/25-1 and X/1/12;

.2 electrical power supply failure test;

.3 power supply variation test;

UNIFIED INTERPRETATIONS

Unified interpretations for chapter XII

.4 dry-heat test;

.5 damp-heat test;

.6 vibration test;

.7 enclosure class in accordance with resolution MSC.188(79)/Rev.2 on the Performance standards for water level detectors on ships subject to SOLAS regulations 11-1/25, 11-1/25-1 and X/1/12;

.8 insulation resistance test;

.9 high-voltage test; and

.10 static and dynamic inclinations tests (if the detectors contain moving parts).

9.7 Performance standards for water level detectors on ships subject to SOLAS regulations 11-1/25, 11-1/25-1 and Xll/12, appendix, paragraph 2.1.1 The test procedure should satisfy the following criteria:

.1 the type tests should be witnessed by a classification society surveyor if the tests are not carried out by a competent independent test facility;

.2 type tests should be carried out on a prototype or randomly selected item(s) which are representative of the manufactured item that is being type tested; and

.3 type tests should be documented (type test reports) by the manufacturer and submitted for review by classification societies.

9.8 Performance standards for water level detectors on ships subject to SOLAS regulations 11-1/25, 11-1/25-1 and Xll/12, appendix, paragraph 2.1.1.1

9.8.1 The submerged test period for electrical components intended to be installed in ballast tanks and cargo tanks used as ballast tanks should be not less than 20 days.

9.8.2 The submerged test period for electrical components intended to be installed in dry spaces and cargo holds not intended to be used as ballast tanks should be not less than 24 hours.

9.8.3 Where a detector and/or cable connecting device (e.g. junction box, etc.) is installed in a space adjacent to a cargo hold (e.g. lower stool, etc.) and the space is considered to be flooded under damage stability calculations, the detectors and equipment should satisfy the requirements of IP68 for a water head equal to the hold depth for a period of 20 days or 24 hours on the basis of whether or not the cargo hold is intended to be used as a ballast tank as described in the previous paragraphs.

9.9 Performance standards for water level detectors on ships subject to SOLAS regulations 11-1/25, 11-1/25-1 and Xll/12, appendix, paragraph 2.1.1.2

9.9.1 The type test required for the sensor should be in accordance with the following:

.1 The test container for the cargo/water mixture should be dimensioned so that its height and volume are such that the sensor and any filtration fitted can be totally submerged for the repeated functionality tests required by paragraph 2.1.1.2 and the static and dynamic inclination tests identified in the previous interpretation .

.2 The sensor and any filtration fitted that should be submerged and should be arranged in the container as they would be installed in accordance with the installation instructions required by paragraph 4.4 .

.3 The pressure in the container for testing the complete detector should be not more than 0.2 bar at the sensor and any filter arrangement. The pressure may be realized by pressurization or by using a container of sufficient height.

.4 The cargo/water mixture should be pumped into the test container and suitable agitation of the mixture provided to keep the solids in suspension. The effect of pumping the cargo/ water mixture into the container should not affect the operation of the sensor and filter arrangements .

.5 The cargo/water mixture should be pumped into the test container to a predetermined level that submerges the detector and the operation of the alarm observed .

.6 The test container should then be drained and the deactivation of the alarm condition observed.

.7 The test container and sensor with any filter arrangement should be allowed to dry without physical intervention.

UNIFIED INTERPRETATIONS

Unified interpretations for chapter XII

.8 The test procedure should be repeated consecutively 10 times without cleaning any filter arrangement that may be fitted in accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions (see also 2.1.1.2) .

.9 Satisfactory alarm activation and deactivation at each of the 10 consecutive tests will demonstrate satisfactory type testing.

9.9.2 The cargo/water mixture used for type testing should be representative of the range of cargoes within the following groups and should include the cargo with the smallest particles expected to be found from a typical representative sample:

.1 iron ore particles and seawater;

.2 coal particles and seawater;

.3 grain particles and seawater; and

.4 aggregate (sand) particles and seawater.

The smallest and largest particle size together with the density of the dry mixture should be ascertained and recorded. The particles should be evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Type testing with representative particles will in general qualify all types of cargoes within the four groupings shown above.

The following provides guidance on the selection of particles for testing purposes:

.1 Iron ore particles should mainly consist of small loose screenings of iron ore and not lumps of ore (dust with particle size < 0.1 mm) .

.2 Coal particles should mainly consist of small loose screenings of coal and not lumps of coal (dust with particle size < 0.1 mm) .

.3 Grain particles should mainly consist of small loose grains of free-flowing grain (grain having a size > 3 mm, such as wheat) .

.4 Aggregate particles should mainly consist of small loose grains of free-flowing sand and without lumps (dust with particle size < 0.1 mm).

9.10 Performance standards for water level detectors on ships subject to SOLAS regulations 11-1/25, 11-1/25-1 and Xll/12, appendix, paragraph 3.1.1 The test procedure should satisfy the fo llowing criteria:

.1 type tests should be witnessed by a classification society surveyor if the tests are not carried out by a competent independent test facility;

.2 type tests should be carried out on a prototype or randomly selected item(s) which are representative of the manufactured item that is being type tested; and

.3 type tests should be documented (type test reports) by the manufacturer and submitted for review by classification societies.

9.11 Performance standards for water level detectors on ships subject to SOLAS regulations 11-1/25, 11-1/25-1 and Xll/12, appendix, section 4 - manuals For each ship, a copy of the manual should be made available to the surveyor at least 24 hours prior to survey of the water-level detection installation. Each classification society should ensure that any plans required for classification purposes have been appraised/approved as appropriate.

10 Hold, ballast and dry space water ingress alarms (Source: MSC-MEPC.2/Circ.10)

Reg.12 For single-hull oil tanker conversion into bulk carrier, the provisions of chapter XII applicable for ships constructed on or after the date on which conversion occurs should be applied as for a new ship to the entire bulk carrier, i.e. all new and existing parts and spaces, as follows:

.1 Regulations 12.1 and 12.2 should be applied .

.2 Regulation 12.3 should not be applied.

11 Dewatering of forward spaces of bulk carriers (Source: MSC.1/Circ.1572/Rev.2)

Reg. 13 11.1 Where the piping arrangements for dewatering closed dry spaces are connected to the piping arrangements for the drainage of water ballast tanks, two non-return valves should be provided to prevent the ingress of water into dry spaces from those intended for the carriage of water ballast. One of these non-return valves should be fitted with a shut-off isolation arrangement. The non-return valves should be located in readily accessible positions. The shut-off isolation arrangement should be capable of being controlled from the navigation bridge, the propulsion machinery control position or enclosed space which is readily accessible from the navigation bridge or the propulsion machinery control position without

UNIFIED INTERPRETATIONS

Unified interpretations for chapter XII

travelling exposed freeboard or superstructure decks. In this context, a position which is accessible via an under-deck passage, a pipe trunk or other similar means of access should not be taken as being in the "readily accessible enclosed space".

11.2 Under regulation Xll/13.1:

.1 the valve specified under SOLAS regulation 11-1/12.6.1 should be capable of being controlled from the navigation bridge, the propulsion machinery control position or enclosed space which is readily accessible from the navigation bridge or the propulsion machinery control position without travelling exposed freeboard or superstructure decks. In this context, a position which is accessible via an under-deck passage, a pipe trunk or other similar means of access should not be taken as being in the "readily accessible enclosed space";

.2 the valve should not move from the demanded position in the case of failure of the control system power or actuator power;

.3 positive indication should be provided at the remote control station to show that the valve is fully open or closed; and

.4 local hand-powered valve operation from above the freeboard deck, as permitted under SOLAS regulation 11-1/12.6.1, is required. An acceptable alternative to such arrangement may be remotely operated actuators as specified in regulation Xll/13.1, on the condition that all of the provisions of regulation Xll/13.1 are met.

11.3 The dewatering arrangements should be such that any accumulated water can be drained directly by a pump or eductor.

11.4 The dewatering arrangements should be such that when they are in operation, other systems essential for the safety of the ship, including firefighting and bilge systems, remain available and ready for immediate use. The systems for normal operation of electric power supplies, propulsion and steering should not be affected by the operation of the dewatering systems. It should also be possible to immediately start fire pumps and have a readily available supply of firefighting water, and to be able to configure and use the bilge system for any compartment when the dewatering system is in operation.

11.5 Bilge wells should be provided with gratings or strainers that will prevent blockage of the dewatering system with debris.

11.6 The enclosures of electrical equipment for the dewatering system installed in any of the forward dry spaces should provide protection to IPX8 standard as defined in publication IEC 60529 for a water head equal to the height of the space in which the electrical equipment is installed for a time duration of at least 24 hours.

12 Availability of pumping systems (Source: MSC-MEPC.2/Circ.10)

Reg.13 For single-hull oil tanker conversion into bulk carrier, the provisions of chapter XII applicable for ships constructed on or after the date on which conversion occurs should be applied as for a new ship to the entire bulk carrier, i.e. all new and existing parts and spaces, as follows:

.1 Regulation 13.1 should be applied .

.2 Regulation 13.2 should not be applied.

13 Restrictions from sailing with any hold empty (Source: MSC-MEPC.2/Circ.10)

Reg. 14 This regulation should not be applied to single-hull oil tanker conversion into bulk carrier.