COUNCIL DIRECTIVE 98/18/EC of 17 March 1998 on safety rules and standards for passenger ships

THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,

Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Community, and in particular Article 84(2) thereof,

Having regard to the proposal from the Commission (1),

Having regard to the opinion of the Economic and Social Committee (2),

Acting in accordance with the procedure laid down in Article 189c of the Treaty (3),

(1) Whereas within the framework of the common transport policy further measures must be adopted to enhance safety in maritime transport;

(2) Whereas the Community is seriously concerned about the latest shipping casualties in which passenger ships were involved resulting in a massive loss of life; whereas persons using passenger ships and high speed passenger craft throughout the Community have the right to expect and to rely on an appropriate level of safety on board;

(3) Whereas work equipment and personal protective equipment of workers are not covered by this Directive, because the provisions of Council Directive 89/391/EEC of 12 June 1989 on the introduction of measures to encourage improvements in the safety and health of workers at work (4) and the relevant provisions of its relevant individual directives are applicable to the use of such equipment on passenger ships engaged on domestic voyages;

(4) Whereas the provision of maritime passenger transport services between Member States has already been liberalised by Regulation (EEC) No 4055/86 (5); whereas the application of the principle of freedom to provide services to maritime transport within Member States (maritime cabotage), provided for by Regulation (EEC) No 3577/92 (6), will be completed throughout the Community within the next few years;

(5) Whereas to attain a high level of safety, and to remove barriers to trade, it is necessary to establish harmonised safety standards at an appropriate level for passenger ships and craft operating domestic services; whereas standards for vessels operating international voyages are being developed within the International Maritime Organisation (IMO); whereas this Directive introduces procedures to request action at IMO in order to bring in line the standards for international voyages with the standards of this Directive;

(6) Whereas, as proposed by the Commission in its communication 'A Common Policy on Safe Seas`, the Council, in its Resolution of 8 June 1993 on a common policy on safe seas (7), and the European Parliament, inter alia in its Resolution on safety at sea of 27 October 1994 (8), urged the Commission to submit as soon as possible formal proposals concerning safety rules for passenger ships when engaged on domestic voyages;

(7) Whereas, in view, in particular, of the internal market dimension of maritime passenger transport, action at Community level is the only possible way to establish a common level of safety for ships throughout the Community;

(8) Whereas, in view of the proportionality principle, a Council Directive is the appropriate legal instrument as it provides a framework for a uniform and compulsory application of the safety standards by Member States, while leaving to each Member State the right to decide the implementation tools that best fit its internal system;

(9) Whereas in the interests of improving safety and avoiding distortions of competition the common safety requirements should apply to passenger ships and high speed passenger craft engaged on domestic voyages in the Community, irrespective of the flag they fly; whereas it is however necessary to exclude some categories of ships for which the rules of this Directive are technically unsuitable or economically unviable;

(10) Whereas passenger ships should be divided into different classes depending upon the range and conditions of the sea areas in which they operate; whereas high speed passenger craft should be categorised in accordance with the provisions of the High Speed Craft Code established by the IMO;

(11) Whereas the main reference framework for the safety standards should be the 1974 Safety of Life at Sea Convention, as amended, which encompasses internationally agreed standards for passenger ships and high speed passenger craft engaged on international voyages, as well as appropriate Resolutions by the IMO and other measures complementing and interpreting this Convention;

(12) Whereas the various classes of both new and existing passenger ships require a different approach for establishing safety requirements guaranteeing an equivalent safety level in view of the specific needs and limitations of these various classes; whereas it is appropriate to make distinctions in the safety requirements to be respected between new and existing ships since imposing the rules for new ships on existing ships would imply such extensive structural changes as to make them economically unviable;

(13) Whereas the financial and technical implications arising from the upgrading of existing ships to the standards provided for by the Directive justify certain transitional periods; whereas in the light of the very significant number of islands in Greece, and the need to maintain constant frequent maritime connections between them and the serious effect on such transport operations and related employment which would arise by immediate application of major upgrading requirements to existing ships of more than 27 years of age on 1 October 2000, it is appropriate to provide for derogations from these requirements for such vessels operating exclusively between ports in Greece, the operation of which will cease on all domestic voyages in the Community not later than on the date on which they reach the age of 35 years;

(14) Whereas in view of the substantial differences in conception, construction and use of high speed passenger craft compared to traditional passenger ships, such craft should be required to respect special rules;

(15) Whereas shipborne marine equipment, complying with the provisions of Council Directive 96/98/EC of 20 December 1996 on marine equipment (9), when installed on board a passenger ship, should not be subject to additional tests since such equipment is already subject to the standards and procedures of that Directive;

(16) Whereas in order to ensure full application of this Directive, Member States should lay down a system of penalties for breaching the national provisions adopted pursuant to this Directive and may control the compliance with the provisions of this Directive based on those envisaged in Council Directive 95/21/EC of 19 June 1995 concerning the enforcement, in respect of shipping using Community ports and sailing in the waters under jurisdiction of the Member States, of international standards for ship safety, pollution prevention and shipboard living and working conditions (port State control) (10);

(17) Whereas, subject to control under the Committee procedure, Member States may adopt additional safety requirements if justified by local circumstances, permit the use of equivalent standards, or adopt exemptions from the provisions of this Directive under certain operating conditions, or adopt safeguard measures in exceptional dangerous circumstances;

(18) Whereas it is necessary for a Committee composed of the representatives of the Member States to assist the Commission in the effective application of this Directive; whereas the Committee set up in Article 12 of Council Directive 93/75/EC of 13 September 1993 concerning minimum requirements for vessels bound for or leaving Community ports and carrying dangerous or polluting goods (11) can assume this function;

(19) Whereas certain provisions of this Directive, as well as Annex I, may be adapted through this Committee to take account of developments at international level and specifically amendments to International Conventions;

(20) Whereas for the control of the effective implementation and enforcement of this Directive, surveys are to be carried out on new and existing passenger ships and craft; whereas compliance with this Directive has to be certified by or on behalf of the administration of the flag State,

HAS ADOPTED THIS DIRECTIVE:

Article 1 Purpose

The purpose of this Directive is to introduce a uniform level of safety of life and property on new and existing passenger ships and high speed passenger craft, when both categories of ships and craft are engaged on domestic voyages, and to lay down procedures for negotiation at international level with a view to a harmonisation of the rules for passenger ships engaged on international voyages.

Article 2 Definitions

For the purpose of this Directive and its Annexes,

(a) 'International Conventions` means the 1974 International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (the 1974 Solas Convention), and the 1966 International Convention on Load Lines, together with Protocols and amendments thereto in force on the date of adoption of this Directive;

(b) 'Intact Stability Code` means the 'Code on Intact Stability for all types of ships covered by IMO Instruments` contained in IMO Assembly Resolution A.749 (18) of 4 November 1993, as amended at the date of adoption of this Directive;

(c) 'High Speed Craft Code` means the 'International Code for Safety of High Speed Craft` contained in IMO Maritime Safety Committee Resolution MSC 36 (63) of 20 May 1994, as amended on the date of adoption of this Directive;

(d) 'GMDSS` means the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System as laid down in Chapter IV of the 1974 Solas Convention, as amended at the date of adoption of this Directive;

(e) 'a passenger ship` means a ship which carries more than 12 passengers;

(f) 'a high speed passenger craft` means a high speed craft as defined in Regulation 1 of Chapter X of the 1974 Solas Convention, as amended at the date of adoption of this Directive, which carries more than 12 passengers;

passenger ships engaged on domestic voyages in sea areas of Class B, C or D shall not be considered as high speed passenger craft when:

- their displacement corresponding to the design waterline is less than 500 m3, and

- their maximum speed, as defined in paragraph 1.4.30 of the High Speed Craft Code, is less than 20 knots;

(g) 'a new ship` means a ship the keel of which is laid or which is at a similar stage of construction on or after the date established by Article 14(1). A similar stage of construction means the stage at which:

(i) construction identifiable with a specific ship begins; and

(ii) assembly of that ship has commenced comprising at least 50 tonnes or 1 % of the estimated mass of all structural material, whichever is less;

(h) 'an existing ship` means a ship which is not a new ship;

(i) 'a passenger` is every person other than:

(i) the master and the members of the crew or other persons employed or engaged in any capacity on board a ship on the business of that ship; and

(ii) a child under one year of age;

(j) 'length of a ship` unless expressly provided otherwise, means 96 % of the total length on a water line at 85 % of the least moulded depth measured from the top of the keel, or the length from the fore side of the stem to the axis of the rudder stock on that waterline, if that be greater. In ships designed with a rake of keel the waterline on which this length is measured shall be parallel to the designed waterline;

(k) 'bow height` means the bow height defined in Regulation 39 of the 1966 International Convention on Load Lines as the vertical distance at the forward perpendicular between the waterline corresponding to the assigned summer freeboard and the designed trim and the top of the exposed deck at side;

(l) 'ship with a full deck` means a ship that is provided with a complete deck, exposed to weather and sea, which has permanent means of closing all openings in the weatherpart thereof and below which all openings in the sides of the ship are fitted with permanent means of at least weathertight closing.

The complete deck may be a watertight deck or equivalent structure consisting of a non-watertight deck completely covered by a weathertight structure of adequate strength to maintain the weathertight integrity and fitted with weathertight closing appliances;

(m) 'international voyage` means a voyage by sea from a port of a Member State to a port outside that Member State, or conversely;

(n) 'domestic voyage` means a voyage in sea areas from a port of a Member State to the same or another port within that Member State;

(o) 'sea area` means an area as established pursuant to the provision of Article 4(2).

However, for the application of the provisions on radiocommunication the definitions of sea areas will be those defined in Regulation 2, Chapter IV of the 1974 Solas Convention;

(p) 'port area` means an area other than a sea area, as defined by the Member States, extending to the outermost permanent harbour works forming an integral part of the harbour system, or to the limits defined by natural geographical features protecting an estuary or similar sheltered area;

(q) 'place of refuge` means any naturally or artificially sheltered area which may be used as a shelter by a ship or craft under conditions likely to endanger its safety;

(r) 'administration of the flag State` means the competent authorities of the State whose flag the ship or craft is entitled to fly;

(s) 'host State` means a Member State to or from whose port(s) a ship or craft, flying another flag than the flag of that Member State, is carrying out domestic voyages;

(t) 'recognised organisation` means an organisation recognised in conformity with Article 4 of Council Directive 94/57/EC of 22 November 1994 on common rules and standards for ship inspection and survey organisations and for the relevant activities of maritime administrations (12);

(u) 'a mile` is 1 852 metres;

(v) 'significant wave height` is the average height of the one third highest observed wave heights over a given period.

Article 3 Scope

1. This Directive applies to:

(a) new passenger ships;

(b) existing passenger ships of 24 metres in length and above;

(c) high speed passenger craft,

regardless of their flag, when engaged on domestic voyages.

Each Member State, in its capacity as host State, shall ensure that passenger ships and high speed passenger craft, flying the flag of a State which is not a Member State, fully comply with the requirements of this Directive, before they may be engaged on domestic voyages in that Member State.

2. This Directive does not apply to:

(a) passenger ships, which are:

- ships of war and troopships,

- ships not propelled by mechanical means,

- vessels constructed in material other than steel or equivalent and not covered by the standards concerning High Speed Craft (Resolution MSC 36 (63)) or Dynamically Supported Craft (Resolution A.373 (X)),

- wooden ships of primitive build,

- original, and individual replicas of, historical passenger ships designed before 1965, built predominantly with the original materials,

- pleasure yachts unless they are or will be crewed and carrying more than 12 passengers for commercial purposes,

- ships exclusively engaged in port areas;

(b) high speed passenger craft, which are:

- craft of war and troopcraft,

- pleasure craft, unless they are or will be crewed and carrying more than 12 passengers for commercial purposes, and

- craft exclusively engaged in port areas.

Article 4 Classes of passenger ships

1. Passenger ships are divided into the following classes according to the sea area in which they operate:

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2. The list of sea areas shall be established and updated, on the basis of notifications which shall be made by the Member States, in accordance with the procedure laid down in Article 9. Member States shall notify not later than six months before the implementation date mentioned in Article 14(1), the sea areas under their jurisdiction, delimiting the zones for the all-year-round and, where appropriate, restricted periodical operation of the classes of ships using the criteria for classes set out in paragraph 1. The list shall be published in the Official Journal of the European Communities.

3. For high speed passenger craft the categories defined in Chapter 1 (1.4.10) and (1.4.11) of the High Speed Craft Code shall apply.

Article 5 Application

1. Both new and existing passenger ships and high speed passenger craft when engaged on domestic voyages shall comply with the relevant safety rules laid down in this Directive.

2. Member States shall not withhold from operation, for reasons arising from this Directive, passenger ships or high speed passenger craft, when engaged on domestic voyages, which comply with the requirements of this Directive, including any additional requirements imposed by a Member State in accordance with the provisions of Article 7(1).

Each Member State, acting in its capacity as host State, shall recognise the High Speed Craft Safety Certificate and Permit to Operate issued by another Member State for high speed passenger craft, when engaged on domestic voyages, or the Passenger Ship Safety Certificate referred to in Article 11 issued by another Member State for passenger ships when engaged on domestic voyages.

3. A host State may inspect a passenger ship or a high speed passenger craft, when engaged on domestic voyages, and audit its documentation, in accordance with the provisions of Directive 95/21/EC.

4. All shipborne marine equipment, as listed in Annex A(1) to Directive 96/98/EC and complying with the provisions of the latter, will be considered to be in conformity with the provisions of this Directive, whether or not in Annex I it is required that equipment must be approved and subjected to tests to the satisfaction of the Administration of the flag State.

Article 6 Safety requirements

1. With regard to new and existing passenger ships of Classes A, B, C and D:

(a) the construction and maintenance of hull, main and auxiliary machinery, electrical and automatic plants shall comply with the standards specified for classification by the rules of a recognised organisation, or equivalent rules used by an Administration in accordance with Article 14(2) of Directive 94/57/EC;

(b) the provisions of Chapters IV, including the 1988 GMDSS amendments, V and VI of the 1974 Solas Convention, as amended at the date of adoption of this Directive, shall apply;

(c) the provisions for shipborne navigational equipment of Regulation 12, Chapter V of the 1974 Solas Convention, as amended at the date of adoption of this Directive, shall apply. Shipborne navigational equipment, as listed in Annex A(1) to Directive 96/98/EC and complying with the provisions of the latter, is considered to be in conformity with the type approval requirements of Solas regulation V/12(r).

2. With regard to new passenger ships:

(a) general requirements:

(i) new passenger ships of Class A shall comply entirely with the requirements of the 1974 Solas Convention, as amended at the date of adoption of this Directive, and with the specific relevant requirements specified in this Directive and its Annex I. For those regulations, for which Solas leaves the interpretation to the discretion of the Administration, the Administration of the flag State shall apply the interpretations as contained in Annex I;

(ii) new passenger ships of Classes B, C, and D shall comply with the specific relevant requirements specified in this Directive and its Annex I;

(b) load line requirements:

(i) all new passenger ships of 24 metres in length and above shall comply with the 1966 International Convention on Load Lines;

(ii) criteria with a level of safety equivalent to those of the 1966 International Convention on Load Lines shall be applied in relation to length and Class, to new passenger ships of less than 24 metres in length;

(iii) notwithstanding paragraphs (i) and (ii), new passenger ships of Class D are exempted from the minimum bow height requirement laid down in the 1966 International Convention on Load Lines;

(iv) new passenger ships of Classes A, B, C, and D shall have a full deck.

3. With regard to existing passenger ships:

(a) existing passenger ships of Class A shall comply with the regulations for existing passenger ships defined in the 1974 Solas Convention, as amended at the date of adoption of this Directive, and with the specific relevant requirements of this Directive and Annex I. For those regulations, for which Solas leaves the interpretation to the discretion of the Administration, the Administration of the flag State shall apply the interpretations as contained in Annex I;

(b) existing passenger ships of Class B shall comply with the specific relevant requirements of this Directive and Annex I;

(c) existing passenger ships of Classes C and D shall comply with the specific relevant requirements of this Directive and Chapter III of Annex I and in respect of matters not covered by such requirements with the rules of the Administration of the flag State. Such rules shall provide an equivalent level of safety to that of Chapters II-1 and II-2 of Annex I, while taking into account the specific local operational conditions related to the sea areas in which ships of such classes may operate.

Before existing passenger ships of Classes C and D can be engaged on regular domestic voyages in a host State, the Administration of the flag State shall obtain concurrence of the host State on such rules;

(d) where a Member State is of the view that rules required by the Administration of the host State pursuant to paragraph (c) are unreasonable, it shall immediately notify the Commission thereof. The Commission shall initiate proceedings in order to take a decision in accordance with the procedure laid down in Article 9;

(e) repairs, alterations and modifications of a major character and outfitting related thereto shall be in compliance with the requirements for new ships as prescribed in paragraph 2(a). Alterations made to an existing ship which are intended solely to achieve a higher survivability standard, shall not be regarded as modifications of a major character;

(f) the provisions of paragraph (a), unless earlier dates are specified in the 1974 Solas Convention and the provisions of paragraphs (b) and (c), unless earlier dates are specified in Annex I, shall not be applied in relation to a ship whose keel was laid or which was at a similar stage of construction:

(i) before 1 January 1940: until 1 July 2006;

(ii) on or after 1 January 1940, but before 31 December 1962: until 1 July 2007;

(iii) on or after 1 January 1963, but before 31 December 1974: until 1 July 2008;

(iv) on or after 1 January 1975, but before 31 December 1984: until 1 July 2009;

(v) on or after 1 January 1985, but before the date in Article 14(1): until 1 July 2010;

(g) by way of derogation, existing Class A and B passenger ships operating before 1 January 1996 exclusively on domestic voyages between ports situated in Greece, may be exempted from compliance with the requirements of regulations II-1/B/8-1, II-1/B/8-2 of the 1974 Solas Convention or of Annex I to this Directive and from II-2/B/16 of Annex I to this Directive provided they meet each of the following conditions:

(i) on 1 October 2000, their age, calculated from the date on which their keel was laid or on which they were at a similar stage of construction as defined in Article 2(g), will be more than 27 years,

(ii) their operation will remain limited to domestic voyages between ports situated in Greece only; and

(iii) their operation on domestic voyages will cease not later than on the date on which they reach the age of 35 years.

In addition, Class A and B passenger ships flying the flag of Greece and transferred to domestic voyages between ports situated in Greece before the date of entry into force of this Directive may also be exempted provided that at the time when they are transferred, they comply fully with applicable international standards and provided that they meet conditions (i), (ii) and (iii).

For the purpose of this derogation, Greece will forward to the Commission not later than three months after the date of adoption of this Directive, a complete list of all existing Class A and B passenger ships complying with the above conditions, including for each ship full details on the ship's name, distinctive numbers or letters, port of registry, passenger capacity, IMO number (if any), class and the date of keel laying or on which the ship was at a similar stage of construction. This list shall be published in the Official Journal of the European Communities.

The derogation granted to such ships shall be explicitly mentioned on their Passenger Ship Safety Certificate.

4. With regard to high speed passenger craft:

(a) high speed passenger craft constructed or subjected to repairs, alterations or modifications of a major character, on or after 1 January 1996, shall comply with the requirements of Regulation X/3 of the 1974 Solas Convention, unless

- their keel was laid or was at a similar stage of construction not later than the date of entry into force of this Directive, and

- delivery and commissioning is to take place not later than the six months following entry into force of this Directive, and

- they fully comply with the requirements of the Code of Safety for Dynamically Supported Craft (DSC Code) contained in IMO Assembly Resolution A.373(X) of 14 November 1977, as amended by Maritime Safety Committee Resolution MSC 37(63) of 19 May 1994;

(b) high speed passenger craft constructed before 1 January 1996 and not complying with the requirements of the High Speed Craft Code shall continue operation certified under this Code.

High speed passenger craft constructed before 1 January 1996 and not complying with the requirements of the High Speed Craft Code may not be engaged on domestic voyages, unless they were already in operation on domestic voyages in a Member State at the date of entry into force of this Directive, in which case they may be allowed to continue their domestic operation in that Member State. Such craft shall comply with the requirements of the DSC Code as amended;

(c) the construction and maintenance of high speed passenger craft and its equipment shall comply with the rules for the classification of high speed craft of a recognised organisation, or equivalent rules used by an Administration in accordance with Article 14(2) of Directive 94/57/EC.

Article 7 Additional safety requirements, equivalents, exemptions and safeguard measures

1. Additional safety requirements:

If a Member State or group of Member States consider that the applicable safety requirements should be improved in certain situations due to specific local circumstances and if the need therefore is demonstrated, they may, subject to the procedure laid down in paragraph 4, adopt measures to improve the safety requirements.

2. Equivalents:

A Member State may, subject to the procedure laid down in paragraph 4, adopt measures allowing equivalents for the regulations contained in Annex I, provided that such equivalents are at least as effective as such regulations.

3. Exemptions:

Provided there is no reduction in the level of safety and subject to the procedure laid down in paragraph 4, a Member State may adopt measures to exempt ships from certain specific requirements of this Directive for domestic voyages to be carried out in that State including in its archipelagic sea areas sheltered from open sea effects under certain operating conditions, such as smaller significant wave height, restricted year period, voyages only during daylight time or under suitable climatic or weather conditions, or restricted trip duration, or proximity of rescue services.

4. A Member State which avails itself of the provisions of paragraphs 1, 2 or 3 shall proceed as follows:

(a) the Member State shall notify the Commission of the measures which it intends to adopt, including particulars to the extent necessary to confirm that the level of safety is adequately maintained;

(b) if, within a period of six months from the notification, it is decided, in accordance with the procedure laid down in Article 9, that the proposed measures are not justified, the said Member State shall be required to amend or not to adopt the proposed measures;

(c) the adopted measures shall be specified in the relevant national legislation and communicated to the Commission, which shall inform the other Member States of all particulars thereof;

(d) any of such measures shall be applied to all passenger ships of the same Class or to craft when operating under the same specified conditions, without discrimination with regard to their flag or to the nationality or place of establishment of their operator;

(e) the measures referred to in paragraph 3 shall only apply as long as the ship or craft operates under the specified conditions.

5. Safeguard measures:

Where a Member State considers that a passenger ship or craft operating on a domestic voyage within that State, notwithstanding the fact that it is complying with the provisions of this Directive, creates a risk of serious danger to safety of life or property, or environment, the operation of that ship or craft may be suspended or additional safety measures may be imposed, until such time as the danger is removed.

In the above circumstances the following procedure shall apply:

(a) the Member State shall inform the Commission and the other Member States of its decision without delay, giving substantiated reasons therefore;

(b) the Commission shall examine whether the suspension or the additional measures are justified for reasons of serious danger to safety and the environment;

(c) it will be decided, in accordance with the procedure laid down in Article 9, whether or not the decision of the Member State to suspend the operation of such ship or craft or to impose the additional measures is justified for reasons of serious danger to safety of life or property, or the environment and, if the suspension or the measures are not justified, that the Member State concerned will be required to withdraw the suspension or the measures.

Article 8 Adaptations

In accordance with the procedure laid down in Article 9,

(a) (i) the definitions in Article 2(a), (b), (c), (d) and (t); and

(ii) the provisions relating to procedures and guidelines for surveys referred to in Article 10

may be adapted in order to take account of developments at international level, in particular within IMO;

(b) Annex I may be amended to apply, for the purpose of this Directive, subsequent amendments of International Conventions.

Article 9 Committee

The Commission shall be assisted by the Committee established by Article 12(1) of Directive 93/75/EC. The Committee shall operate in accordance with the procedure laid down in paragraphs 2 and 3 of that Article.

Article 10 Surveys

1. Each new passenger ship shall be subjected by the Administration of the flag State to the surveys specified below:

(a) a survey before the ship is put into service;

(b) a periodical survey once every 12 months;

(c) additional surveys, as the occasion arises.

2. Each existing passenger ship shall be subjected by the Administration of the flag State to the surveys specified below:

(a) an initial survey, before the ship is put into service on domestic voyages in a host State, or within 12 months after the implementation date of this Directive as established in Article 14(1), for existing ships engaged on domestic voyages in the Member State the flag of which they are entitled to fly;

(b) a periodical survey once every 12 months;

(c) additional surveys, as the occasion arises.

3. Each high speed passenger craft having to comply, in accordance with the provisions of Article 6(4), with the requirements of the HSC Code, shall be subject by the Administration of the flag State to the surveys required in the High Speed Craft Code.

High speed passenger craft, having to comply, in accordance with the provisions of Article 6(4), with the requirements of the DSC Code as amended, shall be subject by the Administration of the flag State of the surveys required in the DSC Code.

4. The relevant procedures and guidelines for surveys for the Passenger Ship Safety Certificate specified in IMO Assembly Resolution A.746(18) of 4 November 1993 on survey guidelines under the harmonised system of survey and certification, as they are at the time of adoption of this Directive or procedures designed to achieve the same goal, shall be followed.

5. The surveys mentioned in paragraphs 1, 2 and 3 shall be carried out by the exclusive surveyors of the Administration of the flag State itself, of a recognised organisation or of the Member State authorised by the flag State to carry out surveys, with the purpose of ensuring that all applicable requirements of this Directive are complied with.

Article 11 Certificates

1. All new and existing passenger ships shall be provided with a Passenger Ship Safety Certificate in compliance with this Directive. The certificate shall have a format as laid down in Annex II. This certificate shall be issued by the Administration of the flag State after an initial survey, as described in Article 10(1)(a) and (2)(a), has been carried out.

2. The Passenger Ship Safety Certificate shall be issued for a period not exceeding 12 months. The period of validity of the certificate may be extended by the Administration of the flag State for a period of grace of up to one month from the date of expiry stated on it. When an extension has been granted, the new period of validity of the certificate starts from the expiry date of the existing certificate before its extension.

Renewal of the Passenger Ship Safety Certificate shall be issued after a periodical survey, as described in Article 10(1)(b) and (2)(b), has been carried out.

3. For high speed passenger craft complying with the requirements of the High Speed Craft Code, a High Speed Craft Safety Certificate and a Permit to Operate High Speed Craft shall be issued by the Administration of the flag State, in accordance with the provisions of the High Speed Craft Code.

For high speed passenger craft complying with the requirements of the DSC Code as amended, a DSC Construction and Equipment Certificate and a DSC Permit to operate shall be issued by the Administration of the flag State, in accordance with the provisions of the DSC Code.

Before issuing the Permit to Operate for high speed passenger craft engaged on domestic voyages in a host State, the Administration of the flag State shall concur with the host State on any operational conditions associated with operation of the craft in that State. Any such conditions shall be shown by the Administration of the flag State on the Permit to Operate.

4. Exemptions granted to ships or craft under and in accordance with the provisions of Article 7(3) shall be noted on the ship's or the craft's certificate.

Article 12 Solas Convention Regulations

With regard to passenger ships engaged on international voyages:

1. upon entry into force of this Directive, the Community shall submit a request to the IMO to:

(a) expedite the on-going work within the IMO to revise the regulations of the 1974 Solas Convention Chapters II-1, II-2 and III containing issues left to the discretion of the Administration, to establish harmonised interpretations for these regulations and to adopt amendments to the latter accordingly;

(b) adopt measures for mandatory application of the principles underlying the provisions of MSC Circular 606 on Port State Concurrence with Solas Exemptions;

2. the request referred to in paragraph 1 shall be made by the Presidency of the Council and the Commission, on the basis of the harmonised regulations laid down in Annex I to this Directive. All Member States shall do their utmost to ensure that IMO undertake the development of the said regulations and measures expeditiously.

Article 13 Penalties

Member States shall lay down the system of penalties for breaching the national provisions adopted pursuant to this Directive and shall take all the measures necessary to ensure that those penalties are applied. The penalties thus provided for shall be effective, proportionate and dissuasive.

Article 14 Implementation

1. Member States shall bring into force the laws, regulations and administrative provisions necessary to comply with this Directive not later than 1 July 1998.

2. When Member States adopt these measures, they shall contain a reference to this Directive or shall be accompanied by such reference on the occasion of their official publication. The methods of making such a reference shall be laid down by Member States.

3. The Member States shall immediately notify to the Commission all provisions of domestic law which they adopt in the field governed by this Directive. The Commission shall inform the other Member States thereof.

Article 15 Entry into force

This Directive shall enter into force on the 20th day following its publication in the Official Journal of the European Communities.

Article 16 Addressees

This Directive is addressed to the Member States.

Done at Brussels, 17 March 1998.

For the Council

The President

G. STRANG

(1) OJ C 238, 16.8.1996, p. 1.

(2) OJ C 212, 22.7.1996, p. 21.

(3) Opinion of the European Parliament of 5 September 1996 (OJ C 277, 23.9.1996, p. 19), Council Common Position of 17 June 1997 (OJ C 293, 26.9.1997, p. 1) and Decision of the European Parliament of 6 November 1997 (OJ C 358, 24.11.1997, p. 27).

(4) OJ L 183, 29.6.1989, p. 1.

(5) OJ L 378, 31.12.1986, p. 1.

(6) OJ L 364, 12.12.1992, p. 7.

(7) OJ C 271, 7.10.1993, p. 1.

(8) OJ C 323, 21.11.1994, p. 176.

(9) OJ L 46, 17.2.1997, p. 25.

(10) OJ L 157, 7.7.1995, p. 1.

(11) OJ L 247, 5.10.1993, p. 19.

(12) OJ L 319, 12.12.1994, p. 20. Directive as last amended by Commission Directive 97/58/EC (OJ L 274, 7.10.1997, p. 8).

ANNEX I

SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR NEW AND EXISTING PASSENGER SHIPS ENGAGED ON DOMESTIC VOYAGES

LIST OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER I - GENERAL PROVISIONS . 14

CHAPTER II-1 - CONSTRUCTION - SUBDIVISION AND STABILITY, MACHINERY AND ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS . 14

Part A - General . 14

1. Definitions relating to part B . 14

2. Definitions relating to parts C, D, and E . 15

Part B - Intact stability, subdivision and damage stability . 16

1. Intact stability . 16

2. Watertight subdivision . 17

3. Floodable length . 17

4. Permissible length of compartments . 18

5. Permeability . 18

6. Subdivision factor . 18

7. Special requirements concerning ship subdivision . 18

8. Stability in damaged conditions . 19

8-1. Stability of ro-ro passenger ships is damaged conditions . 22

8-2. Special requirements for ro-ro passenger ships carrying 400 persons or more . 23

9. Peak and machinery space bulkheads . 23

10. Double bottoms . 24

11. Assigning, marking and recording of subdivision load lines . 25

12. Construction and initial testing of watertight bulkheads, etc. . 25

13. Openings in watertight bulkheads . 26

14. Ships carrying goods vehicles and accompanying personnel . 31

15. Openings in the shell plating below the margin line . 31

16. Watertight integrity of passenger ships above the margin line . 33

17. Closure of cargo loading doors . 33

17-1. Watertight integrity from ro-ro deck (bulkhead deck) to spaces below . 34

17-2. Access to ro-ro decks . 34

17-3. Closure of bulkheads on the ro-ro deck . 35

18. Stability information . 35

19. Damage control plans . 35

20. Integrity of the hull and superstructure, damage prevention and control . 35

21. Marking, periodical operation and inspection of watertight doors, etc. . 36

22. Entries in log . 36

23. Hoistable car platforms and ramps . 36

Part C - Machinery . 37

1. General . 37

2. Internal combustion engines . 37

3. Bilge pumping arrangement . 37

4. Number and type of bilge pumps . 40

5. Means of going astern . 40

6. Steering gear . 40

7. Additional requirement for electric and electrohydraulic steering gear . 42

8. Ventilating systems in machinery spaces . 43

9. Communication between the navigating bridge and machinery space . 43

10. Engineers' alarm . 43

11. Location of emergency installations . 43

12. Machinery controls . 43

13. Steam pipe systems . 44

14. Air pressure systems . 44

15. Protection against noise . 45

16. Lifts . 45

Part D - Electrical installations . 45

1. General . 45

2. Main source of electrical power and lighting . 46

3. Emergency source of electrical power . 46

4. Supplementary emergency lighting for ro-ro ships . 47

5. Precautions against shock, fire and other hazards of electrical origin . 48

Part E - Additional requirements for periodically unattended machinery spaces . 49

Special consideration .49

1. General . 49

2. Fire precautions . 49

3. Protection against flooding . 50

4. Control of propulsion machinery from the navigating bridge . 50

5. Communication . 51

6. Alarm system . 51

7. Safety systems . 51

8. Special requirements for machinery, boiler and electrical installations . 52

9. Automatic control and alarm system . 52

CHAPTER II-2 - FIRE PROTECTION, FIRE DETECTION AND FIRE EXTINCTION . 52

Part A - General . 52

1. Basic principles . 52

2. Definitions . 53

3. Fire pumps, fire mains, hydrants, hoses and nozzles . 56

4. Fixed fire-extinguishing systems . 59

5. Fire extinguishers . 62

6. Fire-extinguishing arrangements in machinery spaces . 63

7. Special arrangements in machinery spaces . 64

8. Automatic sprinkler, fire detection and fire alarm systems . 65

9. Fixed fire detection and fire alarm systems . 67

10. Arrangements for oil fuel, lubricating oil and other flammable oils . 69

11. Fireman's outfit . 72

12. Miscellaneous items . 73

13. Fire control plans and fire drills . 74

14. Ready availability of fire-extinguishing appliances . 74

Part B - Fire safety measures . 75

1. Structure . 75

2. Main vertical zones and horizontal zones . 75

3. Bulkheads within a main vertical zone . 76

4. Fire integrity of bulkheads and decks in new ships carrying more than 36 passengers . 77

5. Fire integrity of bulkheads and decks in new ships carrying not more than 36 passengers and existing Class B ships carrying more than 36 passengers . 81

6. Means of escape . 84

6-1. Escape routes on ro-ro passengers ships . 87

7. Penetrations and openings in 'A` and 'B` class divisions . 88

8. Protection of stairways and lifts in accommodation and service spaces . 89

9. Ventilation systems . 90

10. Windows and sidescuttles . 93

11. Restricted use of combustible material . 94

12. Details of construction . 94

13. Fixed fire detection and fire alarm systems and automatic sprinkler, fire detection and fire alarm system . 95

14. Protection of special category spaces . 95

15. Fire patrols, detection, alarms and public address systems . 98

16. Upgrading of existing Class B ships carrying more than 36 passengers . 99

17. Special requirements for ships carrying dangerous goods . 100

CHAPTER III - LIFE SAVING APPLIANCES . 101

1. Definitions . 101

2. Communication, survival craft and rescue boats, personal life-saving appliances . 101

3. Emergency alarm, operating instructions, training manual, muster lists and emergency instructions . 102

4. Manning of survival craft and supervision . 104

5. Survival craft muster and embarkation arrangements . 104

5-1. Requirements for ro-ro passenger ships . 105

5-2. Helicopter landing and pick-up areas . 106

5-3. Decision support system for masters . 106

6. Launching stations . 107

7. Stowage of survival craft . 107

8. Stowage of rescue boats . 108

9. Survival craft launching and recovering arrangements . 108

10. Rescue boat embarkation, launching and recovery arrangements . 109

11. Emergency instructions . 109

12. Operational readiness, maintenance and inspections . 109

13. Abandon ship training and drills . 110

CHAPTER I GENERAL PROVISIONS

Where expressly provided, the regulations of this Annex are applicable to new and existing passenger ships of Class A, B, C and D, engaged on domestic voyages.

New Class B, C and D ships having a length of less than 24 metres have to comply with the requirements of regulations II-1/B/2 to II-1/B/8 and II-1/B/10 of this Annex, unless the Administration of a flag State, whose flag such ships are entitled to fly, ensures that they comply with the flag State's national rules and that such rules guarantee an equivalent level of safety.

Existing Class C and D ships do not have to comply with the regulations of Chapters II-1 and II-2 of this Annex, provided that the Administration of a flag State, which flag such ships are entitled to fly, ensures that they comply with the flag State's national rules and that such rules guarantee an equivalent level of safety.

Wherever the application of a IMO Resolution is required in this Annex for existing ships, ships constructed until two years after the date of adoption by IMO of such resolution need not comply with such resolution provided they comply with the applicable previous resolution(s), if any.

Under repairs, alterations and modifications of a 'major character` is understood, by way of example:

- any change that substantially alters the dimensions of a ship.

Example - Lengthening by adding new midbody,

- any change that substantially alters the passenger-carrying capacity of a ship.

Example - Vehicle deck converted to passenger accommodation,

- any change that substantially increases a ship's service life.

Example - Renewal of passenger accommodation on one entire deck.

The indication '(R . . .)` that follows several titles of regulations in this Annex refers to the regulations of the 1974 Solas Convention, as amended, on which the regulations of this Annex have been based.

CHAPTER II-1 CONSTRUCTION - SUBDIVISION AND STABILITY, MACHINERY AND ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS

PART A GENERAL

1 Definitions relating to Part B (R 2) (1)

NEW CLASS B, C AND D AND EXISTING CLASS B SHIPS:

.1 .1 Subdivision load line is the waterline used in determining the subdivision of the ship;

.2 Deepest subdivision load line is the waterline which corresponds to the greatest draught permitted by the subdivision requirements which are applicable.

.2 Length of the ship is the length measured between perpendiculars taken at the extremities of the deepest subdivision load line.

.3 Breadth of the ship is the extreme width from outside of frame to outside of frame at or below the deepest subdivision load line.

.4 Draught is the vertical distance from the moulded base line amidships to the subdivision load line in question.

.5 Deadweight is the difference in tonnes between the displacement of a ship in water of a specific gravity of 1,025 at the load waterline corresponding to the assigned summer freeboard and the lightweight of the ship.

.6 Lightweight is the displacement of a ship in tonnes without cargo, fuel, lubricating oil, ballast water, fresh water and feedwater in tanks, consumable stores, and passengers and crew and their effects.

.7 Bulkhead deck is the uppermost deck up to which the transverse watertight bulkheads are carried.

.8 Margin line is a line drawn at least 76 mm below the upper surface of the bulkhead deck at side.

.9 Permeability of a space is the percentage of that space which can be occupied by water. The volume of a space which extends above the margin line shall be measured only to the height of that line.

.10 Machinery space is to be taken as extending from the moulded base line to the margin line and between the extreme main transverse watertight bulkheads, bounding the spaces containing the main and auxiliary propulsion machinery, and boilers serving the needs of propulsion.

.11 Passenger spaces are those spaces which are provided for the accommodation and use of passengers, excluding baggage, store, provision and mail rooms.

.12 Watertight in relation to structure means capable of preventing the passage of water through the structure in any direction under the head of water likely to occur in the intact or damage condition.

.13 Weathertight means that water will not penetrate into the ship in any sea conditions.

.14 Ro-ro passenger ship means a passenger ship with ro-ro cargo spaces or special category spaces as defined in regulation II-2/A/2.

2 Definitions relating to parts C, D, and E (R 3)

NEW CLASS B, C AND D AND EXISTING CLASS B SHIPS:

.1 .1 Steering gear control system is the equipment by which orders are transmitted from the navigating bridge to the steering gear power units. Steering gear control systems comprise transmitters, receivers, hydraulic control pumps and their associated motors, motor controllers, piping and cables;

.2 Main steering gear is the machinery, rudder actuators, steering gear power units, if any, and ancillary equipment and the means of applying torque to the rudder stock (e.g. tiller or quadrant) necessary for effecting movement of the rudder for the purpose of steering the ship under normal service conditions.

.2 Steering gear power unit is:

.1 in the case of electric steering gear, an electric motor and its associated electrical equipment;

.2 in the case of electrohydraulic steering gear, an electric motor and its associated electrical equipment and connected pump;

.3 in the case of other hydraulic steering gear, a driving engine and connected pump.

.3 Auxiliary steering gear is the equipment other than any part of the main steering gear necessary to steer the ship in the event of failure of the main steering gear but not including the tiller, quadrant or components serving the same purpose.

.4 Normal operational and habitable condition is a condition under which the ship as a whole, the machinery, services, means and aids ensuring propulsion, ability to steer, safe navigation, fire and flooding safety, internal and external communications and signals, means of escape, and emergency boat winches, as well as the designed comfortable conditions of habitability are in working order and functioning normally.

.5 Emergency condition is a condition under which any services needed for normal operational and habitable conditions are not in working order due to failure of the main source of electrical power.

.6 Main source of electrical power is a source intended to supply electrical power to the main switchboard for distribution to all services necessary for maintaining the ship in normal operational and habitable condition.

.7 Dead ship condition is the condition under which the main propulsion plant, boilers and auxiliaries are not in operation due to the absence of power.

.8 Main generating station is the space in which the main source of electrical power is situated.

.9 Main switchboard is a switchboard which is directly supplied by the main source of electrical power and is intended to distribute electrical energy to the ship's services.

.10 Emergency switchboard is a switchboard which in the event of failure of the main electrical power supply system is directly supplied by the emergency source of electrical power or the transitional source of emergency power and is intended to distribute electrical energy to the emergency services.

.11 Emergency source of electrical power is a source of electrical power, intended to supply the emergency switchboard in the event of failure of the supply from the main source of electrical power.

.12 Maximum ahead service speed is the greatest speed which the ship is designed to maintain in service at sea at the deepest seagoing draught.

.13 Maximum astern speed is the speed which it is estimated the ship can attain at the designed maximum astern power at the deepest seagoing draught.

.14(a) Machinery spaces are all machinery spaces of category A and all other spaces containing propelling machinery, boilers, oil fuel units, steam and internal combustion engines, generators and major electrical machinery, oil filling stations, refrigerating, stabilizing, ventilation and air conditioning machinery, and similar spaces, and trunks to such spaces.

.14(b) Machinery spaces of category A are those spaces and trunks to such spaces which contain:

.1 internal combustion machinery used for main propulsion; or

.2 internal combustion machinery used for purposes other than main propulsion where such machinery has in the aggregate a total power output of not less than 375 kW; or

.3 any oil-fired boiler or oil fuel unit.

.15 Power actuating system is the hydraulic equipment provided for supplying power to turn the rudderstock, comprising a steering gear power unit or units, together with the associated pipes and fittings, and a rudder actuator. The power actuating systems may share common mechanical components, i.e. tiller, quadrant and rudder stock, or components serving the same purpose.

.16 Control stations are those spaces in which the ship's radio or main navigating equipment or the emergency source of power is located or where the fire recording or fire control equipment is centralized.

PART B INTACT STABILITY, SUBDIVISION AND DAMAGE STABILITY

1 Intact stability (Resolution A.167 as amended by A.206 and Resolution A.749)

NEW CLASS A, B, C AND D SHIPS OF 24 M IN LENGTH AND ABOVE:

All classes of new ships of 24 metres in length and above shall comply with the relevant provisions for passenger ships of the Code on Intact Stability as adopted on 4 November 1993 by the IMO at the 18th session of its Assembly through Resolution A.749 (18).

EXISTING CLASS A AND B SHIPS OF 24 M IN LENGTH AND ABOVE:

All existing class A and B ships shall, in all loading conditions, satisfy the following stability criteria after due correction for the effect of free surface of liquids in tanks in accordance with the assumptions of Resolution 167 Appendix I or equivalent.

(a) The area under the curve of righting lever (GZ curve) shall not be less than:

(i) 0,055 metre-radians up to an angle of heel of 30 degrees;

(ii) 0,09 metre-radians up to an angle of heel of either 40 degrees or the angle of flooding, i. e. the angle of heel at which the lower edges of any openings in the hull, superstructures or deckhouses, being openings that cannot be closed weathertight, are immersed, if that angle be less than 40 degrees;

(iii) 0,03 metre-radians between the angles of heel of 30 degrees and 40 degrees or between 30 degrees and the angle of flooding if this angle is less than 40 degrees;

(b) The righting lever GZ shall be at least 0,20 metre at an angle of heel equal to or greater than 30 degrees.

(c) The maximum righting lever GZ shall occur at an angle of heel preferably exceeding 30 degrees but not less than 25 degrees.

(d) The initial transverse metacentric height shall not be less than 0,15 metre.

The loading conditions to be considered in order to verify the compliance with the above stability conditions shall include at least those listed in Appendix II of IMO Resolution A.167 (IV).

All existing ships of classes A and B having a length of 24 metres and over shall also comply with the additional criteria as given in IMO Resolution A.167 (IV), Annex, Article 5 (2) and with the Severe Wind and Rolling Criterion as provided in IMO Resolution A.562 (14).

2 Watertight subdivision

NEW CLASS B, C AND D AND EXISTING CLASS B SHIPS:

Every ship shall be subdivided by bulkheads, which shall be watertight up to the bulkhead deck, into watertight compartments the maximum length of which shall be calculated according to the specific requirements given below.

Every other portion of the internal structure which affects the efficiency of the subdivision of the ship shall be watertight.

3 Floodable length (R 4)

NEW CLASS B, C AND D AND EXISTING CLASS B SHIPS:

.1 The floodable length at a given point is the maximum portion of the length of the ship, having its centre at the point in question, which can be flooded, under the assumption for permeability given below, without the ship being submerged beyond the margin line.

.2 In case of a ship not having a continuous bulkhead deck, the floodable length at any point may be determined to an assumed continuous margin line which at no point is less than 76 mm below the top of the deck at side to which the bulkheads concerned and the shell are carried watertight.

.3 Where a portion of an assumed margin line is appreciably below the deck to which bulkheads are carried, the Administration of the flag State may permit a limited relaxation in the watertightness of those portions of the bulkheads which are above the margin line and immediately under the higher deck.

4 Permissible length of compartments (R 6)

NEW CLASS B, C AND D AND EXISTING CLASS B SHIPS:

The maximum permissible length of a compartment having its centre at any point in the ship's length is obtained from the floodable length by multiplying the latter by an appropriate factor called factor of subdivision.

5 Permeability (R 5)

NEW CLASS B, C AND D AND EXISTING CLASS B SHIPS:

The definite assumptions referred to in regulation 3 relate to the permeability of the spaces below the margin line.

In determining the floodable length, the assumed average permeability of the spaces below the margin line shall be as indicated in the table in regulation 8.3.

6 Subdivision factor

The factor of subdivision F shall be as follows:

NEW CLASS B, C AND D SHIPS AND EXISTING CLASS B SHIPS:

>TABLE>

Existing class B ships have to comply with this requirement not later than the date of compliance laid down in regulation II-1/B/8-2, paragraph 2.

7 Special requirements concerning ship subdivision (R 7)

NEW CLASS B, C AND D AND EXISTING CLASS B SHIPS:

.1 Where in a portion or portions of a ship the watertight bulkheads are carried to a higher deck than in the remainder of the ship and it is desired to take advantage of this higher extension of the bulkheads in calculating the floodable length, separate margin lines may be used for each such portion of the ship provided that:

.1 the sides of the ship are extended throughout the ship's length to the deck corresponding to the upper margin line and all openings in the shell plating below this deck throughout the length of the ship are treated as being below a margin line, for the purpose of regulation 15; and

.2 the two compartments adjacent to the 'step` in the bulkhead deck are each within the permissible length corresponding to their respective margin lines, and, in addition, their combined length does not exceed twice the permissible length based on the lower margin line.

.2 A compartment may exceed the permissible length determined by the rules of regulation 4 provided the combined length of each pair of adjacent compartments to which the compartment in question is common does not exceed either the floodable length or twice the permissible length, whichever is the less.

.3 A main transverse bulkhead may be recessed provided that all parts of the recess lie inboard of vertical surfaces on both sides of the ship, situated at a distance from the shell plating equal to one-fifth the breadth of the ship, and measured at right angles to the centreline at the level of the deepest subdivision load line. Any part of a recess which lies outside these limits shall be dealt with as a step in accordance with paragraph 6.

.4 Where a main transverse bulkhead is recessed or stepped, an equivalent plane bulkhead shall be used in determining the subdivision.

.5 Where a main transverse watertight compartment contains local subdivision and the Administration of the Flag State is satisfied that, after any assumed side damage extending over a length of 3,0 metres plus 3 % of the length of the ship or 11 metres, or 10 % of the length of the ship whichever is the less, the whole volume of the main compartment will not be flooded, a proportionate allowance may be made in the permissible length otherwise required for such compartment. In such a case the volume of the effective buoyancy assumed on the undamaged side shall not be greater than that assumed on the damaged side.

Allowance under this sub-paragraph will only be made if such allowance is not likely to prevent compliance with regulation 8.

NEW CLASS B, C AND D SHIPS:

.6 A main transverse bulkhead may be stepped provided that it meets one of the following conditions:

.1 the combined length of the two compartments, separated by the bulkhead in question, does not exceed either 90 % of the floodable length or twice the permissible length, except that, in ships having a subdivision factor equal to 1, the combined length of the two compartments in question shall not exceed the permissible length;

.2 additional subdivision is provided in way of the step to maintain the same level of safety as that secured by a plane bulkhead;

.3 the compartment over which the step extends does not exceed the permissible length corresponding to a margin line taken 76 mm below the step.

.7 In ships of 100 metres in length and upwards, one of the main transverse bulkheads abaft the forepeak shall be fitted at a distance from the forward perpendicular which is not greater than the permissible length.

.8 If the distance between two adjacent main transverse bulkheads, or their equivalent plank bulkheads, or the distance between the transverse planes passing through the nearest stepped portions of the bulkheads, is less than 3,0 metres plus 3 % of the length of the ship, or 11,0 metres, or 10 % of the length of the ship, whichever is less, only one of these bulkheads shall be regarded as forming part of the subdivision of the ship.

.9 Where the required subdivision factor is 0,50, the combined length of any two adjacent compartments shall not exceed the floodable length.

8 Stability in damaged conditions (R 8)

NEW CLASS B, C AND D AND EXISTING CLASS B SHIPS:

.1.1 Sufficient intact stability shall be provided in all service conditions so as to enable the ship to withstand the final stage of flooding of any one main compartment which is required to be within the floodable length.

.1.2 Where two adjacent main compartments are separated by a bulkhead which is stepped under the conditions of regulation 7.6.1, the intact stability shall be adequate to withstand the flooding of those two adjacent compartments.

.1.3 Where the required subdivision factor is 0,50, the intact stability shall be adequate to withstand the flooding of any two adjacent compartments.

.2.1 The requirements of subparagraph .1 shall be determined by calculations which are in accordance with paragraphs .3, .4 and .6 and which take into consideration the proportions and design characteristics of the ship and the arrangement and configuration of the damaged compartments. In making these calculations the ship is to be assumed in the worst anticipated service condition as regards stability.

.2.2 Where it is proposed to fit decks, inner skins or longitudinal bulkheads of sufficient tightness to seriously restrict the flow of water, proper consideration is to be given to such restrictions in the calculations.

.2.3 The stability required in the final condition after damage, and after equalization where provided, shall be determined as follows:

.2.3.1 The positive residual righting lever curve shall have a minimum range of 15 degrees beyond the angle of equilibrium. This range may be reduced to a minimum of 10 degrees, in the case where the area under the righting lever curve is that specified in sub-paragraph .2.3.2 multiplied by the ratio 15/range, where range is expressed in degrees.

.2.3.2 The area under the righting lever curve shall be at least 0,015 m-rad, measured from the angle of equilibrium to the lesser of:

.1 the angle at which progressive flooding occurs;

.2 22 degrees (measured from upright) in the case of one-compartment flooding, or 27 degrees (measured from the upright) in the case of the simultaneous flooding of two adjacent compartments.

.2.3.3 A residual righting lever is to be obtained within the range of positive stability, taking into account the greatest of the following heeling moments:

.1 the crowding of all passengers towards one side;

.2 the launching of all fully loaded davit-launched survival craft on one side;

.3 due to wind pressure:

as calculated for new Class B ships by the formula:

GZ(metres) = >NUM>heeling moment

>DEN>displacement

+ 0,04

However, in no case is the righting lever to be less than 0,10 metres.

.2.3.4 For the purpose of calculating the heeling moments in paragraph .2.3.3 the following assumptions shall be made:

.1 Moment due to crowding of passengers:

.1.1 4 persons per square metre;

.1.2 a mass of 75 kg for each passenger;

.1.3 passengers shall be distributed on available deck areas towards one side of the ship on the decks where muster stations are located and in such a way that they produce the most adverse heeling moment.

.2 Moment due to launching of all fully loaded davit-launched survival craft on one side:

.2.1 all lifeboats and rescue boats fitted on the side to which the ship has heeled after having sustained damage shall be assumed to be swung out fully loaded and ready for lowering;

.2.2 for lifeboats which are arranged to be launched fully loaded from the stowed position, the maximum heeling moment during launching shall be taken;

.2.3 a fully loaded davit-launched liferaft attached to each davit on the side to which the ship has heeled after having sustained damage shall be assumed to be swung out ready for lowering;

.2.4 persons not in the life-saving appliances which are swung out shall not provide either additional heeling or righting moment;

.2.5 life-saving appliances on the side of the ship opposite to the side to which the ship has heeled shall be assumed to be in a stowed position.

.3 Moments due to wind pressure:

.3.1 Class B: a wind pressure of 120 N/m2 to be applied; Classes C and D: a wind pressure of 80 N/m2 to be applied;

.3.2 the area applicable shall be the projected lateral area of the ship above the waterline corresponding to the intact condition;

.3.3 the moment arm shall be the vertical distance from a point at one half of the mean draught corresponding to the intact condition to the centre of gravity of the lateral area.

.2.4 When major progressive flooding occurs, that is when it causes a rapid reduction in the righting lever of 0,04 metres or more, the righting lever curve is to be considered as terminated at the angle the progressive flooding occurs and the range and the area referred to in .2.3.1 and .2.3.2 should be measured to that angle.

.2.5 In cases where the progressive flooding is of limited nature that does not continue unabated and causes an acceptably slow reduction in righting lever of less than 0,04 metres, the remainder of the curve shall be partially truncated by assuming that the progressively flooded space is so flooded from the beginning.

.2.6 In intermediate stages of flooding, the maximum righting lever shall be at least 0,05 metres and the range of positive righting levers shall be at least 7. In all cases, only one breach in the hull and only one free surface need be assumed.

.3 For the purpose of making damaged stability calculations the volume and surface permeabilities shall be as follows:

>TABLE>

Higher surface permeabilities are to be assumed in respect of spaces which, in the vicinity of the damaged waterplane, contain no substantial quantity of accommodation or machinery and spaces which are not generally occupied by any substantial quantity of cargo or stores.

.4 Assumed extent of damage shall be as follows:

.1 longitudinal extent: 3,0 metres plus 3 % of the length of the ship, or 11,0 metres or 10 % of the length of the ship, whichever is the less;

.2 transverse extent (measured inboard from the ship's side, at right angles to the centreline at the level of the deepest subdivision load line): a distance of one fifth of the breadth of the ship; and

.3 vertical extent: from the base line upwards without limit;

.4 if any damage of lesser extent than that indicated in .4.1, .4.2, .4.3 would result in a more severe condition regarding heel or loss of metacentric height, such damage shall be assumed in the calculations.

.5 Unsymmetrical flooding is to be kept to a minimum consistent with efficient arrangements. Where it is necessary to correct large angles of heel, the means adopted shall, where practicable, be self-acting, but in any case where controls to cross-flooding fittings are provided they shall be operable from above the bulkhead deck. For new class B, C and D ships the maximum angle of heel after flooding but before equalization shall not exceed 15 degrees. Where cross-flooding fittings are required the time for equalization shall not exceed 15 minutes. Suitable information concerning the use of cross-flooding fittings shall be supplied to the master of the ship.

.6 The final conditions of the ship after damage and, in the case of unsymmetrical flooding, after equalization measures have been taken, shall be as follows:

.1 in the case of symmetrical flooding there shall be a positive residual metacentric height of at least 50 mm as calculated by the constant displacement method;

.2 in the case of unsymmetrical flooding the angle of heel for one-compartment flooding shall not exceed 7 degrees for Class B ships (new and existing) and 12 degrees for Classes C and D ships (new).

For the simultaneous flooding of two adjacent compartments, a heel of 12 degrees may be permitted for existing and new Class B ships, provided that the subdivision factor is nowhere greater than 0,50 in that part of the ship that is flooded.

.3 in no case shall the margin line be submerged in the final stage of flooding. If it is considered that the margin line may become submerged during an intermediate stage of flooding, the Administration of the flag State may require such investigations and arrangements as it considers necessary for the safety of the ship.

.7 The master of the ship shall be supplied with the data necessary to maintain sufficient intact stability under service conditions to enable the ship to withstand the critical damage. In the case of ships requiring cross-flooding the master of the ship shall be informed of the conditions of stability on which the calculations of heel are based and be warned that excessive heeling might result should the ship sustain damage when in a less favourable condition.

.8 The data referred to in paragraph .7 to enable the master to maintain sufficient intact stability shall include information which indicates the maximum permissible height of the ship's centre of gravity above keel (KG), or alternatively the minimum permissible metacentric height (GM), for a range of draughts or displacements sufficient to include all service conditions. The information shall show the influence of various trims taking into account the operational limits.

.9 Each ship shall have scales of draughts marked clearly at the bow and stern. In the case where the draught marks are not located where they are easily readable, or operational constraints for a particular trade make it difficult to read the draught marks, then the ship shall also be fitted with a reliable draught indicating system by which the bow and stern draughts can be determined.

.10 On completion of loading of the ship and prior to its departure, the master shall determine the ship's trim and stability and also ascertain and record that the ship is in compliance with stability criteria in the relevant regulations. The determination of the ship's stability shall always be made by calculation. An electronic loading and stability computer or equivalent means may be used for this purpose.

.11 No relaxation from the requirements for damage stability may be considered by the Administration of the flag State unless it is shown that the intact metacentric height in any service condition necessary to meet these requirements is excessive for the service intended.

.12 Relaxations from the requirements for damage stability shall be permitted only in exceptional cases and subject to the condition that the Administration of the Flag State is to be satisfied that the proportions, arrangements and other characteristics of the ship are the most favourable to stability after damage which can practically and reasonably be adopted in the particular circumstances.

8-1 Stability of ro-ro passenger ships in damaged conditions (R 8-1)

EXISTING CLASS B RO-RO PASSENGER SHIPS:

.1 Existing Class B ro-ro passenger ships shall comply with regulation 8, not later than the date of the first periodical survey after the date of compliance prescribed below, according to the value of A/Amax as defined in the Annex of the Calculation Procedure to Assess the Survivability Characteristics of Existing Ro-Ro Passenger Ships When Using a Simplified Method Based Upon Resolution A.265 (VIII), developed by the Maritime Safety Committee at its fifty-ninth session in June 1991 (MSC/Circ.574):

>TABLE>

8-2 Special requirements for ro-ro passenger ships carrying 400 persons or more (R 8-2)

NEW CLASS B, C AND D AND EXISTING CLASS B RO-RO PASSENGER SHIPS:

Notwithstanding the provisions of regulation II-1/B/8 and II-1/B/8-1:

.1 New ro-ro passenger ships certified to carry 400 persons or more shall comply with the provisions of paragraph .2.3 of regulation II-1/B/8, assuming the damage applied anywhere within the ship's length L; and

.2 Existing ro-ro passenger ships certified to carry 400 persons or more shall comply with the requirements of paragraph 1 not later than the date of the first periodical survey after the date of compliance prescribed in sub-paragraph .2.1, .2.2 or .2.3 which occurs the latest:

.2.1 >TABLE>

.2.2 >TABLE>

.2.3 Age of the ship equal or greater than 20 years:

where the age of the ship means the time counted from the date on which the keel was laid or the date on which it was at a similar stage of construction or from the date on which the ship was converted to a ro-ro passenger ship.

9 Peak and machinery space bulkheads (R 10)

NEW CLASS B, C AND D AND EXISTING CLASS B SHIPS:

.1 A forepeak or collision bulkhead shall be fitted which shall be watertight up to the bulkhead deck. This bulkhead shall be located at a distance from the forward perpendicular of not less than 5 % of the length of the ship and not more than 3 metres plus 5 % of the length of the ship.

.2 Where any part of the ship below the waterline extends forward of the forward perpendicular, e.g. a bulbous bow, the distances stipulated in paragraph 1 shall be measured from a point either:

.1 at the mid-length of such extension; or

.2 at a distance 1,5 % of the length of the ship forward of the forward perpendicular; or

.3 at a distance 3 metres forward of the forward perpendicular, whichever gives the smallest measurement.

.3 Where a long forward superstructure is fitted, the forepeak or collision bulkhead shall be extended weathertight to the next full deck above the bulkhead deck. The extension shall be so arranged as to preclude the possibility of the bow door causing damage to it in the case of damage to, or detachment of, a bow door.

.4 The extension required in paragraph 3 need not be fitted directly above the bulkhead below provided all parts of the extension are not located forward of the forward limit specified in paragraph 1 or in paragraph 2.

However in existing Class B ships:

.1 where a sloping loading ramp forms part of the extension of the collision bulkhead above the bulkhead deck, the part of the ramp which is more than 2,3 metres above the bulkhead deck may extend no more than 1,0 metre forward of the forward limits specified in paragraphs .1 and .2;

.2 where the existing ramp does not comply with the requirements for acceptance as an extension to the collision bulkhead and the position of the ramp prevents the siting of such extension within the limits specified in paragraph .1 or paragraph .2, the extension may be sited within a limited distance aft of the aft limit specified in paragraph .1 or paragraph .2. The limited distance aft should be nor more than is necessary to ensure non-interference with the ramp. The extension to the collision bulkhead shall open forward and comply with the requirements of paragraph .3 and shall be so arranged as to preclude the possibility of the ramp causing damage to it in the case of damage to, or detachment of, the ramp.

.5 Ramps not meeting the above requirements shall be disregarded as an extension to the collision bulkhead.

.6 In existing Class B ships, the requirements of paragraph .3 and .4 shall apply not later than the date of the first periodical survey after the date referred to in Article 14 (1) of this Directive.

.7 An afterpeak bulkhead, and bulkheads dividing the machinery space, from the cargo and passenger spaces forward and aft, shall also be fitted and made watertight up to the bulkhead deck. The afterpeak bulkhead may, however, be stepped below the bulkhead deck, provided the degree of safety of the ship as regards subdivision is not thereby diminished.

.8 In all cases stern tubes shall be enclosed in watertight spaces. The stern gland shall be situated in a watertight shaft tunnel or other watertight space separate from the stern tube compartment and of such volume that, if flooded by leakage through the stern gland, the margin line will not be submerged.

10 Double bottoms (R 12)

NEW CLASS B, C AND D AND EXISTING CLASS B SHIPS:

.1 A double bottom shall be fitted extending from the forepeak bulkhead to the afterpeak bulkhead as far as this is practicable and compatible with the design and proper working of the ship.

.1 In ships of 50 metres and upwards but less than 61 metres in length a double bottom shall be fitted at least from the machinery space to the forepeak bulkhead, or as near thereto as practicable;

.2 In ships of 61 metres and upwards but less than 76 metres in length a double bottom shall be fitted at least outside the machinery space, and shall extend to the fore and after peak bulkheads, or as near thereto as practicable;

.3 In ships of 76 metres in length and upwards, a double bottom shall be fitted amidships, and shall extend to the fore and after peak bulkheads, or as near thereto as practicable.

.2 Where a double bottom is required to be fitted its depth shall comply with the standards of a recognized organization and the inner bottom shall be continued out to the ship's sides in such a manner as to protect the bottom to the turn of the bilge. Such protection will be deemed satisfactory if the line of intersection of the outer edge of the margin plate with the bilge plating is not lower at any part than a horizontal plane passing through the point of intersection with the frame line amidships of a transverse diagonal line inclined at 25 degrees to the base line and cutting it at a point one-half the ship's moulded breadth from the middle line.

.3 Small wells constructed in the double bottom in connection with drainage arrangements of holds, etc., shall not extend downwards more than necessary. The depth of the well shall in no case be more than the depth less 460 mm of the double bottom at the centreline, nor shall the well extend below the horizontal plane referred to in paragraph .2. A well extending to the outer bottom is, however, permitted at the after end of the shaft tunnel. Other wells (e.g. for lubricating oil under main engines) may be permitted by the Administration of the flag State if satisfied that the arrangements give protection equivalent to that afforded by a double bottom complying with this regulation.

.4 A double bottom need not be fitted in way of watertight compartments of moderate size used exclusively for the carriage of liquids, provided the safety of the ship, in the event of bottom or side damage, is not, in the opinion of the Administration of the flag State, thereby impaired.

.5 The Administration of the flag State may permit a double bottom to be dispensed with in any part of the ship which is subdivided by a factor not exceeding 0,5, it satisfied that the fitting of a double bottom in that part would not be compatible with the design and proper working of the ship.

11 Assigning, marking and recording of subdivision load lines (R 13)

NEW CLASS B, C AND D AND EXISTING CLASS B SHIPS:

.1 In order that the required degree of subdivision shall be maintained, a load line corresponding to the approved subdivision draught shall be assigned and marked on the ship's sides amidships. A ship having spaces which are specially adapted for the accommodation of passengers and the carriage of cargo alternatively may, if owners desire, have one ore more additional load lines assigned and marked to correspond with the subdivision draughts which the Administration of the flag State may approve for alternative service conditions.

.2 The subdivision load lines assigned and marked shall be recorded in the Passenger Ship Safety Certificate, and shall be identified by the notation C.1 if there is only one subdivision load line.

If there is more than one subdivision load line, the alternative conditions shall be identified by the notations C.2, C.3, C.4 etc. (1).

.3 The freeboard corresponding to each of these load lines shall be measured at the same position and from the same deck line as the freeboards determined in accordance with the International Convention on Load Lines in force.

.4 The freeboard corresponding to each approved subdivision load line and the conditions of service for which it is approved, shall be clearly indicated on the Passenger Ship Safety Certificate.

.5 In no case shall any subdivision load line mark be placed above the deepest load line in salt water as determined by the strength of the ship or the International Convention on Load Lines in force.

.6 Whatever may be the position of the subdivision load line marks, a ship shall in no case be loaded so as to submerge the load line mark appropriate to the season and locality as determined in accordance with the International Convention on Load Lines in force.

.7 A ship shall in no case be so loaded that the subdivision load line mark appropriate to the particular voyage and condition of service is submerged.

12 Construction and initial testing of watertight bulkheads, etc. (R 14)

NEW CLASS B, C AND D AND EXISTING CLASS B SHIPS:

.1 Each watertight subdivision bulkhead, whether transverse or longitudinal, shall be constructed in such a manner that it shall be capable of supporting, with a proper margin of resistance, the pressure due to the maximum head of water which it might have to sustain in the event of damage to the ship but at least the pressure due to a head of water up to the margin line. The construction of these bulkheads shall be in accordance with the standards of a recognized organization.

.2.1 Steps and recesses in bulkheads shall be watertight and as strong as the bulkhead at the place where each occurs.

.2.2 Where frames or beams pass through a watertight deck or bulkhead, such deck or bulkhead shall be made structurally watertight without the use of wood or cement.

.3 Testing main compartments by filling them with water is not compulsory. When testing by filling with water is not carried out, a hose test is compulsory; this test shall be carried out in the most advanced stage of the fitting out of the ship. In any case, a thorough inspection of the watertight bulkheads shall be carried out.

.4 The forepeak, double bottoms (including duct keels) and inner skins shall be tested with water to a head corresponding to the requirements of paragraph .1.

.5 Tanks which are intended to hold liquids, and which form part of the subdivision of the ship, shall be tested for tightness with water to a head up to the deepest subdivision load line or to a head corresponding to two-thirds of the depth from the top of keel to the margin line in way of the tanks, whichever is the greater, provided that in no case shall the test head be less than 0,9 metres above the top of the tank; if testing by water is impracticable, air leak testing while the tanks are subjected to an air pressure of not more than 0,14 bar may be accepted.

.6 The tests referred to in paragraphs .4 and .5 are for the purpose of ensuring that the subdivision structural arrangements are watertight and are not to be regarded as a test of the fitness of any compartment for the storage of oil fuel or for other special purposes for which a test of a superior character may be required depending on the height to which the liquid has access in the tank or its connections.

13 Openings in watertight bulkheads (R 15)

NEW CLASS B, C AND D AND EXISTING CLASS B SHIPS:

.1 The number of openings in watertight bulkheads shall be reduced to the minimum compatible with the design and proper working of the ship; satisfactory means shall be provided for closing these openings.

.2.1 Where pipes, scuppers, electrical cables etc., are carried through watertight subdivision bulkheads, arrangements shall be made to ensure the watertight integrity of the bulkheads.

.2.2 Valves not forming part of a piping system shall not be permitted in watertight subdivision bulkheads.

.2.3 Lead or other heat sensitive materials shall not be used in systems which penetrate watertight subdivision bulkheads, where deterioration of such systems in the event of fire would impair the watertight integrity of the bulkheads.

.3.1 No doors, manholes, or access openings are permitted:

.1 in the collision bulkhead below the margin line;

.2 in watertight transverse bulkheads dividing a cargo space from an adjoining cargo space, except as provided for in paragraph 10.1 and in regulation 14.

.3.2 Except as provided in paragraph .3.3 the collision bulkhead may be pierced below the margin line by no more than one pipe for dealing with fluid in the fore peak tank, provided that the pipe is fitted with a screw-down valve capable of being operated from above the bulkhead deck, the valve chest being secured inside the fore peak to the collision bulkhead. However the fitting of this valve on the afterside of the collision bulkhead may be accepted provided that the valve is readily accessible under all service conditions and the space in which it is located is not a cargo space.

.3.3 If the fore peak is divided to hold two different kinds of liquids the collision bulkhead may be pierced below the margin line by two pipes each of which is fitted as required by paragraph .3.1, provided there is no practical alternative to the fitting of such a second pipe and that, having regard to the additional subdivision provided in the forepeak, the safety of the ship is maintained.

.4 Within spaces containing the main and auxiliary propulsion machinery including boilers serving the needs of propulsion not more than one door apart from the doors to shaft tunnels may be fitted in each main transverse bulkhead. Where two or more shafts are fitted the tunnels shall be connected by an intercommunicating passage. There shall be only one door between the machinery space and the tunnel spaces where two shafts are fitted and only two doors where there are more than two shafts. All these doors shall be of the sliding type and shall be so located as to have their sills as high as practicable. The hand gear for operating these doors from above the bulkhead deck shall be situated outside the spaces containing the machinery.

.5.1 EXISTING CLASS B SHIPS AND NEW CLASS B, C AND D SHIPS OF LESS THAN 24 METRES IN LENGTH:

Watertight doors shall be sliding doors or hinged doors or doors of: an equivalent type. Plate doors secured only by bolts and doors required to be closed by dropping or by the action of a dropping weight are not permitted.

NEW CLASS B, C AND D SHIPS OF 24 METRES IN LENGTH AND OVER:

Watertight doors, except as provided in paragraph 10.1 or regulation 14, shall be power-operated sliding doors complying with the requirements of paragraph 7 capable of being closed simultaneously from the central operating console at the navigating bridge in not more than 60 seconds with the ship in upright position.

.5.2 EXISTING CLASS B SHIPS AND NEW CLASS B, C AND D SHIPS OF LESS THAN 24 METRES IN LENGTH:

Sliding doors may be either:

- hand-operated only, or

- power-operated as well as hand-operated.

NEW CLASS B, C AND D SHIPS OF 24 METRES IN LENGTH AND OVER:

In ships where the total number of watertight doors is not more than two and these doors are situated in the machinery space or in the bulkheads bounding such space, the Administration of the Flag State may allow these two doors to be hand-operated only. Where hand-operated sliding doors are fitted, such doors are to be closed before the vessel leaves its berth on a passenger carrying voyage and shall be kept closed during navigation.

NEW CLASS B, C AND D SHIPS AND EXISTING CLASS B SHIPS:

.5.3 The means of operation whether by power or by hand of any sliding watertight door whether power-operated or not shall be capable of closing the door with the ship listed to 15 degrees either way. Consideration shall also be given to the forces which may act on either side of the doors as may be experienced when water is flowing through the opening applying a static head equivalent to a water height of at least 1 metre above the sill on the centreline of the door.

NEW CLASS B, C AND D SHIPS OF 24 METRES IN LENGTH AND OVER:

.5.4 Watertight door controls, including hydraulic piping and electric cables, shall be kept as close as practicable to the bulkhead in which the doors are fitted, in order to minimize the likelihood of them being involved in any damage which the ship may sustain. The positioning of watertight doors and their controls shall be such that if the ship sustains damage within one fifth of the breadth of the ship, such distance being measured at right angles to the centreline at the level of the deepest subdivision load line, the operation of the watertight doors clear of the damaged portion of the ship is not impaired.

.5.5 All power-operated and hand-operated sliding watertight doors shall be provided with means of indication which will show at all remote operating positions whether the doors are open or closed. Remote operating positions shall only be at the navigating bridge as required by paragraph 7.1.5 and the location where hand operation above the bulkhead deck is required by paragraph 7.1.4.

EXISTING CLASS B SHIPS AND NEW CLASS B, C AND D SHIPS OF LESS THAN 24 METRES IN LENGTH:

.5.6 Watertight doors which do not comply with paragraphs .5.1 to .5.5 shall be closed before the voyage commences, and shall be kept closed during navigation; the time of opening such doors in port and of closing them before the ship leaves port shall be entered in the log-book.

NEW CLASS B, C AND D SHIPS OF LESS THAN 24 METRES IN LENGTH AND EXISTING CLASS B SHIPS:

.6.1 Hand-operated sliding doors may have a horizontal or vertical motion. It shall be possible to operate the mechanism at the door itself from either side, and from an accessible position above the bulkhead deck, with an all round crank motion, or some other movement providing the same guarantee of safety and of an approved type. When operating a hand gear the time necessary for the complete closure of the door with the vessel upright, shall not exceed 90 seconds.

.6.2 EXISTING CLASS B SHIPS: Power-operated sliding doors may have a vertical or horizontal motion. If a door is power-operated from a central control, the gearing shall be so arranged that the door can also be operated by power at the door itself from both sides. Local control handles in connection with the power gear shall be provided on each side of the bulkhead and shall be so arranged as to enable persons passing through the doorway to hold both handles in the open position without being able to set the closing mechanism in operation accidentally. Power-operated sliding doors shall be provided with hand gear workable at the door itself on either side and from an accessible position above the bulkhead deck, with an all round crank motion or some other movement providing the same guarantee of safety and of an approved type. Provision shall be made to give warnings by sound signal that the door has begun to close and will continue to sound until it is completely closed. Additionally, in areas of high ambient noise an audible alarm shall be required to be supplemented by an intermittent visual signal at the door.

NEW CLASS B, C AND D SHIPS OF 24 METRES IN LENGTH AND OVER:

.7.1 Each power-operated sliding watertight door:

.1 shall have a vertical or horizontal motion

.2 shall, subject to paragraph 11, be normally limited to a maximum clear width of 1,2 metres. The Administration of the Flag State may permit larger doors only to the extent considered necessary for the effective operation of the ship provided that other safety measures, including the following, are taken into consideration:

.2.1 special consideration shall be given to the strength of the door and its closing appliances in order to prevent leakages;

.2.2 the door shall be located outside the damage zone B/5;

.2.3 the door shall be kept closed when the ship is at sea, except for limited periods when absolutely necessary as determined by the Administration of the Flag State.

.3 shall be fitted with the necessary equipment to open and close the door using electric power, hydraulic power, or any other form of power that is acceptable to the Administration of the Flag State;

.4 shall be provided with an individual hand-operated mechanism. It shall be possible to open and close the door by hand at the door itself from either side, and in addition, close the door from an accessible position above the bulkhead deck with an all round crank motion or some other movement providing the same degree of safety acceptable to the Administration of the Flag State. Direction of rotation or other movement is to be clearly indicated on all operating positions. The time necessary for the complete closure of the door, when operated by hand gear, shall not exceed 90 seconds with the ship in upright position;

.5 shall be provided with controls for opening and closing the door by power from both sides of the door and also for closing the door by power from the central operating console at the navigating bridge;

.6 shall be provided with an audible alarm, distinct from any other alarm in the area, which will sound whenever the door is closed remotely by power and which shall sound for at least 5 seconds but no more than 10 seconds before the door begins to move and shall continue sounding until the door is completely closed. In the case of remote hand operation it is sufficient for the audible alarm to sound only when the door is moving. Additionally, in passenger areas and areas of high ambient noise, the Administration of the Flag State may require the audible alarm to be supplemented by an intermittent visual signal at the door; and

.7 shall have an approximately uniform rate of closure under power. The closure time, from the time the door begins to move to the time it reaches the completely closed position, shall in no case be less than 20 seconds and no more than 40 seconds with the ship in upright position.

.7.2 The electrical power required for power-operated sliding watertight doors shall be supplied from the emergency switchboard either directly or by a dedicated distribution board situated above the bulkhead deck; the associated control, indication and alarm circuits shall be supplied from the emergency switchboard either directly or by a dedicated distribution board situated above the bulkhead deck and be capable of being automatically supplied by the transitional source of emergency electrical power in the event of failure of either the main or emergency source of electrical power.

.7.3 Power-operated sliding watertight doors shall have either:

.1 a centralized hydraulic system with two independent power sources each consisting of a motor and pump capable of simultaneously closing all doors. In addition, there shall be for the whole installation hydraulic accumulators of sufficient capacity to operate all the doors at least three times, i. e. closed-open-closed, against an adverse list of 15°. This operating cycle shall be capable of being carried out when the accumulator is at the pump cut-in pressure. The fluid used shall be chosen considering the temperature liable to be encountered by the installation during its service. The power operating system shall be designed to minimize the possibility of having a single failure in the hydraulic piping adversely affect the operation of more than one door. The hydraulic system shall be provided with a low-level alarm for hydraulic fluid reservoirs serving the power-operated system and a low gas pressure alarm or other effective means of monitoring loss of stored energy in hydraulic accumulators. These alarms are to be audible and visual and shall be situated on the central operating console at the navigating bridge; or

.2 an independent hydraulic system for each door with each power source consisting of a motor and pump capable of opening and closing the door. In addition, there shall be a hydraulic accumulator of sufficient capacity to operate the door at least three times, i. e. closed - open-closed, against an adverse list of 15°. This operating cycle shall be capable of being carried out when the accumulators at the pump cut-in pressure. The fluid used shall be chosen considering the temperatures liable to be encountered by the installation during its service. A low gas pressure group alarm or other effective means of monitoring loss of stored energy in hydraulic accumulators shall be provided at the central operating console on the navigating bridge. Loss of stored energy indication at each local operating position shall also be provided; or

.3 An independent electrical system and motor for each door with each power source consisting of a motor capable of opening and closing the door. The power source shall be capable of being automatically supplied by the transitional source of emergency electrical power in the event of failure of either the main or emergency source of electrical power and with sufficient capacity to operate the door at least three times, i. e. closed-open-closed, against an adverse list of 15°.

For the systems specified in 7.3.1, 7.3.2 and 7.3.3, provision should be made as follows:

Power systems for power-operated watertight sliding doors shall be separate from any other power system. A single failure in the electric or hydraulic power-operated systems excluding the hydraulic actuator shall not prevent the hand operation of any door.

.7.4 Control handles shall be provided at each side of the bulkhead at a minimum height of 1,6 metres above the floor and shall be so arranged as to enable persons passing through the doorway to hold both handles in the open position without being able to set the power closing mechanism in operation accidentally. The direction of movement of the handles in opening and closing the door shall be in the direction of door movement and shall be clearly indicated.

Hydraulic control handles for watertight doors in accommodation spaces shall, if only one action is required to start the door's closing movement, be so placed that children cannot operate them, e.g. behind panel doors with bolts placed at least 170 cm above deck level.

NEW CLASS B, C AND D SHIPS AND EXISTING CLASS B SHIPS OF 24 METRES IN LENGTH AND OVER:

On both sides of the doors there shall be a plate with instructions as to how the door system is to be operated. On both sides o