Bilge Systems
The bilge and ballast pumping system must be able to drain any watertight compartment under all service conditions.
- It is good practice to install at least two power driven bilge pumps – ensuring that each has a separate power supply. Provided that a ballast pump or general service pump has sufficient capacity, it can be used as an independent bilge pump.
- At least one of these systems should be located outside of the engine room space.
- The bilge and ballast system must be designed and operated to prevent sea water or ballast water passing into holds or machinery spaces, or moving from one watertight compartment to another.
- Keep bilge water to a minimum at all times. Keep bilge pumps in good working order, and test these systems on a regular basis, even if they are not in regular use.
- Close all bilge sea-cocks as soon as the bilges are pumped. Don’t leave sea-cocks in the open position while the vessel is unattended, or the crew is sleeping. Ensure all sea-cocks are clearly labelled and colour-coded, indicating their use.
- Inspect suction screens regularly – and kept clear of any obstructions. Keep bilges free of oil.
- High water level switch sending units should be installed to activate alarms if water rises beyond pre-set levels. Check these alarms to ensure that they are working before each trip.
- Fit all bilge lines that pierce a collision bulkhead with a screw-down valve at the bulkhead. Accessibility of this valve is critically important – it must either be capable of remote control closure from the weather deck or befitted on the after side of the bulkhead.
- Operation of bilge pumps is a specialised task, and should be left to the Skipper, engineer or other competent person. However, each crewmember should be instructed in the operation of bilge pumps in case of emergency. This should be practiced on a regular basis.
