8A ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS - VESSELS OF LESS THAN 500 GT

Objective:- This section outlines the minimum requirements for Electrical Classification, which are to be in accordance with the requirements of one of the Classification Societies defined in the National Annex, and should cover the minimum aspects defined below. For sailing vessels, this should also cover the elements necessary to ensure safety of the vessel including control of the sails, where appropriate. Existing Vessels which are not already Classed should be taken into Class, however alternative arrangements for Short Range operation may be agreed by the Administration.

8A.1 Installation

8A.1.1 Particular attention should be paid to the provision of overload and short circuit protection of all circuits, except engine starting circuits supplied from batteries.

8A.1.2 Electrical devices working in potentially hazardous areas, into which petroleum vapour or other hydrocarbon gas may leak, should be of a type certified safe for the hazard.

8A.2 Lighting

8A.2.1 Lighting circuits, including those for emergency lighting, should be distributed through the spaces so that a total blackout cannot occur due to failure of a single protective device

8A.2.2 An emergency source of lighting should be provided which should be independent of the general lighting system. This source should be sufficient for up to 3 hours duration and should include navigation light supplies. The lighting is to provide sufficient lighting for personnel to escape from the accommodation or working spaces to their muster station, launch and board survival craft. Additionally, this light, supplemented by torches, should be sufficient to permit emergency repairs to machinery, etc. The emergency source of power should be independent of the main power supply, external to the engine room, and with separate distribution.

8A.3 Batteries

Batteries of a type suitable for marine use and not liable to leakage should be used. Areas in which batteries are stowed should be provided with adequate ventilation to prevent an accumulation of gas which is emitted from batteries of all types. Reference should also be made to Section 14.1.5.