1 Bilge wells in periodically unattended machinery
spaces shall be located and monitored in such a way that the accumulation
of liquids is detected at normal angles of trim and heel, and shall
be large enough to accommodate easily the normal drainage during the
unattended period.
2 Where the bilge pumps are capable of being started
automatically, means shall be provided to indicate when the influx
of liquid is greater than the pump capacity or when the pump is operating
more frequently than would normally be expected. In these cases, smaller
bilge wells to cover a reasonable period of time may be permitted.
Where automatically controlled bilge pumps are provided, special attention
shall be given to oil pollution prevention requirements.
3 The location of the controls of any valve serving
a sea inlet, a discharge below the waterline or a bilge injection
system shall be so sited as to allow adequate time for operation in
case of influx of water to the space, having regard to the time likely
to be required in order to reach and operate such controls. If the
level to which the space could become flooded with the ship in the
fully loaded condition so requires, arrangements shall be made to
operate the controls from a position above such level.