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Code of Practice
10 Bilge Pumping
10.1 Vessels of 15 metres in Length and Over or Carrying 15 or More Persons
10.1.1 A vessel should have an efficient bilge pumping system consisting of at least one hand bilge pump and one engine driven or independent power bilge pump, with suction pipes so arranged that any compartment can be drained when the vessel is heeled up to an angle of 10 degrees. Pumps provided should be situated in not less than two separate spaces.
10.1.2 When considered necessary to protect the bilge suction line from obstruction, an efficient strum box should be provided.
10.2 Vessels of Less than 15 metres in Length and Carrying 14 or Less Persons
10.2.1 A vessel should be provided with at least two bilge pumps, one of which may be power driven. One pump should be situated in the cockpit or on the weather deck and one pump in the accommodation.
10.2.2 A bilge pump should be capable of being operated with all hatchways and companionways closed.
10.2.3 When considered necessary to protect a bilge suction line from obstruction, an efficient strum box should be provided.
10.3 Bilge Alarm
10.3.1 When propulsion machinery is fitted in an enclosed watertight compartment, a bilge level alarm should be fitted.
10.3.2 The alarm should provide an audible warning and the control position.
