MIN 631 (M+F) Construction and Outfit Standards for Fishing Vessels of 15m Length Overall to Less than 24m Registered Length - Bilge Pumping Systems
Updated 29 September 2022
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1. Introduction/Background
1.1 A clarification of section 7.5 of the Seafish Construction Standards in relation to bilge pumping rules became effective on 1st March 2019. Details of the clarification are provided below.
1.2 As of 21st July 2020, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) will undertake the survey of new building fishing vessels of less that 24m registered length to Fishing Vessel Construction and Outfit Standards, following the decision of Seafish to cease undertaking this work.
1.3 As part of a smooth transition, the MCA will continue to implement the amendments announced by Seafish via their SFIN (Seafish Information Note) publications regarding the applicable construction standards. This MIN transfers SFIN 19 into the MCA publication portfolio.
2. Bilge Pumping Systems
2.1 As of 1st March 2019, the following interpretation should have been applied, and continues to be applicable, in relation to bilge pumping rules on new fishing vessels 15m Overall to 24m Registered Length, built to the Seafish Construction Standards and, from 21st July 2020, to vessels built in accordance with MGN 629 section 7.5:
2.1.1 The option allowed for peak compartments to have a drain cock fitted for drainage in lieu of a bilge suction shall only apply to actual fore peak compartments forward of the foremost watertight bulkhead. In a typical vessel with a transom stern, the aftermost compartment in the hull shall not be classed as a peak compartment in respect of the bilge pumping requirements.
Explanation
Historically, Seafish accepted the aftermost compartment below the weather deck (often the accommodation space) to be a peak space, thereby only requiring a drain cock to be fitted to allow bilge drainage into an adjacent compartment. However, this is no longer the case. In a typical vessel with a transom stern arrangement, the aftermost compartment below the weather deck will no longer be classed as a peak compartment in relation to the bilge pumping requirements. These compartments will now require bilge pumping facilities, and bilge level alarm facilities, in accordance with the Standards (and relevant MCA code of practice), just as other similar non-peak compartments below the weather deck are required to have.
2.2 Where information in this notice contradicts the Seafish Construction Standards or MGN 629, this notice is to take priority.
3. More Information
Fishing Safety Team
Maritime and Coastguard Agency,
Bay 2/22
Spring Place,
105 Commercial Road,
Southampton,
SO15 1EG
Tel: +44 (0) 203 817 2454
e-mail: fishing@mcga.gov.uk