SOLAS-2012

Chapter II-1, Part B-2
SOLAS 74/78
page 31/86
Longitudinal
extent
Transverse
extent
Vertical extent,
measured from
the keel line
For 0.3 L from the forward
perpendicular of the ship
Any other part of the ship
1/3 L 2/3 or 14.5 m, whichever is less 1/3 L 2/3 or 14.5 m, whichever is less
B/6 or 10 m, whichever is less B/6 or 5 m, whichever is less
B/20 or 2 m, whichever is less B/20 or 2 m, whichever is less
.3 If any damage of a lesser extent than the maximum damage specified in .2 would result in a
more severe condition, such damage should be considered.
9 In case of large lower holds in passenger ships, the Administration may require an increased double
bottom height of not more than B/10 or 3 m, whichever is less, measured from the keel line. Alternatively,
bottom damages may be calculated for these areas, in accordance with paragraph 8, but assuming an
increased vertical extent.
Regulation 10
Construction of watertight bulkheads
1 Each watertight subdivision bulkhead, whether transverse or longitudinal, shall be constructed having
scantlings as specified in regulation 2.17. In all cases, watertight subdivision bulkheads shall be capable of
supporting at least the pressure due to a head of water up to the bulkhead deck.
2 Steps and recesses in watertight bulkheads shall be as strong as the bulkhead at the place where
each occurs.
Regulation 11
Initial testing of watertight bulkheads, etc.
1 Testing watertight spaces not intended to hold liquids and cargo holds intended to hold ballast by filling
them with water is not compulsory. When testing by filling with water is not carried out, a hose test shall be
carried out where practicable. This test shall be carried out in the most advanced stage of the fitting out of the
ship. Where a hose test is not practicable because of possible damage to machinery, electrical equipment
insulation or outfitting items, it may be replaced by a careful visual examination of welded connections,
supported where deemed necessary by means such as a dye penetrant test or an ultrasonic leak test or an
equivalent test. In any case a thorough inspection of the watertight bulkheads shall be carried out.
2 The forepeak, double bottom (including duct keels) and inner skins shall be tested with water to a
head corresponding to the requirements of regulation 10.1.
3 Tanks which are intended to hold liquids, and which form part of the watertight subdivision of the ship,
shall be tested for tightness and structural strength with water to a head corresponding to its design pressure.
The water head is in no case to be less than the top of the air pipes or to a level of 2.4 m above the top of the
tank, whichever is the greater.
4 The tests referred to in paragraphs 2 and 3 are for the purpose of ensuring that the subdivision
structural arrangements are watertight and are not to be regarded as a test of the fitness of any compartment
for the storage of oil fuel or for other special purposes for which a test of a superior character may be required
depending on the height to which the liquid has access in the tank or its connections.