2.8.3.5 ENGINE AND PUMP ROOMS
The engine and pump rooms, including workshops, must be safe working environments.
A permanent state of cleanliness is the key to preventing accidents. Careful
maintenance in accordance with the manufacturer’s and the Company’s
instructions is essential to avoid malfunctions or breakdowns which may affect
the safety of the vessel, the crew, the cargo and the marine environment.
The following steps should therefore be taken
these areas should always be kept clean and free from spilt oil
the bilge under the engine room floor should be kept clean and free
from spilt oil
leaks should be rectified immediately
completion of repairs should be recorded in the relevant log and Company
forms according to the SMS.
The Master should satisfy himself that there are no by-passes of oily water-separation
pipes. The next inspection by a port State control officer will undoubtedly
discover such irregularity and appropriate steps will be taken by the authorities,
not only causing delay to the vessel and incurring additional costs, but will
also result in further investigations and possibly criminal prosecutions with
fines or even imprisonment being imposed against the Master, the Chief Engineer
and the person having arranged the bypass.