Type and Location:

• Usually a diesel-driven internal combustion engine connected to an alternator.
• Installed in a separate compartment, typically on the upper deck or superstructure, and outside the main machinery space to ensure isolation from hazards such as fire or flooding in the engine room.

Automatic and Manual Operation:

• Equipped with an automatic starting system, which activates within 45 seconds of main power failure.
• A manual start option must also be available in case of automatic system failure.

Fuel Supply:

• Supplied by a dedicated day tank, ensuring at least 18 hours (for Cargo ships) and 36 hours (for passenger ships) of continuous operation under full emergency load conditions.

Emergency Switchboard:

• The generator supplies power to an emergency switchboard, from which electrical power is distributed to essential services such as
  • Emergency lighting
  • Fire detection and alarm systems
  • Emergency communication systems
  • Steering gear and navigation equipment
  • Fire pumps and bilge pumps

  Battery Backup:

  • In addition to the generator, emergency batteries are provided to supply immediate power to lighting, communication, and control systems during the delay in generator starting.

  Capacity:

  • The emergency generator is sized adequately to supply simultaneous power to all essential systems required for the safety of the ship and personnel during emergencies.
  Part (b)

  List of Essential Services That Must Be Supplied Simultaneously1. Emergency Lighting

  • Navigational bridge
  • Engine control room and Engine room
  • Escape routes and stairways
  • Emergency generator room
  • Emergency lights throughout vital areas

  2. Navigation and Control Equipment

  • At least one steering gear motor
  • Navigation lights and signal lights
  • Bridge control and monitoring instruments
  • Navigation equipment

  3. Communication Systems

  • Internal communication systems (PA system, intercom)
  • External communication systems (GMDSS)
  • Emergency alarms (general, fire, CO₂ warning)

  4. Fire Detection and Firefighting Systems

  • Emergency fire pump or fire pumps
  • Sprinkler / Hi-fog / water spray systems
  • Fire detection panels and fire detectors

  5. Emergency Machinery and Systems

  • Emergency air compressor
  • BA (Breathing Apparatus) compressor
  • CO₂ room exhaust fan
  • One engine room vent fan
  • Emergency generator fuel oil pumps and ventilation
  • Engine room pumps and systems required for first start from dead ship condition
  • Essential ventilation and fuel pumps for emergency equipment

  6. Lifesaving Equipment

  • Lifeboat davits
  • Watertight door control systems
  • Bilge alarm systems

  7. Electrical and Monitoring Systems

  • Emergency battery charging circuits
  • Battery chargers
  • UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) system
  • Engine room alarm system
  Part (c)

  Periodic Testing of Emergency Installation

  1. Weekly Testing (No Load / Manual Start)

  • The emergency generator is started manually and run without load.
  • Primary and secondary starting systems are tested (if available).
  • Parameters such as voltage, frequency, oil level, and fuel level are checked.
  • Exhaust temperature and sump oil level are monitored.
  • The automatic starting system is tested by simulating a power failure to verify functionality.

  2. Monthly Testing (Simulated Automatic Start)

  • A simulated power failure is carried out by opening the interconnector breaker between the main and emergency switchboards.
  • The emergency generator should start automatically and connect to the emergency switchboard.
  • Battery voltage and electrolyte levels are also checked.

  3. Quarterly Testing (On Load)

  • The emergency generator is operated on load for at least 30 minutes.
  • As much of the emergency load as safely possible is connected.
  • This test confirms the generator's ability to supply essential services and reach normal operating temperatures and pressures.
  • Transfer switches are also tested to ensure seamless transition.

  4. Annual Testing (Class Survey / Blackout Test)

  • A controlled blackout test may be performed by shutting down the main power (if safe and permitted).
  • The test confirms that the generator automatically starts, connects to the emergency switchboard, and restores all essential services.
  • A full inspection or overhaul of the emergency generator is carried out.
  • Auto-start and auto-transfer logic are verified.
  • The emergency switchboard, wiring, and circuits are thoroughly inspected.

  5. Battery Testing

  • Accumulator or emergency batteries are tested for:
    • Charge levels
    • Discharge capability
    • Terminal condition and connections
  • Controlled discharge tests (typically done in port or during drydock) may be used to assess actual capacity.

  6. Testing of Automatic Transfer Switches (ATS)

  • Automatic transfer switches are checked to ensure they:
    • Detect power failure
    • Initiate generator start
    • Transfer load smoothly

    7. Fuel Supply Verification

    • Regular checks to confirm:
      • Adequate fuel quantity
      • Correct fuel quality
      • Cleanliness of fuel tank and supply lines

      8. Log Book Entry

      • All tests must be logged with:
        • Date and time
        • Load details
        • Duration
        • Any observed faults or anomalies