Found out that a couple of our "automatic & self-closing" fire doors, did not close today when we had a fire alarm. The alarm releases the automatic door holder, and it should close all doors thus separating the various departments, reducing the spread of heat smoke and fire. Thus give people a chance to evacuate, and smoke divers to fight the fire. The 3 doors failed because we had a 2,5 degree list to starboard side, due to washing of deck (wash water escaping to one side). The locking device was not strong enough to lift the extra weight of the door because of this. Easy fix I thought, I wrote an action plan for responsible of maintaining and checking these door’s. For him to increase the strength so the doors closes when we have a list. The question was how much list should they be able to cope with? So I consulted the SOLAS manual. SOLAS is the organisation created after the Titanic disaster. They are supposed to look after all human beings at sea. Safety Of Life At Sea. But in that "Bible" I find that only passenger ships are required to have doors capable of self-closing when the ship is listing up and to 3,5 degrees.
When doubting my ability to find my way in the, not too self-explanatory book, I requested the help of my eminent Super Intendent in the office ashore. I just could not believe that regular cargo ships and tankers would be excluded from this rule. But sure enough, an MCA scripture spelled out what SOLAS do not want to write in a clear sentence...
"G53.4.1 For cargo ships and tankers the requirement for doors to be self- closing, only applies to the doors when the ship is in the upright position, even though the Regulations do not specifically state this"
This is a disgrace.
We as mariners are used to be treated with suspicion by immigration authorities around the world, travelling is increasingly difficult and expensive, some custom officers bring their dogs into our cabins and they go thru our private and personal belongings, not caring the least about this vessel is our private home for half of our life, no integrity no respect.
And now to find that even SOLAS is involved in this persecution of Seamen...is sad.
But it has dawned on me today...Off course it is the curse brought on as a result of the crew onboard the Titanic, that locked the 3rd class passenger below deck to meet their destiny in what must have been an extremely, frightening and painful last hours of their lives.
Save the Passengers, never mind the crew on Cargo and Tanker ships, it is their turn now...and to eternity...
Apart from this, it has been a lovely day. Life goes on, for now....for some.
