We have logged the problems on approximately 40 boats since
the surveyors started testing to BSS. About 10 by us and the
remainder by Braunston marina and others operating at Braunston
Marina. The item which causes most concern is that one in three
of the boats tested failed the gas pressure drop test. The most
common reasons for failure are as follows:
- Pressure loss from the gas system, owing to:
- Leaks in joints, usually slow but sufficient to
fail test.
- Old style flexible hoses that seem to become gas permeable
after as little as four years.
- Gas powered generators using the American supplied unit commonly
used for the Honda generator. These seem very prone to leaks
from the purge system. We recently replaced a leaking unit with
two further units directly sourced from the importer. Both also
leaked. The importer went away to discuss problem with manufacturer.
- Very old cookers on which the controls leak very slightly.
- Flexible hoses not marked to current BS standard.
- Gas pipe work (sundry category) not properly supported, not
passing through bulkheads in suitable fittings, not visible,
too many joints, no gas test point, etc.
- Inadequate high/low level ventilation. A mix of inadequate
numbers of "mushroom" vents or low level vents.
- Engine room wiring not shielded/supported adequately or passing
through bulkheads unprotected.
- Exhaust systems not lagged.
- Engine Fuel hoses not to standard
- Hull openings not 10in above waterline.
- All sorts of missing labels, particularly gas labels.
- Batteries not covered and battery terminals of screw through
type.
- Units not fixed in place. e.g. stoves, fridge, cooker etc.
- Recently a trend for 13Kg gas bottles that can move more
that one inch, trend now falling off. Obviously a recent fad.
After this the faults become rather random.
On new/hire boats the old lifebouy requirement has resurfaced
together with an argument about gas bubble testers. Should they
be fitted in a bypass circuit as they are only 8mm diameter or
in the main feed line? We recommend in the main feed line, but
check with your favoured surveyor/examiner.
On boats over fifteen years old, particularly Springers, a
lot of bottom plating is being required. I guess we all get old
and wear out.
The area of testing being performed most casually is for electrical
systems. Cable sizes are not being checked, fuses/breakers are
not checked for size etc. The only item regularly being reported
is mains shore lines which do not have RCCB or isolators.