What are the SOLAS requirements for an emergency source of electrical power in cargo ships, the services it must supply, and the starting arrangements for emergency generating sets?

flowchart TD
    A[Emergency Generator] --> B[Emergency Switchboard]
    B --> C1[Emergency Lighting]
    B --> C2[Navigation Lights]
    B --> C3[Radio Installations]
    B --> C4[Fire Pump]
    B --> C5[Emergency Bilge Pump]
    B --> C6[Steering Gear]
    B --> C7[Internal Comms]
    D[Starting Arrangements] --> A
    D -->|Stored energy| E[≥3 consecutive starts]
    D -->|Second source| F[+3 starts within 30 min]

• Source: SOLAS Chapter II-1, Regulation 43
• Ships: Cargo ships ≥ 500 GT
• Location: Above uppermost continuous deck, accessible from open deck, not forward of collision bulkhead, separated from main power spaces
• Capacity: Supply all essential services for 18 hours (3 hours for muster/embarkation lighting)
• Use: May supply non-emergency circuits only if safeguards ensure independent emergency operation
• Services (3h): Emergency lighting at muster/embarkation stations and over sides
• Services (18h): Emergency lighting in alleyways, stairways, exits, lifts, machinery spaces, control stations, firemen’s outfits, steering gear, pumps, cargo pump-rooms (tankers ≥ 2002), navigation lights, VHF/MF/HF radio, internal comms
• Start temp: 0°C cold start or heating arrangements
• Stored energy: ≥3 consecutive starts, second source for 3 more within 30 min (or manual start)
• Protection: Stored energy protected from depletion (ships ≥1994)