As Second Engineer, what are your responsibilities for boiler safety valves?
Short answer
- Purpose: Prevent overpressure in steam boilers by automatic steam discharge
- Minimum number: Not less than two safety valves per steam boiler (SOLAS II-1 Reg 32)
- Heating surface exception: One safety valve may be accepted if total heating surface < 9.3 m²
- Setting tolerance: Up to 3% above the design pressure
- Tamper-proof: Springs, valves, spindles and adjusting screws cased-in and locked; any adjustable part that can increase load fitted with substantial locking device
- Lifting gear: Screw lifting gear accessible, free from steam danger, arranged to lift all safety valves on any one boiler together where practicable; permits valves to be turned on their seats by hand
- Discharge: Led to a safe place
- Testing: Safety valves to be tested under steam to the satisfaction of the surveyor or, if not possible before sailing, to the satisfaction of the Chief Engineer for the voyage
- SE responsibility: Supervise testing, verify compliance, maintain boiler log records, ensure crew follow SMS procedures, escalate defects to Chief Engineer
Full answer
The full answer explains each point step by step, with the regulations and figures behind it and the discussion from other candidates. It is in the MEO Class II section of the Marine One forum, open to members enrolled for the MEO Class II exam.