Construction Guidelines

– The battery room shall be permanently fixed to the hull by welding or the like, and the hull sub-structure shall be adequately reinforced.

– It is crucial that the battery room is both dry and well-ventilated, with charging equipment that is free from dirt, loose connections, and overheating.

– The ventilation system for the battery locker must be regularly checked to ensure proper airflow for both lead acid and alkaline batteries.

– Non-sparking fans should be used to prevent static charge, and an independent exhaust fan should be provided.

– Inlet ducts should be located below the battery level, and outlets should be at the top of the compartment.

– Exd proof light or flameproof light should be used, and materials for ducting and paint used in the battery room should be corrosion-resistant.

– Cables of adequate size should be correctly connected, and insulated spanners and plastic jugs should be used to prevent short circuits when handling distilled water.

– The battery should not discharge more than 12% of the nominal voltage.

– The battery room is designed in such a way that it will prevent spillage of electrolyte & emission spray.

– The battery room should be painted with acid-resistant paint and should have an anti-acidic floor

It is also essential to ensure that the battery room is not located next to the emergency switchboard and that it does not contain other systems related to the essential services of the ship. Pipes shall not penetrate the battery room as leakage of the pipe may cause damage or failure of the battery system.