Construction

(1) The strength and construction of hull, superstructures, deckhouses, machinery casings, companion ways and any other structure and equipment shall be sufficient to withstand all foreseeable conditions of the intended service. (2) Ships shall be fitted with a collision bulkhead in accordance with regulation 21(1) and with watertight bulkheads bounding the machinery spaces. Such bulkheads should be extended up to the freeboard deck. In ships constructed of wood such bulkheads should also be fitted extending to the freeboard deck and shall be watertight as far as practicable. (3) Propeller shafts and shaft logs or stern tubes shall not be situated in any space other than machinery spaces containing main propulsion unless they are enclosed in watertight spaces or enclosures inside such spaces acceptable to the Administration. The Administration may exempt from the requirements of this regulation, ships having constraint of space or engaged on sheltered voyages provided it is demonstrated that any progressive flooding of such space can be easily controlled and that the safety of the ship is not impaired. (4) Stern glands shall be located in spaces which can be easily accessible at all times for inspection and maintenance to the satisfaction of the Administration. Merchant Ships (Registration) 127