Regulation 15-1

( a ) All external openings leading to compartments assumed intact in the damage analysis, which are below the final damage waterline, are required to be watertight. ( b ) External openings required to be watertight in accordance with paragraph ( a ) shall, except for cargo hatch covers, be fitted with indicators on the bridge. ( c ) Openings in the shell plating below the deck limiting the vertical extent of damage shall be fitted with a device that prevents unauthorized opening if they are accessible during the voyage. ( d ) Other closing appliances which are kept permanently closed at sea to ensure the watertight integrity of external openings shall be provided with a notice affixed to each appliance to the effect that it is to be kept closed. Manholes fitted with closely bolted covers need not be so marked. [S 686/2008 wef 01/01/2009]