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• Fuel Oil Quick Closing Valves (QCVs) are designed as positive shutoff valves on fuel oil systems serving to isolate fuel tanks in the event of a fire and also prevent “fuelling” of a fire. An inoperable QCVs creates a very serious hazardous condition putting the vessel and its crew at greater risk in the event of a fire

• These valves may be operated remotely by pull wires, hydraulics, compressed air, etc. QCVs are to be regularly maintained and tested for proper operation.

• During recent PSC Inspections it has been noticed by Port State Control Officers (PSCOs) that the Quick Closing Valves (QCVs) in few instances are intentionally blocked, modified, and poorly maintained preventing them from operating as designed during an emergency.

• Blocking or disabling these valves is unacceptable under any circumstance. It is absolutely critical that they operate correctly, are maintained, and ready for use at all times. Scheduled inspection by senior shipboard staff and company superintendents can ensure full compliance.

• In view of above, ship owners, operators and masters are advised as following;
  • The Inspection, maintenance and testing of QCVs should be incorporated in the ships Planned Maintenance System.
  • Familiarization and training on operation of the QCVs should be carried out at regular intervals.
  • When required only approved modifications to be allowed for the proper operation of the system.
  • All personnel involved with the operation, maintenance and inspection of QCVs should ensure as a minimum the following:

a. System is capable of remotely closing all valves as designed.

b. Maintenance plan is in place including technical manuals containing diagrams and information that describe the system components, required spare parts, operation, maintenance and repair.

c. Personnel involved can identify the location of each valve, the respective remote closure and how to close them locally and remotely in an emergency.

d. Location of QCVs to be positively identified.

e.Inventory of spares related to QCVs is available on board.

Enclosure:  

None

Disclaimer:

This Technical Circular and the material contained in it is provided only for the purpose of supplying current information to the reader and not as an advice to be relied upon by any person. While we have taken utmost care to be as factual as possible, readers/ users are advised to verify the exact text and content of the Regulation from the original source/ issuing Authority.

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