Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about NSCV C2

My vessel measures ≥24 m with a load line length of <24 m. Does it meet the requirements of Chapter 4?

Chapter 2, 2.1 (3), states:  

If you do not find the length of your vessel outlined in a specific chapter, you must adhere to the requirements in Chapter 4.  

Chapter 4 applies to all vessels, which are <24 m load line length, including those that are ≥24 m in measured length.   

Where to find vessel length requirements in NSCV C2. 

Vessel load line length ≥24 m 

• Chapter 3: load line requirements aligned with the ICLL for Class 1 and 2 vessels in offshore waters  
• Chapter 5: the ICLL with some modifications for Class 1 and 2 vessels in sheltered waters vessels  
• Chapter 6: specific requirements consistent with the principles of ICLL as practical and appropriate for Class 3 vessels  

Vessel load line length <24 m 

• Chapter 4: specific requirements consistent with the ICLL as far as practicable and appropriate. Requirements for all vessels not covered in any of the chapters above. 

We regularly review our standards to meet sector needs. We welcome your feedback and recommendations to Chapter 4, clause 4.1.
Email: NSCVfeedback@amsa.gov.au.

If you would like to be notified of future reviews on National Standards for Commercial Vessels (NSCV), please sign up to receive updates.   

Do I need to consider ISO 6345: Shipbuilding and marine structures; Windows and side scuttles when designing and constructing load lines (ICLL) vessels covered in Clause 3.4 of the NSCV C2?

ISO 6345 establishes terms and definitions in English and French and is to be used with an appropriate design and construction standard listed within 3.4. 

What is the correct unit of measure for the diameter of an air pipe?

The correct units of measurement are:  less than or equal to 150 mm or  a cross-sectional area of ≤ 177 cm2. 

Can you please explain the different requirements for seacocks, through-hull fittings, and valves, outlined in NSCV C2, clause 4.11 and NSCV C5A, clause 5.7.2.5?

The NSCV C2 project team worked with the industry as part of the technical advisory panel to develop the new standard.  

They reviewed the use of non-metallic seacocks and through-hull fittings currently used throughout the industry.  

The NSCV C2 project team has limited non-metallic seacocks and through-hull fittings because of: 

• inferior performance on fire boundaries,  
• susceptibility to being walked on or crushed when used in machinery spaces, access ways, and maintenance envelopes.  

NSCV C2 4.11 (1) explains when not to use non-metallic seacocks and through-hull fittings.  Valves or similar fittings in a machinery space or other high fire risk area, or essential system piping, must be of steel, bronze, copper, or other non-brittle fire-resistant material.   The note below NSCV C2 4.11 (3) includes a similar statement.

Non-metallic fittings are generally not suitable when a fire-resistant material is required or in an area of high use that is susceptible to being walked on or crushed. Use metallic fittings on fire boundaries and when fittings are close to or adjacent to machinery and equipment within maintenance envelopes.    

What are the important compliance requirements for an open vessel less than 12 m in length?

NSCV C2 Chapter 4, NSCV Part B and NSCV C2 clause 4.2 (2) outline compliance requirements for rapid drainage for an open vessel of less than 12 m.  Additional compliance requirements depend on the vessel and its operational category.  

NSCV C2 4.2 (2) 

Vessels arranged without weather decks and superstructure under 4.2 (1) fall within the definition of an open vessel in NSCV C6A.    

NSCV Part B and NSCV Section C6.  

Open vessels must meet the performance requirements for open vessels.   Note: NSCV C6B sometimes points to NSCV C2 as a deemed to satisfy solution.   

An example of rapid drainage compliance requirements for an open vessel of less than 12 m.    

A 10 m open collared vessel carrying passengers in operational area C requires:     

• a well deck located less than 150 mm above the deepest loaded waterline   
• level flotation as outlined in NSCV Part B and Part C6B clause 4.4.1 Table 5 flooding risk category II   
• rapid drainage as per NSCV C6B clause 4.4.3. A single person can drain all water in the well overboard in not more than 3 minutes. This assumes the quantity of water as determined in the NSCV C6B clause 4.2.2.2.