PSC deficiency code 10109: Lights, shapes, sound-signals
Code 10109 covers the equipment that tells other ships what you are and what you're doing: navigation lights, day shapes and the sound signalling appliances. The inspector writing it doubts that another vessel would see or hear this ship correctly at night, in fog, at anchor or when she's not under command.
What the inspector looks at
Most of this is checked from the navigation light panel on the bridge, followed by a walk to the masts and the forecastle.
- Masthead, side, stern and anchor lights burning, on the main and the alternative lamps or circuits
- Not under command lights, and restricted in ability to manoeuvre lights where fitted
- The light panel's failure alarm, tested by switching off a lamp
- Lenses and screens intact and not blocked by cargo gear, deck lights or added equipment
- Day shapes on board in the right number and usable condition
- Whistle working from the bridge controls, the bell, and on ships of 100 m and over the gong
- Spare lamps of the right type for the lanterns fitted
Common findings
- Starboard sidelight inoperative
- Navigation light panel failure alarm not working
- NUC lights not operational
- Day shapes not on board, one black ball missing
- Ship's whistle not working from the bridge wing
- Stern light lens cracked and taped
- Masthead light obscured by newly fitted antenna mast
The rule behind it
The International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREG 1972) set what each vessel must show and sound. Part C covers lights and shapes, Part D sound and light signals, Annex I the positioning and technical details of lights and shapes, and Annex III the sound signalling appliances. SOLAS chapter II-1 also requires navigation lights to be supplied from the emergency source of power. Compliance is checked at the safety equipment survey; between surveys it depends on the crew's routine testing.
Action codes you are likely to see
A burnt-out lamp changed while the inspector waits is usually 10. A light, alarm or whistle that needs a part or an electrician tends to get 17, since the ship shouldn't sail without it. Missing shapes are often 17 too, as the agent can usually deliver them before departure. Absence, non-compliance or serious deterioration of lights, shapes or sound signals is on the IMO list of deficiencies that may justify detention, so a required light or the whistle that can't be made to work before departure can lead to 30. See action taken codes.
How to close it
The electrical officer or chief engineer repairs the lantern, cabling or alarm, then the officer of the watch tests every light on both circuits and logs it. Keep photos of the lights burning, the work order and any delivery note for lamps or shapes with the Form B. If a mast or antenna has changed since the last survey, ask class whether the light arcs need checking. Related: emergency lighting and batteries and electrical installations in general.