In the event of the loss of main electrical power, the main engine could immediately shut down and this could lead to a dangerous situation, if the vessel is maneuvering in narrow, congested waters, or near the coastline or at sea facing rough weather.
The emergency generator will then start automatically and come on-load and the emergency power will then be available. It is not possible to restart the main engines until the ship’s main alternators are restarted and taken on load.
The following should be considered as a general plan of action with suitable modifications to suit the actual type of ship involved:
- Sounding the general alarm
- Exhibit NUC lights or shapes
- Prepare for anchoring, depths & location permitting
- Monitor weather forecasts closely