Handling Cargo Hold Bilges on Container vessels
Hold bilges must be sounded at least once daily and also checked for content on the sounding rod (this will indicate if any oil or cargo effluent exists, mingled with water). They must be pumped out, when well within the bilge well depth.
If vessel is in port, bilges should be transferred to the bilge holding tank (where fitted), but if reached tank top level (due rain), then pumping out must only be done after visual check inside hold for uncontaminated of water.