Unmanned machinery space

An unmanned machinery space (UMS), carried by class as the E0 or AUT notation, is an engine room arranged to run safely without a watchkeeper continuously present. SOLAS Chapter II-1 Part E, Regulations 46 to 54, sets the conditions: fire and bilge detection with bridge alarms, automatic and remote bridge control of propulsion, an extension alarm system to the duty engineer’s cabin and public rooms, a dead-man alarm, and assured electrical supply on loss of the main source. The duty engineer is on call and must reach the space quickly when an alarm sounds. Class confirms the arrangement at the annual survey, including alarm and trip testing, before endorsing the notation.