fuel pipes in bilges

The provisions of this section of Part 2 in the 2002 BSS Standards are mandatory for non-private boats where applicable.

To reduce the chance of fuel pipes corroding, which could cause them to leak, fuel pipes must be installed above bilge water level. Bilge water level can usually be determined by the presence of:

  • a 'tidemark'
  • the position of the bilge pump or its inlet
  • the level at which the float switch is set.

It's a good idea to run your boat's fuel pipes as high as possible to prevent them from being accidentally damaged. If they run under the cabin floor it's recommended that they are as close to the underside of the floor as possible. [2.18]