DRAFT, needs technical review. Not for publication. The title is our own wording, not the official Paris MoU text.
PSC deficiency code 04103: Emergency lighting, batteries and distribution
| Category | Emergency systems (SOLAS II-2) |
| Related certificate | Cargo Ship Safety Equipment |
| Main references | SOLAS II-1/43 (cargo ships); II-1/42 (passenger ships) |
| Typical action codes | 17 (rectify before departure), 30 (detainable) if serious |
| Commonly detainable? | Can be, depending on severity (no statistics claimed) |
What PSC officers look for
- Emergency lights failed on loss of main power test
- Battery chargers not maintaining float voltage
- Distribution boards not marked for emergency circuit
- Bulbs missing on escape routes
- Emergency source of electrical power not proven (see also auxiliary machinery and emergency generator arrangements)
Typical root causes
- Aged batteries beyond replacement interval
- Charger faults not alarmed
- Replacement with wrong lamp type
- Tests conducted without simulating main failure
Corrective action (example)
Replace defective batteries and lamps; repair chargers; test emergency lighting on dead ship or simulated failure; label circuits.
Preventive action (example)
Add battery age tracking in PMS; include full-duration test quarterly.
Evidence to attach for close-out
- Battery test record
- Charger reading log
- Photos of lit escape route
- PMS update
Related
Generate a close-out report for this finding · Download the CAP template
Official code list: Paris MoU, List of Deficiency Codes (1 July 2026). Action codes: Paris MoU, Inspection outcome. Reviewed by: _pending_ · Review date: _pending_ This page is general guidance, not legal, flag or class advice. Always follow the PSC officer's instructions and your flag and class requirements.