I wasn't directly involved in this, but I think the problem was that the bilge strainer was dirty enough that the pump couldn't get an adequate suction.That valve is directly above the shaftline, so well under water. I think it was the treated sewage OVBD.
One of the Managers approached me, in concern muttering about how bad the leak was and the ship was in trouble. I laughed and said, No, they just shut the WT door, we'll lose some machinery but the ship is fine and the engineroom staff on there are very good.
I got the evil eye for being less then concerned.
And you know, we found out about it first thing in the morning, so no doubt it was the middle of the night that it happened.
It's like having a blackout....they only occur going in and out of harbour you know! Or some other tight place.
And isn't that true about the microswitch.
