What is the recommended method for checking for flooding in a compartment?

The recommended method for checking for flooding in a compartment involves using a metallic object to tap the bulkhead. This technique allows personnel to detect changes in sound which can indicate the presence of water. When tapping on the bulkhead, the sound produced differs when water is present compared to when the bulkhead is solid. The tapping method is effective because it provides immediate auditory feedback that can help on-the-spot assessment of the situation, making it a reliable practice in damage control scenarios.

This method is preferred because listening for sounds alone may not provide enough information about the extent of flooding, as it requires a trained ear to discern subtle changes. Using a flashlight to peer into corners can help locate visible water, but it might miss areas that are not in the line of sight or where water isn’t pooled visibly. Checking for dampness in the air can sometimes be an indicator, but it is not as definitive or reliable as the more direct approach of tapping the bulkhead to assess water presence directly.