How is the ship divided into zones?

Dividing a ship into zones is primarily achieved through the use of main subdivision bulkheads. These bulkheads serve multiple crucial functions, including providing structural integrity, fire resistance, and compartmentalization, which enhances safety and stability during voyages. By creating distinct zones, bulkheads help to contain any potential flooding or fire, preventing the spread to other parts of the ship. This compartmentalization is vital for emergency response, ensuring that crew and passengers can evacuate safely and situations can be managed effectively.

While other methods like movable walls or temporary barriers may create divisions in certain contexts, such as for temporary spaces or specific purposes, they lack the structural reliability and regulatory compliance that main subdivision bulkheads provide. Painted lines on the floor might indicate certain zones or pathways but do not offer any physical separation or safety features that bulkheads do. Thus, the best and most effective method of dividing a ship into zones for safety and operational efficiency remains the use of main subdivision bulkheads.