How Do You Use the Bathroom on a Nuclear Submarine?

TL;DR

Using the bathroom on a nuclear submarine involves a specialized toilet that operates with pressurized seawater. After use, you must open a ball valve to flush waste, and following detailed procedures is crucial to prevent mishaps. Showers are likewise efficient, lasting only 3-5 minutes to conserve water, which is a high priority on board.

Transcript

• Hey it's me Destin. Welcome back to Smarter Every Day. If you're just joining this nuclear submarine deep dive series, boy have I got a treat for you. We have covered a ton of stuff that happens on board nuclear submarines. We looked at sonar, we looked at torpedoes how to make air, food, water, all this stuff, the command structure. This has bee... Read More

Key Insights

• 👾 Cribbage is a popular game amongst submariners, providing entertainment and a way to pass the time during long voyages.
• 🖐️ The yeoman plays a crucial role in handling administrative tasks, including pay and correspondence, ensuring proper functioning and cohesion on board.
• 😷 Medical emergencies on submarines require innovative solutions due to the limited resources and lack of immediate access to medical facilities.
• 😳 Water conservation is a priority on submarines, with short showers and efficient flushing systems in place to minimize resource usage.
• 👾 The submariners' need for entertainment and privacy is met through designated spaces, clubs, and individual cabins.
• 🧑‍🦽 The submarine relies heavily on detailed manuals and procedures to ensure efficient operation and quick response in case of emergencies.
• 🍵 The submarine crew's ability to adapt and handle intense situations with limited resources showcases their resilience and professionalism.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is the significance of cribbage on a submarine?

Cribbage is a traditional game played on submarines as a form of entertainment and a way to pass the time during long voyages. It helps build camaraderie and offers a mental break from the demanding work on board.

Q: How are pay-related issues handled on a submarine?

The yeoman, who is responsible for administrative tasks, deals with pay issues on board a submarine. If there is a problem, they contact the appropriate authorities and work to rectify the situation, ensuring proper payment for the crew.

Q: How are medical emergencies handled on a submarine?

In the event of a medical emergency, the submarine's medic takes charge and provides immediate care. While surgeries are not performed on board, antibiotics and pain management are used for conditions such as appendicitis. Serious emergencies may require evacuation to a medical facility once the submarine resurfaces.

Q: What is the protocol for taking a shower on a submarine?

Showers on submarines are typically limited to three to five minutes to conserve water. The process involves wetting oneself, shutting off the water to lather up, and then rinsing off quickly to minimize water usage. This helps conserve resources and maintain stealth during missions.

Q: How do toilets work on a nuclear submarine?

The toilets on a submarine use pressurized seawater for flushing. A ball valve controls the flow of waste, and backfilling with water helps create a seal to prevent odors from escaping. Detailed procedures and signs ensure proper handling and prevent accidents during waste disposal.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The video provides a glimpse into life on board a nuclear submarine, covering various aspects such as games played on board, like cribbage.

• The yeoman's role in handling administrative tasks, including pay and correspondence, is crucial to maintaining order on the submarine.

• Medical emergencies on a submarine are handled by the onboard medic and require innovative solutions due to the submarine's isolated environment.