As a general rule, what degree of flooding indicates that a compartment is open to the sea?

The correct answer indicates that both a completely flooded compartment and a compartment flooded to sea level signal that the compartment is open to the sea. When a compartment is entirely flooded, it implies that water has breached the compartment's boundaries and can no longer be contained, directly correlating with the presence of seawater. Additionally, if a compartment is flooded to sea level, it indicates that water is at or above the level of the surrounding sea, confirming that the integrity of the compartment's structure has been compromised.

This situation can arise in various scenarios, such as damage from an outside force or operational defects. It's crucial for personnel to recognize these signs promptly, as they could lead to further flooding and potential loss of the vessel's integrity.

In contrast, while water leaking from seams in a compartment may suggest a breach, it does not definitively indicate that the compartment is fully compromised or at sea level. Therefore, while this situation can be a warning sign, it does not meet the criteria set by the general rule concerning flooding degrees.