Two Russian crew members aboard the dry cargo ship have died in an enclosed space accident off the coast of Turkey, reports Safety4sea.
Cargo hold asphyxiation
The incident, which is believed to have been caused by gas poisoning in the ship’s cargo holds, occurred while the ship was anchored at the Çelebi pier in Bandırma, located in the Balikesir province. The victims have been identified as a 46-year-old and a 52-year-old.
A representative from the company operating the vessel confirmed the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. Authorities are currently awaiting autopsy results to confirm the cause of death and officially identify the victims. Once this process is completed, the bodies of the deceased will be repatriated to Russia.
This incident has once again raised concerns about safety protocols aboard cargo ships, particularly in relation to hazardous conditions in confined spaces such as ship holds.
For enclosed space entry, keep in mind:
ALWAYS
- Check if a Permit is required; obtain authorization and comply;
- Verify that the atmosphere has been tested and made safe and confirm what and when re-testing is required;
- Challenge the testing: ask when and where it was completed, by whom, and what materials / substances were in the space;
- Confirm that all energy, machinery and fluids and gases have been isolated and locked-out;
- Verify that the atmosphere of the space will not be affected by adjacent activities;
- Agree an appropriate rescue plan with your co-workers before entry, including watchman.
NEVER
- Work in an enclosed space if you can complete the task in a safer way;
- Enter an enclosed space without fully understanding the hazards present and being satisfied it is safe;
- Enter an enclosed space alone;
- Deviate from the agreed safety or emergency procedures.
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Source: Safety4sea
