Liberia: Preventing fatalities in enclosed spaces on vessels

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  • Liberia issued an advisory after a fatal incident involving toxic gas inhalation onboard a vessel.
  • The advisory stresses the need for strict safety protocols and crew training for entering enclosed spaces.
  • Vessel owners and crew are urged to review and update their safety procedures to prevent similar incidents.

The Republic of Liberia has issued an advisory emphasizing the importance of establishing strict safety protocols for entering enclosed spaces onboard vessels. This comes in the wake of a fatal incident involving a Deck Trainee, highlighting the need for enhanced safety measures and crew training, reports The Liberian Registry.

Incidents Occured

The advisory follows an ongoing investigation into a tragic incident where a Deck Trainee lost their life due to toxic gas inhalation.

The incident occurred after the vessel had discharged high-sulfur coal cargo, and the trainee was assigned to inspect the cargo residues in the bilges before cleaning operations began.

The Deck Trainee was later found unresponsive in about 10 cm of water, and an autopsy revealed that the cause of death was hydrogen sulfide inhalation.

The investigation pointed out a lack of awareness regarding the dangers of entering enclosed spaces, inadequate supervision, and the failure to recognize the cargo hold bilges as a hazardous area after the cargo was discharged.

Advisory Recommendations

In response, the Liberian Administration recommends that vessel Owners, Operators, Masters, and Crew thoroughly review and, if necessary, revise their procedures for entering enclosed spaces. The advisory stresses the importance of conducting proper training to ensure that all crew members are fully aware of onboard hazards and strictly adhere to safety procedures.

The Republic of Liberia’s advisory serves as a critical reminder of the dangers associated with enclosed spaces onboard vessels. Proper safety protocols and training are essential to prevent future incidents and ensure the well-being of all crew members.

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Source: The Liberian Registry