- Enclosed spaces onboard vessels are hazardous, and strict protocols are required to ensure the safety of personnel during entry.
- Comprehensive risk assessments and safety measures must be conducted as advised by the Republic of Liberia.
- Safety equipment like breathing apparatus, gas detectors, and protective clothing should always be used when entering potentially unsafe spaces.
According to the Republic of Liberia’s recent Marine Notice, spaces that have not been tested should be considered unsafe for entry. These spaces should only be entered if no other alternative exists, and strict protocols must be followed, reports SAFETY4SEA.
Identifying Hazardous Enclosed Spaces
The company must ensure that there are clear instructions and procedures for entering enclosed spaces, as per paragraph 7 of the International Safety Management (ISM) Code. This includes conducting dynamic risk assessments and ensuring that all enclosed spaces are identified.
An enclosed space is defined as a space with limited openings for entry and exit, inadequate ventilation, and is not meant for continuous worker occupancy. This includes areas such as cargo spaces, fuel tanks, ballast tanks, and cargo pump rooms. Each vessel must maintain its list of enclosed spaces.
ISM Code Compliance for Enclosed Spaces
Companies are required to include clear instructions on entering enclosed spaces as part of their safety management procedures.
This ensures that entries are carried out in a safe and controlled manner.
Preliminary Hazard Assessments: A Must
Before entering any space, a competent person must conduct a preliminary assessment to identify potential hazards.
The assessment must consider factors such as the type of cargo previously carried, ventilation, inert gases, and the possibility of toxic or flammable atmospheres.
The Importance of Proper Ventilation and Testing
Ventilation procedures should be followed to ensure that the space is free of toxic gases and contains sufficient oxygen.
The atmosphere should be tested with properly calibrated instruments to verify acceptable levels of oxygen, flammable vapors, and toxic gases before entry.
Rescue Protocols and Communication Procedures
Before entering, it’s essential to have a communication system in place for emergencies, with all parties involved aware of how to attract attention if necessary.
Rescue and resuscitation equipment should be positioned near the entrance and rescue arrangements should be discussed and evaluated beforehand.
Essential Safety Gear for Enclosed Spaces
Personnel entering enclosed spaces should be equipped with calibrated portable multi-gas detectors to monitor levels of oxygen, carbon monoxide, and other hazardous gases. Proper clothing and safety gear should also be worn.
Atmospheric testing should be done continuously while the space is occupied. Any deterioration in conditions should lead to the immediate evacuation of the personnel inside. Ventilation must continue throughout occupancy, and re-testing must be done after any break.
Additional Precautions for Hazardous Enclosed Spaces
If a space is known or suspected to have a hazardous atmosphere, entry should only occur for testing, essential operations, or safety reasons.
Breathing apparatus and protective clothing should always be used, and rescue equipment should be ready at the entrance.
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Source: SAFETY4SEA
