Safety Alert

Entry into enclosed spaces : Spaces potentially unsafe for entry

In judging whether a space is potentially unsafe for entry, you should first understand what makes a space unsafe. The typical characteristics of an unsafe space is as follows :

Space Space that is not designed for continuous occupancy Accumulation - a capacity to Accumulate a hazardous atmosphere Ventilation - severely limited natural Ventilation Exits - Exits that are not readily accessible

Apply it - it could save your life

Some of the more obvious potentially unsafe spaces are tanks, cargo spaces, bilges, containers, pump rooms, chain lockers, cofferdams and void spaces.

S.A.V.E

But not all unsafe spaces are so easy to spot .

Recent experience of MCA surveyors has identified spaces not previously recognised as posing a danger to crews. In one case a routine inspection of a totally enclosed lifeboat found high levels of hydrogen sulphide even though the hatchway had been opened for a while. The gas had built up due to battery charging.

In another, the tally office of a general cargo vessel was found to have in excess of 100ppm carbon monoxide. Adjacent to this tally office was an underdeck rope store and a cargo hold access both of which were open. The cargo consisted of rolls of paper and coils of copper. And in another case a surveyor witnessing a test of an emergency fire pump found that levels of CO became dangerously high in the space housing the pump due to a previously undetected leak on the pump exhaust. These incidents highlight a gas build-up or an oxygen deficiency may occur in spaces that might not, at first sight, be considered confined or enclosed. Seafarers are encouraged to consider ALL spaces, think about their own areas of responsibility onboard ship, the areas or spaces they have access to, and may conceivably need access to periodically or for maintenance reasons. Apply S.A.V.E to each of them Identify any new spaces or environments where the dangers of an enclosed / confined space may arise. Use crew safety meetings to address the identification of confined / enclosed spaces and obtain instruction on confined space entry procedures.

Further information :
Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seamen Chapter 17 Merchant Shipping (Entry into Dangerous Spaces) Regulations 1988 SI 1998/1638 Your Safety at Sea - Entry Into Enclosed Spaces leaflet Ref. MCA/198 Safety Alert Article 1 - Bulletin 354 - 03/04 - Entry into Enclosed Spaces - A Reminder of the Dangers - USA Seafarer Safety & Health Branch November 2009