Every year, a significant number of seafarers is injured or die while working/ entering enclosed spaces, mainly due to poor training and knowledge of all related procedures or a disregard of non-visible hazards.
As an enclosed space is defined a space which has at least one of the following characteristics: i. limited openings for entry and exit; ii. unfavorable natural ventilation; iii. is not designed for continuous worker occupancy. Examples of enclosed spaces that can be found onboard:
- Cargo spaces
- Double bottom
- Fuel tanks
- Ballast tanks
- Compressor rooms
- Engine crankcases
The atmosphere within an enclosed space is the number one hazard due to air contents. In order to be accessible and safe for crew members to perform any kind of tasks within this specific space, the following should be checked prior to entry: the oxygen level, the flammable gases level and the harmful gases level.
7 related hazards
#1 A toxic atmosphere may cause impairment of judgement, unconsciousness, death
#2 Oxygen deficiency may occur due to chemical reactions or biological processes
#3 Some materials may burn vigorously or spontaneously in an enriched oxygen atmosphere
#4 If a flammable atmosphere inside a confined space ignites, an explosion may occur
#5 Liquids may cause drowning / free flowing solids result to an asphyxiating atmosphere
#6 Increased risk of collapse from heat stress, if conditions are excessively hot
#7 Proper area observation is prohibited by inadequate lighting inside such spaces
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.
A detailed Risk Assessment must be conducted prior Enclosed Space Entry
