North P&I Club has published a new loss prevention briefing warning operators of the hazards associated with routine fumigation of agricultural products on ships and advises on measures to be taken in order to ensure safe process.
The Club recommends the following safety measures in order to ensure safe cargo fumigation without posing any additional hazards to personnel:
- Gas detection equipment, suitable for the intended fumigant. Ensure an appropriate quantity of spares are available and that all relevant personnel are trained in its correct use.
- Details of the intended fumigant, including its occupational exposure limits, instructions on the disposal of residual fumigant material and first aid requirements.
- A suitable number of respiratory protective equipment, suitable for the intended fumigant, but no less than four sets
- The latest version of the Medical First Aid Guide for Use in Accidents Involving Dangerous Goods (MFAG), including appropriate medicines and medical equipment.
- Strict enforcement of enclosed space entry procedures for all spaces and any areas identified by the fumigator in charge as being hazardous
- Procedures on how to check gas concentration levels in all spaces identified by the fumigator in charge including recording of results and the frequency of checks. This should be less than once every eight hours.
- Emergency procedures covering entry into fumigated spaces and venting of fumigated spaces
- Procedures covering ventilation of previously fumigated spaces and atmosphere testing prior to commencing discharge
Learn more by reading LP Briefing
Source: The North P&I Club
