Focused training is vital
Andrew Sheriff comments on the Concentrated Inspection Campaign (CIC) on Crew Familiarization for Enclosed Space Entry recently launched by the maritime authorities of Tokyo and Paris.
Launching this September, the maritime authorities of Tokyo and Paris are initiating a joint Concentrated Inspection Campaign (CIC) on Crew Familiarization for Enclosed Space Entry to encourage crew safety when entering and working in potentially dangerous spaces on-board.
Andrew Sheriff, a senior Safety Executive in Wilhelmsen Ships Service (WSS) believes focused training is vital; “This is a good initiative. Training on products is key. Training on procedures is key, and of course actually testing the confined spaces before entry is key.“
He adds: “The issue can only be dealt if best practices are combined with reliable safety products, if either is missing the loss of life at sea will, tragically, continue. Best practices come from specific training and reliable products come from quality manufacturers and service providers“.
Including approximately 10,000+ inspections, the three-month campaign will provide invaluable insight to IMO on how the safety procedures and equipment on the world fleet match up with current SOLAS requirements.
However, when it comes to working in enclosed spaces, Sheriff is firm.
“Frankly, meeting the regulatory demands is just the beginning. Ship owners and managers also need to focus on scenarios that can arise and what products and training will be needed. IMO Resolution A 1050 (27) clause 6, Recommendations for working in enclosed spaces, highlights exactly this point. Along with gas detection equipment, vessels needs the right checklists, rescue equipment like resuscitators and stretchers, SCBA sets and fire extinguishers to name a few and they all need to work in an emergency“.
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Source: WSS