It can be dangerous to enter areas that have been closed for a long time, such as tanks, cargo holds, chain lockers or coffer dams. Toxic vapours may have developed and there could be a lack of oxygen. So check out the situation before anyone enters such areas to work.
The questions on below will help to ensure that the situation is properly checked. Some of the questions are aimed at the supervisor, others for the operative.
The forms do not apply to tanks or cargo holds being used to transport dangerous cargoes. Certain special procedures then apply.
Questions to be answered by the supervisor
The supervisor must check the following:
- Has the closed space been thoroughly ventilated and has the air been tested and found safe for entry?
- Will ventilation operate during work and breaks?
- Is emergency equipment available for instant use?
- Is a safety attendant stationed outside the entrance to the area and required to be always present?
- Have the safety attendant and operative agreed how to communicate?
- Are access and exit points safe enough?
- Is there sufficient lighting?
- Is portable lighting and other equipment approved?
Questions to be answered by the person entering the closed space.
The operative about to enter an enclosed space must check the following:
- Has the supervisor given you permission to enter the area?
- Has the first form been filled in satisfactorily?
- Do you understand that you must leave the area immediately if the ventilation system breaks down?
- Do you understand how to communicate with the safety attendant?
Questions to be answered where external air is required
If it is necessary to use a fresh air supply, the supervisor and the operative inside the closed space must check the following regularly:
- Are you familiar with the equipment being used?
- Has the equipment been tested?
- Do the pressure regulator and pressure guage work?
- Does the air volume / capacity of the equipment match the job you will be doing?
- Is there an audible low pressure alarm?
- Is there a sufficient air supply to the face mask and is the mask air-tight?
- Have tools /communications been tested?
- Have you agreed a signal in the case of danger/disaster?
The operative to enter the closed space must show the completed questions to the safety attendant.
Entry will only be permitted if all the questions have been correctly checked.
The questiona are all drawn up on the basis of IMO Bulk Cargo Code, Appendix F.