What is an enclosed space?
Limited access
Inadequate ventilation
Not designed for continuous worker occupation
What is required to be practised or tested during an enclosed Space drill?
Test & verify procedures
Communications
Atmosphere monitoring devices
Rescue equipment
First aid
PPE for entry
Hazards
Pre entry checks (BA Sets)
Rescue situations should be as realistic as possible. Always review safety flyers / flashes for recent incidents and try to incorporate those elements into your drills.
What rescue equipment is required for enclosed space entry
BA sets
Tripod & winch
Stretcher
Communications
Torches
EEBD (or similar) for casualties
How can an enclosed space become a dangerous space?
Enclosed space may contain toxic or flammable atmosphere or O2 deficiency
May endanger human life
Also includes unexpected loss of ventilation
Example, ships hold – enclosed on all sides but may be dangerous due to cargo residues
What is a dangerous space?
It is a space that may become dangerous
It may contain toxic or flammable gases
Or deficient in O2 where it endangers life
Also, unexpected reduction in ventilation
What is the company required to do regarding enclosed spaces?
Risk assess and identify areas which can be enclosed spaces
Make list of spaces
What are the procedures for entering an enclosed space?
Consult SMS
Review risk assessment
Generator permit to work
Space emptied of previous contents
Valves / power stopped
Ventilate space
Conduct atmosphere check
Place barriers at entrance
Rescue plan in place
Rescue equipment function tested and standby
Illumination
Access methods
Open 2 man holes if possible
Establish tank watch man at entrance
-Briefed on duties
-Communication with personnel in tank and bridge
-Maintain record of crew in and out of tank
Personal gas meters worn
-calibrated
State different types of enclosed spaces
Cargo spaces
Double bottoms
Fuel tanks
Ballast tanks
Cargo pump-rooms
Cargo compressor rooms
Cofferdams
Chain lockers
Void spaces
Duct keels
Inter-barrier spaces
Boilers
Engine crankcases
Engine scavenge air receivers
Sewage tanks
What is the drill frequency for enclosed space rescue?
Every 2 months
What are the hazards associated within enclosed spaces?
Poor access
Poor lighting
02 deficient
Toxic atmospheres
Flammable atmosphere
Escape and rescue limitations
What are the precautions to take during entry of enclosed space?
Check PPE
Check communication methods
Check gas measurement instruments
Test rescue equipment
First aid measures
Identification of hazards
Pre entry checks
Assessment of tank entry and recovery methods
-Vary per tank
What are the requirements for personnel regarding enclosed space entry?
Personnel must be;
Trained
Able to identify hazards
Carry out contingency hazards
Aware of alarms
Monitor ventilation
Illumination levels
Identify previous cargo and hazards
Monitor atmospheric levels
Gas Detectors
Where does the requirements for Atmosphere measuring devices come from?
IMO 1050
SOLAS
How does an explosimeter work / when testing for flammable gases?
Measures hydrocarbons below Lower Flammable Limit
Measures 1 – 100% of Lower flammable limit
Will not measure hydrocarbon in inert atmospheres, requires 02.
What are the basic measurements for atmosphere measuring devices?
Measure
02
CH4
H2S
CO
How to measure hydrocarbons in inert atmosphere
Use tank scope
Useful during inert gas purging
Indicates when hydrocarbons fall below limits
The space can be declared gas free
What unit integrity checks are conducted?
Aside from bump test / fresh air calibration, the following are done
General condition
Suction hose and ball unit
Filter screen
Battery in good condition
Hoses and connections in good condition.