6 General Precautions
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Statutory Documents - IMO Publications and Documents - Resolutions - Assembly - IMO Resolution A.1050(27) – Revised Recommendations for Entering Enclosed Spaces Aboard Ships – (Adopted on 30 November 2011) - Annex – Revised Recommendations for Entering Enclosed Spaces Aboard Ships - 6 General Precautions

6 General Precautions

  6.1 Entry doors or hatches leading to enclosed spaces should at all times be secured against entry, when entry is not required.

  6.2 A door or hatch cover which is opened to provide natural ventilation of an enclosed space may, wrongly, be taken to be an indication of a safe atmosphere and therefore, an attendant may be stationed at the entrance or the use of a mechanical barrier, such as a rope or chain positioned across the opening with an attached warning sign, could prevent such accidental entry.

  6.3 The master or the responsible person should determine that it is safe to enter an enclosed space by ensuring that:

  • .1 potential hazards have been identified in the assessment and as far as possible isolated or made safe;

  • .2 the space has been thoroughly ventilated by natural or mechanical means to remove any toxic or flammable gases and to ensure an adequate level of oxygen throughout the space;

  • .3 the atmosphere of the space has been tested as appropriate with properly calibrated instruments to ascertain acceptable levels of oxygen and acceptable levels of flammable or toxic vapours;

  • .4 the space has been secured for entry and properly illuminated;

  • .5 a suitable system of communication between all parties for use during entry has been agreed and tested;

  • .6 an attendant has been instructed to remain at the entrance to the space whilst it is occupied;

  • .7 rescue and resuscitation equipment has been positioned ready for use at the entrance to the space and rescue arrangements have been agreed;

  • .8 personnel are properly clothed and equipped for the entry and subsequent tasks; and

  • .9 a permit has been issued, authorizing entry.

The precautions in subparagraphs .6 and .7 may not apply to every situation described in this section. The person authorizing entry should determine whether an attendant and the positioning of rescue equipment at the entrance to the space are necessary.

  6.4 Only trained personnel should be assigned the duties of entering, functioning as attendants or functioning as members of rescue teams. Ships' crews with rescue and first aid duties should be drilled periodically in rescue and first aid procedures. Training should include as a minimum:

  • .1 identification of the hazards likely to be faced during entry into enclosed spaces;

  • .2 recognition of the signs of adverse health effects caused by exposure to hazards during entry; and

  • .3 knowledge of personal protective equipment required for entry.

  6.5 All equipment used in connection with entry should be in good working condition and inspected prior to use.

Parent topic: Annex – Revised Recommendations for Entering Enclosed Spaces Aboard Ships
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