1 As shipboard and port State control procedures
on health and safety aspects already exist there is no need to develop
new procedures for the purpose of ballast water sampling. In general,
ship procedures, especially for entry into enclosed spaces, shall
be followed if more stringent than national regulations. However,
the following paragraphs provide some additional guidance.
2 Worker health and safety should be a primary
consideration during all the sampling operations as ships and ports
are hazardous environments in which to work. Any sampling operation
should be undertaken after consideration of the specific risks associated
with the ballast water being sampled. Appropriate personal protective
equipment connected with the work should be worn as necessary.
3 In the event sampling involves entry into confined
spaces, Recommendations for entering enclosed spaces aboard ships (resolution A.864(20)) and relevant IACS
Recommendations on confined space safe practice (www.iacs.org.uk),
and standard industry practice on man entry into enclosed spaces should
be consulted (e.g., ISGOTT).
4 All electrical equipment, including torches,
should be intrinsically safe for use on board ships when required.
Safety limitations on the use of mobile telephones, etc., should always
be observed. Standard industry practice on the use of electrical equipment
including mobile telephone should be consulted (e.g., ISGOTT).
5 All electrical equipment to be used aboard should
be checked to ensure that it is intrinsically safe. Pumps in particular
should be fitted with waterproof junctions at the point where the
electrical lead passes into the pump body and all plugs should be
waterproof with rubber casings. If there is any doubt about an electrical
supply or equipment aboard a vessel, advice from the ship’s
master or a member of the port company electrical staff should be
sought.