Machine translation from English source
Tanks, holds, void spaces, double bottoms, air ducts, pump rooms, cofferdams, chain lockers, CO2 rooms, waste water tanks, pressure vessels, storage chambers, inter-barrier spaces, IG scrubbers, etc.
Entry into any confined space is dangerous and can result in rapid death from harmful gases and/or lack of oxygen. NEVER TAKE THE TANK OR HOLD IT SAFELY. The master is responsible for identifying hazardous areas and establishing procedures for safe entry.
Any tank, cargo hold or space that contained liquid or was enclosed is expected to have a hazardous atmosphere and therefore be unsafe to enter without breathing apparatus protection. Unsecured entry should not be attempted until a competent person has assessed and taken appropriate measures to ensure that the person's entry area is safe. Any open tank that has NOT been "gas-free" must be protected from entry and a NO ENTRY notice must be posted on the hatch opening.
The Master or First Officer MUST ensure that entry into an enclosed space is safe:
Identify potential hazards.
Ensuring that the space is prepared for entry and is thoroughly ventilated by natural or mechanical means.
Testing the atmosphere of a space at different levels for lack of oxygen and harmful vapors (if suitable instruments are available).
Make sure procedures are in place before and after entry. If there is any doubt about the adequacy of ventilation or testing, ensure that all persons entering the premises wear breathing apparatus.
If, as is possible on a cargo ship, there is no suitable equipment to test the atmosphere inside the tank/hold, it is absolutely essential that the tank/hold concerned is properly ventilated prior to entry and continuously thereafter.
In all cases and prior to entry, the closed premises checklist (see below) must be completed. Whenever entry into a newly opened tank/hold is made for the first time, a qualified person must be on deck to monitor the necessary lifeline and situation.
SAFETY LIST
The Confined Space Entry Safety Checklist must be used prior to entering confined spaces. Refer to the company's standard forms file.
