Marine Engineering

A number of different types of respiratory protective equipment are available for use on board ship. Some respiratory protective equipment is required to be carried to meet the fire safety provisions of SOLAS. However, under the provisions of the ISM Code, the shipowner is responsible for providing the level of equipment needed to safely manage all aspects of shipboard operational and safety activities. Respiratory protective equipment necessary to meet these provisions will, in most cases, exceed the minimum requirements under SOLAS. 1. SELF CONTAINED BREATHING APPARATUS (SCBA) This consists of a portable supply of compressed air contained in a cylinder or cylinders attached to a carrying frame and harness worn by the user. Air is provided to the user through a face mask, which can be adjusted to give an airtight fit. A pressure gauge indicates the pressure in the cylinder and an audible alarm sounds when the supply is running low. Only positive pressure type sets are recomm...

1. EVACUATION FROM ENCLOSED OR CONFINED SPACES If any of the conditions that are stated on the permit for entering the space change, or the conditions in the tank are suspected of becoming unsafe after personnel have entered the enclose or confined space, they should be ordered to leave the space immediately and not be permitted to reenter until the situation has been re-evaluated and the safe conditions stated on the enclose or confined space work permit have been restored. 2. RESCUE FROM ENCLOSED OR CONFINED SPACES When an accident involving injury to personnel occurs in a dangerous space, the first action must be to raise the alarm. Although speed is often vital in the interests of saving life, rescue operations should not be attempted until the necessary assistance and equipment has been mustered. There are many examples of lives being lost through hasty, ill-prepared rescue attempts. Prior organisation is of great value in arranging quick and effective response. Lifelines, r...

Before allowing access to the space, the responsible officer should ensure that: Appropriate atmosphere checks have been carried out. Piping, inert gas and ventilation systems have been isolated. Effective ventilation will be maintained continuously while the enclosed space is occupied. Fixed lighting, such as air-turbo lights, are ready for extended entry periods Approved self-contained, positive pressure breathing apparatus and resuscitation equipment is ready for use at the entrance to the space. A rescue harness, complete with lifeline, is ready for immediate use at the entrance to the space. Fully-charged safety torch is ready for immediate use at the entrance to the space. A responsible member of the crew is in constant attendance outside the enclosed space, in the immediate vicinity of the entrance and in direct contact with a responsible officer. These persons should be trained in the actions to be taken in the event of an emergency. Lines of communications have ...