Page 150 - ΝΑΥΤΙΚΑ ΧΡΟΝΙΚΑ - ΜΑΙΟΣ 2023

HORIZON FROM THE BRIDGE

ing to shortcuts being taken testing the atmosphere and personnel entry
- monitoring equipment not used or not into the space. A single permit for entry into
working properly; and more than one enclosed space may be issued
- improper action in an emergency as defined in the company’s SMS. However, this
Prior to entering an enclosed space, all person- should only be applicable for entry into cargo
nel who are to be involved in the work should tanks. While working in enclosed spaces, venti-
meet to: lation should be continuous while personnel are
- define the purpose of entering the space inside the space, and the atmosphere should be
- identify the steps required to achieve the monitored at appropriate intervals, including
purpose using personal multi-gas detectors. If personnel
- identify the risks involved begin to feel dizzy or unwell, they should leave
- develop a plan of action and agree on the space immediately.
responsibilities In particular, tests should be done before resum-
Before allowing personnel to enter an enclosed ing work after a break and prior to re-entry.
space, an entry permit should be issued. It is When personnel need rescue from an enclosed
recommended that the permit be signed by the space, the first action of the person assigned
master or a designated officer with sufficient as the attendant should be to raise the alarm.
knowledge and experience on the procedure’s Although speed is often vital in saving a life,
compliance requirements. rescue operations should not be attempted until
The entry permit should contain a clear indica- assistance has arrived and a planned approach
tion as to its maximum period of validity, which can be made. There are many examples of lives
should not exceed 8 hours. It should also lost over the years through hasty, ill-prepared
describe the maximum permitted time between rescue attempts. The rescue team should com-
prise dedicated personnel appropriately drilled
and trained in all aspects of enclosed space
rescue, including resuscitation equipment.
All team members should be familiar with the
ship’s SMS and operating and emergency pro-
cedures. Although a dedicated team offers major
advantages, it is essential to designate backup
personnel that can replace a member(s) of the
dedicated team when they are unavailable.
Regular training of the emergency rescue team
is essential to ensure a successful enclosed
space rescue. Emergency rescue team members
should be:
- prepared for the physical and technical
demands of enclosed space rescue
- well trained in all rescue team duties
- familiar with the use and deployment of
rescue equipment that should be of a size
and weight to allow its ready deployment
into the enclosed space and placement in
any location where work may take place
- capable of fulfilling any role within the
rescue team
Enclosed spaces on board ships are an insidi-
ous enemy that lurks and waits for the error of
any crew member. Our greatest ally in neutralis-
ing this enemy and minimising the possibility of
human error is the continuous training of sea-
farers - especially those serving on dry cargo
ships - in following the entry procedure but, most
importantly, in observing the entry prohibition
unless a special permit has been issued and the
chief officer has ordered the entry.

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