9.State the safety requirements for small lockers on open deck storing petrol and other highly inflammable liquids in hand portable containers.
(10)
Safety Requirements for Small Lockers on Open Deck Storing Petrol and Other Highly Inflammable Liquids in Hand Portable Containers (10 marks)
- Location on open deck
- Lockers must be situated on open deck, away from accommodation, machinery spaces, and any ignition sources.
- They must be readily accessible in case of emergency and not located near air intakes or ventilation openings.
- Ventilation
- Each locker must be adequately ventilated at both high and low levels directly to the open air.
- This allows heavier-than-air vapours (from petrol) to drain safely overboard and prevents accumulation inside the locker.
- Construction and materials
- The locker must be made of gas-tight steel or aluminium, with spark-proof fittings.
- It must be weathertight to prevent water ingress while allowing vapour escape through vents.
- Lockers should be vapor-tight to the ship’s interior and have fire-resisting boundaries where adjacent to other spaces.
- Drainage
- Any drainage system must lead overboard, never into bilges or machinery spaces.
- Drain outlets must be arranged so vapours and liquids cannot flow back toward the vessel.
- Securing of containers
- Containers must be properly secured within the locker to prevent movement due to ship motion.
- Only the minimum number of containers required for operational purposes should be stored.
- Container standards
- All containers must be approved for marine use, clearly marked “Highly Flammable,” and fitted with leak-tight caps.
- Plastic containers must be anti-static and certified for petrol or solvent storage.
- Segregation of incompatible substances
- Petrol and other flammable liquids must not be stowed with compressed gases, oxidisers, or lubricants.
- Separate lockers should be used for different classes of dangerous goods.
- Ignition source control
- No electrical fittings, wiring, or switches should be installed inside the locker.
- Smoking, naked flames, and hot work are strictly prohibited nearby.
- Bonding and earthing
- The locker should be electrically bonded to the ship’s earth to prevent static build-up and reduce ignition risk during handling or transfer operations.
- Marking, signage, and inspection
- Each locker must display a warning notice:
“Highly Flammable – No Smoking or Naked Lights.” - Lockers and containers should be regularly inspected for corrosion, leaks, and proper securing arrangements, and records maintained.