Hotel Service Unit 1 Q2

Enclosed Space:

• Definition: An enclosed space is any area with limited openings for entry and exit that is not designed for continuous human occupancy. It can create or aggravate hazardous conditions due to limited ventilation and potential accumulation of dangerous gases or substances.   1. Confined Spaces – Overview | Occupational Safety and Health Administration www.osha.gov2. Working in Confined Spaces – Health and Safety Authority www.hsa.ie
• Examples: Cargo holds, tanks, pump or engine rooms, storage lockers, quarters, machinery, and boiler spaces.   1. Enclosed spaces on sea-going vessels – GOV.UK www.gov.uk

Confined Space:

• Definition: A confined space is a type of enclosed space with additional hazards, making it potentially more dangerous. It is characterized by:   1. What is a Confined Space – Types & Examples – NIST Global Pvt Ltd nistglobal.com
  • Limited or restricted means of entry and exit   1. OSHA Confined Spaces Advisor Definitions – U.S. Department of Labor webapps.dol.gov
  • Not designed for continuous human occupancy
  • Large enough for a person to enter and perform work
  • Potential to contain or accumulate hazardous atmospheres (e.g., toxic gases, flammable vapors, oxygen deficiency)   1. Hazardous atmospheres and confined spaces | Health and safety in farming operations www.ontario.ca
  • Potential for engulfment (e.g., by liquids or free-flowing solids)   1. 1910.146 – Permit-required confined spaces | Occupational Safety and Health Administration www.osha.gov
  • Other recognized serious safety or health hazards
• Examples: Tanks, double bottom spaces, cofferdams, manholes, ductwork, and voids.   1. Does “Subpart B – Confined and Enclosed Spaces and Other Dangerous Atmospheres in Shipyard Employment” Apply to You? – North Carolina Department of Labor www.labor.nc.gov

Key Points:

• Both enclosed and confined spaces can be dangerous due to limited ventilation, potential for hazardous atmospheres, and difficulties in entry/exit and rescue.
• Confined spaces present additional hazards that require specific safety procedures and precautions before entry.   1. Introduction to working in confined spaces – HSE www.hse.gov.uk
• Entry into confined spaces should only be undertaken after a thorough risk assessment and with appropriate permits, training, equipment, and supervision.   1. Do You Need a Permit to Work to Enter Confined Space? – MRS Training & Rescue www.mrsl.co.uk

Remember: Safety is paramount when working in enclosed or confined spaces. Adhering to established procedures, utilizing appropriate equipment, and maintaining constant communication are crucial for preventing accidents and ensuring the well-being of those entering these potentially hazardous environments.  

1. Confined space safety precautions – Healthy Working Lives

2. Confined Space: Understanding Hazards and Safety Measures – Caring For Care

According to the Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seafarers, the atmosphere of any enclosed space is potentially dangerous for the following reasons:

• Oxygen Deficiency or Enrichment:
  • Enclosed spaces may have reduced oxygen levels due to consumption by rusting, decaying organic matter, or chemical reactions. This can lead to asphyxiation.
  • Conversely, oxygen enrichment can create a fire hazard as it increases the flammability of materials.
• Presence of Toxic Gases or Vapors:
  • Enclosed spaces can accumulate toxic gases from various sources, including:
    • Cargo residues
    • Fuel or oil leaks
    • Cleaning agents
    • Chemical reactions
    • Decomposition of organic matter
  • Exposure to these toxic substances can cause immediate or long-term health effects, including poisoning, respiratory problems, or even death.
• Flammable Gases or Vapors:
  • Flammable gases or vapors may be present in enclosed spaces due to:
    • Fuel or oil spills
    • Cargo residues
    • Cleaning agents
    • Chemical reactions
  • If these accumulate and reach their flammable range, any ignition source (spark, flame, or hot surface) can trigger an explosion or fire.
• Inadequate Ventilation:
  • Enclosed spaces often have limited natural ventilation, which can lead to the buildup of hazardous atmospheres.
  • Even with mechanical ventilation, stagnant areas or pockets of gas can still exist.

Therefore, it’s crucial to always treat the atmosphere in enclosed spaces as potentially dangerous and take necessary precautions before entry, including:

• Having a standby person and rescue plan in place
• Conducting a thorough risk assessment
• Testing the atmosphere for oxygen levels, toxic gases, and flammable vapors
• Ventilating the space adequately
• Using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)

Before entering a potentially dangerous enclosed or confined space, the Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seafarers outlines several crucial precautions that must be taken to ensure the safety of those entering and working within the space:

1. Risk Assessment and Permit-to-Work:

• A thorough risk assessment must be conducted to identify all potential hazards and evaluate the risks associated with entering the space.
• A Permit-to-Work system should be implemented, requiring authorization and documentation before entry is permitted. This ensures that all necessary precautions have been considered and implemented.

2. Isolation and Securing the Space:

• The space must be effectively isolated from all potential sources of energy or hazardous substances, such as pipelines, electrical circuits, or machinery.
• The isolation should be verified and clearly indicated with appropriate signage and locks.
• Measures should be taken to prevent unauthorized entry or accidental release of energy or substances while work is in progress.

3. Ventilation:

• The space should be thoroughly ventilated to ensure a safe atmosphere for breathing and to prevent the accumulation of hazardous gases or vapors.
• Forced ventilation may be required, and the atmosphere should be continuously monitored during entry and work.

4. Atmospheric Testing:

• The atmosphere within the space must be tested for oxygen levels, toxic gases, and flammable vapors before entry and at regular intervals during work.
• The testing equipment should be calibrated and suitable for the specific hazards present.
• If the atmosphere is found to be unsafe, appropriate measures must be taken to correct the conditions before entry is permitted.

5. Communication and Monitoring:

• A reliable communication system should be established between those inside the space and a standby person outside.
• The standby person should continuously monitor the situation and be ready to initiate rescue procedures if necessary.

6. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

• Appropriate PPE, such as breathing apparatus, protective clothing, gloves, and safety harnesses, must be worn by those entering the space.
• The PPE should be suitable for the specific hazards identified and maintained in good condition.

7. Emergency Procedures and Rescue Plan:

• A well-defined emergency procedure and rescue plan should be in place, outlining the steps to be taken in case of an accident or emergency within the space.
• Rescue equipment, such as lifting gear or breathing apparatus, should be readily available and accessible.
• Personnel involved should be trained in emergency procedures and rescue techniques.

8. Competent Personnel:

• Only trained and competent personnel should be permitted to enter and work in enclosed or confined spaces.
• They should be aware of the hazards involved, the precautions to be taken, and the emergency procedures to follow.

By diligently adhering to these precautions outlined in the Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seafarers, the risks associated with entering enclosed or confined spaces can be significantly minimized, ensuring the safety and well-being of seafarers and promoting a safe working environment on board ships.