Hotel Service Unit 3 Q3

Routine inspections of machinery located in remote unmanned spaces are periodic physical checks conducted by engineers or qualified personnel to ensure the proper operation and maintenance of equipment situated in areas not continuously manned, such as:

• Cargo holds
• Ballast tanks
• Cofferdams
• Voids
• Other inaccessible or rarely accessed areas of the vessel

These inspections are crucial even in unmanned spaces equipped with remote monitoring and control systems because:

1. Verification of Sensor Data:

• While sensors provide valuable information, they can malfunction or give inaccurate readings. Physical inspections confirm the actual condition of the machinery and validate the data transmitted by sensors.   1. Sensor faults – Bora Kizil – Medium borakizil.medium.com

2. Early Detection of Issues:

• Certain issues, like leaks, corrosion, or wear and tear, might not be immediately apparent through remote monitoring. Regular inspections allow for the identification and early resolution of such problems before they escalate.   1. How Drones Are Used For Infrastructure Inspection – Skydio www.skydio.com

3. Preventive Maintenance:

• Even with remote monitoring, machinery in unmanned spaces still requires regular maintenance, such as lubrication, cleaning, and adjustments. These tasks often necessitate physical access for visual checks and hands-on interventions.

4. Emergency Preparedness:

• In case of emergencies or system failures, engineers need to be familiar with the layout and condition of the machinery spaces to facilitate effective response and troubleshooting. Regular inspections aid in this familiarity.

5. Regulatory Compliance:

• Many classification societies and flag states mandate periodic physical inspections of machinery spaces, even in unmanned environments, to verify compliance with safety standards and confirm the effectiveness of remote monitoring systems.

Specific tasks during routine inspections:

• Visual checks of machinery and equipment for any signs of damage, leaks, corrosion, or wear.   1. Strategies for Visual Inspections of Heavy Equipment www.boomandbucket.com
• Checking fluid levels and condition (e.g., oil, coolant).
• Verifying functionality of alarms, safety devices, and control systems.
• Listening for abnormal noises or vibrations.
• Performing minor maintenance tasks or adjustments as needed.
• Documenting findings and reporting any concerns or issues.

Frequency of inspections:

The frequency of routine inspections varies depending on the type of machinery, its criticality, and the recommendations of manufacturers and classification societies. However, it’s typically done at regular intervals, ranging from daily to monthly or even less frequent for certain equipment.

Overall, routine inspections of machinery in remote unmanned spaces are an essential part of maintaining the safety, reliability, and efficiency of a vessel’s operations, even with the presence of advanced monitoring and control systems.

To ensure the safety of personnel entering unmanned machinery spaces (UMS), several essential precautions should be meticulously followed:

1. Communication and Monitoring:

• Inform the Bridge: Before entering the space, the person must inform the bridge team of their intention, providing details about the reason for entry and estimated duration. This ensures constant awareness and enables timely assistance in case of emergencies.   1. Key procedures for Unattended Machinery Spaces – SAFETY4SEA safety4sea.com
• Carry Communication Device: The person should carry a reliable means of communication, such as a portable radio or a dedicated UMS communication device, to maintain contact with the bridge or other designated crew members.
• Regular Check-ins: While in the machinery space, maintain regular communication with the bridge or other designated personnel, providing updates on their status and any observations or concerns.
• Deadman Alarm: If available, activate a deadman alarm system, which automatically triggers an alarm if the person becomes incapacitated or fails to reset it within a predetermined interval. This enables prompt response and potential rescue.   1. Key procedures for Unattended Machinery Spaces – SAFETY4SEA safety4sea.com

2. Access Control and Isolation:

• “Manned Engine Room” Mode: If the UMS system has a “manned engine room” mode, activate it to alert the system that someone is present, potentially adjusting alarm thresholds or initiating additional safety measures.
• Limited Access: Entry into the UMS should be restricted to authorized and trained personnel only.
• Secure Entry Points: Ensure all access points to the machinery space are properly secured and locked to prevent unauthorized entry while someone is inside.

3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

• Appropriate PPE: The person entering the UMS should wear suitable PPE based on the identified hazards and the tasks to be performed. This may include safety shoes, hard hats, eye protection, gloves, hearing protection, and potentially respiratory protection if necessary.
• Proper Fit and Condition: Ensure all PPE is in good condition, fits correctly, and provides adequate protection.

4. Awareness and Training:

• Familiarization: Personnel entering the UMS should be familiar with the space’s layout, emergency exits, and the location of safety equipment.
• UMS System Training: Adequate training on the operation and potential hazards of the UMS system is essential for anyone entering the space.
• Emergency Procedures: All personnel should be well-versed in the emergency procedures for the UMS, including evacuation, fire response, and rescue operations.

5. Additional Precautions:

• Buddy System: Whenever possible, have at least two people enter the UMS together for mutual support and safety.
• Visual Inspection: Before entering, conduct a visual inspection from the entrance to identify any obvious hazards or unusual conditions.
• Lighting: Ensure adequate lighting is available within the UMS, especially in areas with limited natural light.
• Confined Space Entry Procedures: If the UMS or any part of it is considered a confined space, follow additional confined space entry procedures, including atmospheric testing and ventilation.

By strictly adhering to these precautions and ensuring proper training and communication, the safety of personnel entering unmanned machinery spaces can be significantly enhanced, minimizing the risks associated with working in these potentially hazardous environments.

At the entrance of unmanned machinery spaces (UMS), the following notices should be prominently posted to ensure safety and awareness:

1. “Unmanned Machinery Space” Notice: This sign clearly indicates that the space is unmanned and subject to specific safety procedures.
2. “Entry Restricted to Authorized Personnel Only” Notice: This emphasizes that access is limited to individuals with proper training and authorization to enter the UMS.
3. “Manned Engine Room” Mode Activation Instructions: If applicable, clear instructions on how to activate the “manned engine room” mode should be displayed to alert the UMS system of human presence.
4. Emergency Contact Information: The notice should include the contact details of the bridge team or other designated personnel to be informed before entering and in case of emergencies.
5. Safety Precautions and PPE Requirements: A list of specific safety precautions to be followed, including any required personal protective equipment (PPE), should be clearly displayed.
6. Emergency Procedures: A summary of emergency procedures for the UMS, including evacuation routes and actions to be taken in case of fire, flooding, or other emergencies, should be readily available at the entrance.
7. Confined Space Entry Warnings: If the UMS or any part of it is considered a confined space, additional warnings and instructions related to confined space entry procedures, such as atmospheric testing and ventilation requirements, should be posted.
8. “Do Not Enter” Sign: A clear “Do Not Enter” sign should be used when the space is unsafe for entry due to maintenance, repairs, or other hazardous conditions.

These notices serve as crucial reminders and instructions for personnel approaching the UMS, promoting safety awareness and ensuring that proper procedures are followed before and during entry.

In the context of routine inspections of machinery, the term “Machinery Space” refers to any enclosed area onboard a vessel that houses the ship’s propulsion and auxiliary machinery, along with associated systems and equipment. This typically includes, but is not limited to:

• Engine Rooms: Containing main engines, generators, and other primary propulsion machinery
• Auxiliary Machinery Spaces: Housing various pumps, compressors, boilers, and other systems essential for ship operation
• Control Rooms: Where machinery operations are monitored and controlled remotely
• Workshops and Stores: Used for maintenance and storage of machinery-related tools and equipment
• Other enclosed spaces: Any other areas that contain machinery or equipment critical to the ship’s function, even if they are not continuously manned

The definition of “Machinery Space” is important in distinguishing it from other enclosed spaces on a vessel, such as cargo holds, ballast tanks, or accommodation areas. Routine inspections of machinery spaces focus specifically on the condition, operation, and maintenance of the machinery and systems within those designated areas.