Enclosed-space death toll continues to rise

Deaths caused by entering enclosed spaces on ships with unbreathable or toxic atmospheres continue to occur with ?relentless regularity? according to a report issued by North of England P&I club.

“Few aspects of personal safety of personal safety on ships have received more attention than the importance of following correct procedures before entering an enclosed space” says loss prevention executive Tony Baker. “Unfortunately fatalities and serious injuries continue to happen with relentless regularity ? all of which could have been prevented if the correct procedures had been followed.”

The North of England has repeatedly reminded its members of the dangers, including a special issue of Signals newsletter, three Signal Experiences accident case studies and two safety posters. “Serious efforts have also been made by many different sectors of the shipping industry to raise awareness of the dangers. Despite all these efforts, the death toll continues to mount,” says Baker.

“What is most discouraging is that enclosed space accidents often involve highly qualified and experience seafarers as well as surveyors and stevedores,” he says. “Almost all people who die in enclosed spaces have received training and are well aware of the correct procedures. In the agony of the moment, they choose to disregard them.”

The club has reprinted in full the IMO?s November 1997 guidelines Recommendations for Entering Enclosed Spaces Aboard Ships (Resolution A.864(20)). This contains advice on assessment of risk, testing of atmospheres, precautions during entry and hazards relating to specific types of cargo ? including oxygen-depleting cargoes such as grain, timber and coal.