Ship Safety & Security

This publication addresses one of the most important aspects, namely entry into enclosed spaces. Unfortunately, the challenge of safe entry into such spaces has tragically been there with the shipping industry for too many years. We do not even know how many seamen, marine surveyors, stevedores and even shore-side workers and shore-based personnel have lost their lives in the enclosed spaces located on board ships and offshore rigs; what we know is that there are dozens of fatalities occurring every year.

That is why it is considered imperative for all newcomers to the maritime and offshore industries to learn at the earliest possible stage about all potential dangers connected with entering into such spaces. People whose job involves entering the enclosed spaces shall clearly understand and realize all consequences of being poorly prepared. It goes without saying that absolutely no enclosed space may be entered without due precautions taken. Such precautions reduce the risk associated with entering enclosed spaces and may save your life; that is why this training is essential. The present guide was specifically released to assist the seafarers to enter the enclosed spaces in a safe way...

The present small yet quite useful brochure will give its readers the required basic instructions on the proper implementation of the effective safety culture in the shipping companies, as outlined in the requirements of the IMO ISM Code. The original intention of the authors of the document was to assist the staff members of the shipping companies, including manager and actual seafarers in fulfilling the both the letter and spirit of the above stated Code.

The ISM Code has become mandatory through the SOLAS. That is one of the reasons of the significant reduction in the number of marine casualties and oil spills - and the most positive factor was the reduction in the number of human lives lost at sea. However, it should be noted that the full implementation of the safety culture is still considered a serious issue that shall be addressed by the shipping companies paying additional attention to this.

It would generally include the need for all people concerned to properly understand and feel how the serious marine incidents and unsafe acts are related can result in a loss of human life or serious damage to the vessel or transported cargo, as well as to the serious environmental issues. We would also like to underline the importance of changing attitude and avoidance of negative behavior as well as complacency towards the safety at sea and protection of the environment...