Safety Measures to be followed by personnel on entry into enclosed spaces following Recent Incidents at Indian Ports

Applicable to: Ship owners, operators, masters, crews, port authorities, and stevedores at Indian ports

Effective Date: 2024-01-07

Superseded Circulars: None

Safety Measures for Enclosed Space Entry

1. Access Control and Marking

Ensure all enclosed and restricted spaces are not accessed by shore personnel without authorization. Booby hatches of unused cargo holds should be kept closed and locked. All accesses should be adequately marked.

Vessels: Control access, keep booby hatches closed and locked, and mark accesses.
Shore personnel: Do not enter enclosed spaces without authorization and proper marking.

2. Interface with Shore Personnel and Briefing

Vessels must ensure adequate interface with shore personnel, discussing all aspects of cargo operations with port representatives. Ports must brief shore gangs about cargo nature, restricted areas, and enclosed space dangers.

Vessels: Discuss cargo operations with port representatives and ensure medical equipment is available.
Ports: Brief shore gangs about cargo nature, restricted areas, and enclosed space dangers.

II/4 Enclosed Space Entry Procedures

Ensure enclosed space entry procedures are complied with prior to entry into any enclosed spaces.

II/5 Medical Services and Training

Ports must ensure sufficient medical services, emergency personnel, and adequate training for stevedores and port workers about enclosed space hazards and cargo hazards.

Important Note

Non-compliance with these guidelines may attract appropriate action. All ports must develop and implement Standard Operating Procedures and Safety Protocols for stevedores.

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