The NFPA Technical Committee on Gas Hazards is currently working on the First Draft of the upcoming edition of NFPA 306, the Standard for the Control of Gas Hazards on Vessels. This development coincides with the centennial of the NFPA Certificated Marine Chemist Program, which has played a crucial role in fire protection and life safety aboard marine vessels, in shipyards, and at waterfront facilities.
The origins of this program trace back to post-World War I when ship conversions from troop transport to cargo vessels led to several catastrophic fires and explosions. Recognizing the dangers, stakeholders such as vessel owners, shipyards, and insurers sought NFPA’s help in creating a standard for fire prevention specific to marine environments. This led to the adoption of the “Regulations Governing Marine Fire Hazards” in 1922, which mandated that any tank undergoing hot work must be inspected by a certified marine chemist.
Initially employed primarily in petroleum refineries, these chemists were adept at understanding and managing the properties of flammable materials. In 1963, NFPA assumed full responsibility for the training and certification of marine chemists by establishing the Marine Chemist Qualification Board (MCQB). Comprised of members from various sectors, including marine insurance, the MCQB is responsible for certifying marine chemists and reviewing accident reports.
Marine chemists possess specialized knowledge that enables them to evaluate hazardous conditions in tanks and compartments. Using NFPA 306 as a guideline, they conduct job-site hazard analyses (JHAs) to identify risks such as oxygen deficiency, flammable gases, and toxic vapors. Upon completing the analysis, they issue a Marine Chemist’s Certificate, which is essential for conducting hot work in areas that may contain flammable substances.
There are currently 93 NFPA Certificated Marine Chemists operating across the continental U.S., Hawaii, Alaska, and Guam, issuing around 31,000 certificates annually. With the 2024 edition of NFPA 306 under revision, the program continues its legacy, enhancing worker safety and fire prevention practices in marine environments.
The centennial celebration of the program serves as a testament to the enduring partnership between industry and government, reinforcing the marine chemist’s critical role in ensuring safe working conditions on vessels and at marine facilities. As it embarks on its second century, the program is set to uphold the core principles of NFPA 306, safeguarding marine workers and infrastructure against fire hazards. For more information about the NFPA Certificated Marine Chemist Program and NFPA 306, interested parties can visit the NFPA website.
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