The updated legislation concerning the safety of seafarers in enclosed spaces marks a significant enhancement of existing requirements under international maritime law, reflecting the UK’s commitment to seafarer welfare. Enclosed spaces—defined as any confined areas such as chain lockers, cargo holds, duct keels, and water tanks that lack adequate ventilation—pose serious risks to those who work in them.
From 2009 to 2019, six fatalities occurred in UK ports due to incidents in such areas, prompting the introduction of this new legislation. While working in enclosed spaces is essential for many maritime operations, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) is dedicated to minimizing associated hazards. This legislation aims to improve safety protocols for seafarers and will replace previous regulations to ensure stricter protective measures are in place.
Central to the new regulations are provisions requiring ships to implement regular safety drills and furnish atmosphere testing equipment to assess the conditions within enclosed spaces. Recognizing the high risk to health and safety faced by seafarers, the MCA has expanded these guidelines to a broader array of vessels, moving beyond the scope of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS). Fishing vessels are now included in these requirements, mandating the establishment of safe systems for entering confined spaces.
The effective dates for these regulations are set for 14 May 2022 for SOLAS-covered vessels and 14 May 2023 for all other applicable ships. These timelines allow operators sufficient time to comply with the newly instituted safety measures.
Katy Ware, Director of Maritime Services, emphasized the agency’s ongoing commitment to seafarer safety, acknowledging the inherent dangers of working in enclosed spaces. She noted that heightened awareness and proactive steps are crucial to reducing fatalities associated with these environments. The regulations are designed to reframe existing standards across the maritime sector, reinforcing that safety remains a top priority.
In addition to the legislation, the MCA has released Marine Guidance Note 659 (M+F), which delves deeper into the regulatory requirements and expectations for safe practices regarding entry into enclosed spaces. To further support awareness and compliance, the MCA has also made available leaflets and posters at no cost via their webshop, aimed at educating maritime workers about safe procedures.
Overall, the new legislation represents a proactive step forward in safeguarding the health and safety of seafarers, addressing known risks in enclosed spaces, and ensuring comprehensive protection measures are in place across the maritime industry.
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