Answer SSEP Question 41
Q41. A. A hydraulically operated ballast tank valve situated in the duct keel has failed to close. State as Second Engineer your procedure for directing safe entry by engine room staff to the duct keel to ascertain the cause and possibility to carry out a repair.
B. State if any procedure is to be followed before making an entry, and the relevant IMO code under which such procedure is required.
Ans:Part A
As the Second Engineer, ensuring the safety of the engine room staff during this operation is paramount. Here's the procedure I would follow for directing safe entry to the duct keel to ascertain the cause of the failure and assess the possibility of carrying out a repair:
Assess the Situation: Evaluate the severity of the failure and potential risks associated with entering the duct keel. Consider factors such as the stability of the vessel, depth of water, and any other hazards present.
Isolate the Area: Before any personnel entry, isolate the affected ballast tank from the rest of the system to prevent any further complications or accidents. This may involve closing off associated valves and securing the area.
Ensure Proper Ventilation: If possible, ensure that there is adequate ventilation in the duct keel to prevent the accumulation of hazardous gases or lack of oxygen.
Issue Safety Briefing: Conduct a thorough safety briefing with the engine room staff who will be involved in the entry. Emphasize the importance of following safety procedures, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), communication protocols, and emergency procedures.
Equip Personnel: Provide personnel with appropriate safety equipment, including safety harnesses, helmets, gloves, and safety boots. Ensure that they have the necessary tools and equipment for the task at hand.
Implement Entry Control Measures: Establish a system for controlling entry into the duct keel, including assigning a designated entry supervisor who will oversee the operation and maintain communication with personnel inside the space.
Monitor Conditions: Continuously monitor conditions inside the duct keel, including gas levels, temperature, and structural integrity. Have contingency plans in place for any unforeseen emergencies.
Perform Entry in Pairs: Personnel should enter the duct keel in pairs to provide mutual assistance and support in case of emergencies. They should maintain constant communication with the entry supervisor outside the space.
Investigate the Cause: Once inside the duct keel, carefully inspect the hydraulically operated ballast tank valve to ascertain the cause of the failure. Document any findings and report them to the Chief Engineer for further analysis.
Assess Repair Feasibility: Evaluate whether it is safe and feasible to carry out repairs to the valve while the vessel is at sea. Consider factors such as available resources, time constraints, and potential risks.
Implement Repairs if Possible: If it is deemed safe and feasible, proceed with repairing the valve using appropriate tools and equipment. Follow established procedures and guidelines for carrying out repairs in confined spaces.
Complete Entry and Exit Safely: Once the task is completed, ensure that all personnel exit the duct keel safely. Conduct a debriefing session to review the operation and identify any lessons learned for future reference.
By following these steps, we can ensure the safety of the engine room staff while investigating the cause of the valve failure and assessing the possibility of carrying out a repair in the duct keel.
Part B:
Before making an entry into confined spaces such as the duct keel, it is essential to follow procedures outlined in the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Resolution A.1050(27) - Revised Recommendations for Entering Enclosed Spaces aboard Ships. This resolution provides guidelines for the safe entry into confined spaces on board ships to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of personnel.
According to IMO Resolution A.1050(27), the following procedures must be followed before making an entry into a confined space:
Risk Assessment: Conduct a thorough risk assessment of the confined space, considering factors such as atmospheric conditions, presence of hazardous substances, structural integrity, and emergency procedures.
Entry Permit: Issue an entry permit authorizing personnel to enter the confined space. The entry permit should include details of the confined space, associated hazards, safety measures to be implemented, and the duration of the entry.
Safety Precautions: Implement appropriate safety precautions, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), atmospheric monitoring equipment, ventilation systems, and communication devices.
Buddy System: Ensure that personnel enter the confined space in pairs or teams to provide mutual assistance and support in case of emergencies.
Training and Briefing: Provide personnel with adequate training on the hazards associated with confined spaces and conduct a thorough safety briefing before entry. Emphasize the importance of following safety procedures and maintaining communication throughout the operation.
Emergency Rescue Plan: Develop an emergency rescue plan outlining procedures for evacuating personnel in case of emergencies such as atmospheric hazards, equipment failure, or injury.
Continuous Monitoring: Continuously monitor conditions inside the confined space, including atmospheric conditions, temperature, and structural integrity. Have contingency plans in place for responding to changing conditions.
Entry Supervisor: Assign a designated entry supervisor who will oversee the entry operation, maintain communication with personnel inside the confined space, and coordinate rescue efforts if necessary.
By following these procedures outlined in IMO Resolution A.1050(27), we can ensure the safe entry of personnel into confined spaces such as the duct keel and mitigate the risks associated with such operations.
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