Web Alert: Riyadh MOU PSC CIC on crew familiarisation for enclosed space entry

Further to the club’s previous update on Tokyo & Paris MOU PSC concentrated inspection campaigns, the Riyadh MOU (member countries: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia & UAE) has announced it will be launching a CIC on crew familiarisation for enclosed space entry, to run from 1 September 2017 to 30 November 2017.

The aim of this campaign is to ensure that ships comply with the requirements for enclosed spaces detailed in the Annex to IMO Resolution A.1050 (27). Members should ensure that the procedures for entering enclosed spaces are included among the key shipboard operations concerning the safety of the personnel and the ship. The safety management system should elaborate a procedural implementation scheme which provides for training in the use of atmospheric testing equipment in such spaces and a schedule of regular onboard drills for crews.

As mentioned under SOLAS regulation III/19 (effective 1 January 2015), crew members are required to participate in an enclosed space entry and rescue drill on board the ship at least once every two months. Only trained personnel should be assigned the duties of entering, functioning as attendants or functioning as members of rescue teams.

Also, in accordance with SOLAS Regulation XI-1/7 (effective 1 July 2016), every ship to which SOLAS Chapter I applies is required to carry an appropriate portable atmosphere testing instrument. As a minimum, such instrument(s) shall be capable of measuring concentrations of oxygen, flammable gases or vapours (%LEL), hydrogen sulphide and carbon monoxide prior to entry into enclosed spaces.

Members are also recommended to refer to the club’s latest master’s guide to enclosed space entry for further details.

The port state control officers will use the attached questionnaire to establish that crew members are familiar with the relevant equipment and have received training to allow them to identify and understand the hazards associated with enclosed space entry. If a deficiency is found, actions by the port state may vary from recording a deficiency and instructing the master to rectify it within a certain period to detention of the ship until the deficiency has been rectified.
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