The International Maritime Organization (IMO). The IMO's primary purpose is to develop and maintain a comprehensive regulatory framework for shipping and its remit today includes safety, environmental concerns, legal matters, technical co-operation, maritime security and the efficiency of shipping.
What is a code?
This is a set of rules to follow
What is a convention?
A convention is a special type of treaty or agreement between many countries. Many countries of the world begin discussions on a global issue and reach a consensus regarding procedures and actions they all agree to follow.
What is the difference between IMO Convention and a Code?
The essential difference between a convention and a code is that the former becomes mandatory for Contracting Parties once it enters into force (which happens when a specified number of States has accepted it). Acceptance involves making the provisions of the convention part of national law (the aim being to standardize national maritime laws as widely as possible). A code, on the other hand, is normally recommendatory unless it is made mandatory under the provisions of a Convention.
SOLAS
What is SOLAS?
The International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) is an international maritime safety treaty. It ensures that ships flagged by signatory States comply with minimum safety standards in construction, equipment and operation. The SOLAS Convention in its successive forms is generally regarded as the most important of all international treaties concerning the safety of merchant ships.
What does SOLAS consist of?
The SOLAS chapters are:
Chapter I General provisions
Chapter II-1 Construction: subdivision and stability, machinery and electrical installations
Chapter II-2 Construction: fire protection, fire detection and fire extinction
Chapter III Life saving appliances and arrangements
Chapter IV Radio communications
Chapter V Safety of Navigation
Chapter VICarriage of grain
Chapter VII Carriage of dangerous goods
Chapter VIII Nuclear ships
Chapter IX Management for the safe operations of ships
Chapter X Safety measures for high-speed craft
Chapter XI Special measures to enhance maritime safety
Chapter XI-2Special measures to enhance maritime security
Chapter XIIAdditional safety measures for bulk carriers
What is a lifeboat? What types of lifeboats?
Lifeboat is one of the most important life-saving equipments onboard a ship, which is used at the time of extreme emergencies for abandoning a ship. Lifeboat is a smaller rigid vessel, secured onboard into davits so that it can be launched over the side of the ship with least time and mechanical assistance possible for an early escape of the crew from the ship. A ship must carry one rescue boat for the rescuing purpose, along with other lifeboats. One of the lifeboats can be designated as a rescue boat, if more than two or more lifeboats are present onboard a ship.
There are three types of lifeboats used on merchant vessels: the open lifeboat has no roof and is normally propelled by manual power by using hand propelled ores, closed lifeboats are classified as – partially enclosed and fully enclosed lifeboats.
Free fall lifeboat is similar to an enclosed lifeboat but the process of launching is entirely different. They are aerodynamic in nature and thus the boat can penetrate the water without damaging the body when launched from the ship. The free fall life boat is located at the aft of the ship, which provides a maximum clear area for free fall.
SOlAS requirements for lifeboat
¨ The size, number and the capacity of the lifeboat for a merchant vessel is decided by the type of the ship and number of ship’s crew, but it should not be less then 7.3 m in length and minimum two lifeboats are provided on both side of the ship (port and starboard).
¨ -The requirement for lifeboat of a cargo ship with 20,000 GT is that the boat must be capable of launching when the ship is heading with a speed of 5 knots.
¨ -The lifeboat must carry all the equipments described under SOLAS which can be used in survival at sea. It includes rations, fresh water, first aid, compass, distress signalling equipments like rocket etc.
¨ -The ship must carry one rescue boat for rescue purpose along with other lifeboats. One lifeboat can be designated as a rescue boat if more then one lifeboat is present onboard ship.
¨ -The gravity davits must be hold and slide down the lifeboat even when the ship is heeled to an angle of 15 degree on either side. Ropes are used to hold the lifeboat in stowed position with cradle. These ropes are called gripes.
¨ -The wires which lift or lower the lifeboat are known as falls and the speed of the lifeboat descent should not be more then 36m/ min which is controlled by means of centrifugal brakes.
¨ -The hoisting time for the boat launching appliance should not be less than 0.3 m/sec with the boat loaded to its full capacity.
¨ -The Lifeboat must be painted in international bright orange color with the ship’s call sign printed on it.
¨ -The lifeboat station must be easily accessible for all the crew members in all circumstances. Safety awareness posters and launching procedures must be posted at lifeboat station.
¨ -Regular drills must be carried out to ensure that the ship’s crew members are capable of launching the boat with minimal time during real emergency.
What is a life raft?
¨ Life rafts are provided as a life saving appliances on every sea going merchant or passenger vessel in addition to the lifeboats. Life rafts are much easier to launch as compare to life boats and in case of emergency situation, evacuation from the ship can be done without manually launching any of them as the life rafts are designed with auto inflatable system. Life rafts are normally located on muster station, on port and starboard side near the life boat, and fwd and aft of the ship. The location generally depends on size of the ship. Life rafts are stored in a fiberglass container, incorporated with a high pressure gas used for inflating life raft at the time of emergency. A Hydrostatic Release Unit (HRU) is connected to raft container and ship, which release the raft even after the ship sinks in water.
SOLAS requirements for life raft
· On every merchant vessel, annual servicing of life raft has to be done by a specialized shore body and cannot be opened by crew members onboard for inspection.
· The life raft must be capable of withstanding more than 30 days of sea exposure.
· A hydrostatic unit must be fitted for auto inflation of life raft when the ship sinks.
· The container in which the raft is stored must be buoyant in nature.
· It should be strong enough to withstand repeated jumps of crew member from a height of 15 ft.
· A painter/rope line must be provided, whose length should not be less than 50 feet, to open the raft from remote position.
· Highly visible canopy with sufficient headroom and rain water collecting arrangement should be there.
· At least one observation port should be there and the entrance should be of quick closing/opening type.
· Minimum two separate buoyant compartments along with ballast ports to carry at least 220 liters of ballast water should be there.
· The floor must be waterproof and have minimum one boarding ladder.
· Survival pack as per SOLAS along with manually operated lights needs to be provided.
· The raft must be easy to right in case it has been toppled over by rough seas and lifelines must be present inside and outside of the raft.
What’s the length of the lifebuoy line?
· Not less 30 meters
What are the causes of engine room fires?
The causes of engine room fires can usually be traced back to a lack of maintenance or bad watch keeping practices. They are usually caused by fuel spills, overheating components or careless use of electric welding or gas brazing gear.
How many causes are there in the engine room?
The two main causes of engine room fires are scavenge fires and crankcase explosions occurring on the main diesel engines. The scavenge fire is detected by high exhaust temperature,paint peeling of the scavenge door or the Mate phoning down to inform us of black smoke and sparks emitting from the flue.
The much more serious crankcase explosion is caused by a buildup of lube-oil mist inside the crankcase. This triggers the oil-mist detector and the alarm will sound, giving the engineer enough time to slow down the engine allowing it cool. In the event of an explosion, the explosion relief devices on the crankcase doors will lift. This device prevents injury from a flying crankcase door; the fine wire mesh in the relief valve taking the heat out of the flames, reducing the risk of fire. The explosion door re-closes immediately, preventing any entry of fresh oxygen entering the crankcase promoting further explosion and fire.
Hazards have similar fire control methods; injection of CO2 or water mist into the scavenge space and injection of CO2 into the crankcase. The inspection doors must remain shut until the relevant components and spaces have cooled down
What safety precautions should be taken in the engine room?
The engine room should be kept clean and tidy, free from inflammable materials such as wooden crates, cardboard boxes, oily rags and paper. Any oil spills cleaned up immediately and the source investigated, repaired and logged. An engine room No Smoking Policy should be enforced, which should stop people stubbing out their cigarette ends in a sand bucket!
What spaces are protected by CO2 stationary system?
There are 3 ways to stop the combustion:
Ø Reduce the oxygen contents of the atmosphere to below 12 %
Ø Reduce the temperature of the burning products below the flash point
Ø Remove the material producing burnable vapor and/or prevent further supply of such materials
What fire fighting procedures should be taken to prevent fire?
The following procedures to be taken :
v eliminations of all oil and fuel leakages, especially high pressure oil pipes and connections
v clean empty and dry bilge
v no smoking in designated areas, no smoking in bed
v proper lashing and stowage of drums containing poil and/or inflammable liquids
v proper disposal of oily rags, waste etc.
v regular inspection and repair of defective electric cables, switches, junction boxes and/or equipment
v galley clean and secured and filter above oven regular cleaned.
What are your actions in case of fire in the engine room?
Actions to be taken:
ü Locate the source, type and nature of fire
ü Immediately inform the Engineer on duty and the bridge
ü If the fire is at the beginning and still controllable take adequate extinguishing actions
IF FIRE IS BEYOND OF THE ENGINE CREW:
ü General –fire alarm to be activated from the bridge. All actions to be organized from there
ü Stop main engine
ü Check the whereabouts of the engine crew members
ü Stop all the vents and close flaps and fire dampers
ü Activate CO2 alarm
ü Activate quick closing valves for all tanks, pumps, purifiers
ü Verify that all crew is out the engine room
ü Close all doors and skylights
ü Activate CO2 system
ü Start emergency fire pumps and emergency generator
ü Prepare fire hoses for surrounding surface cooling of funnel and engine casing
ü Prepare life boats and all ships documents as well as personal belongings of the crew
ü Inform the company and the nearest Coast Guard or other respective station
ü Check any injuries to crew and treat them according to the Medical Guide
ü Carry out continuous inspections around the engine room and check carefully the insulation attached to the engine room casing
ü Wait a few hours prior to re-entering the engine room
ü Clearly define the route to inspect and the time to remain inside the engine room. Good and permanent communication is possible. Inform the company about the results of the first inspections and discuss nest steps to be taken.
STCW
What is it STCW?
This is the international Convention on Standards of training, certification and watch keeping for seafarers.
The IMO Convention on Standards of Training Certification and Watch keeping of Seafarers adopted a new set of amendments in Manila in 2010 called "The Manila Amendments". These amendments were necessary to keep training standards in line with new technological and operational requirements that require new shipboard competencies.. The most significant amendments are:
Ø New rest hours for seafarers
Ø New grades of certificates of competence for Able seaman in both deck and engine
Ø New and updated training, refreshing requirements
Ø Mandatory security training
Ø Additional medical standards
Ø Specific Alcohol limits in blood or breath.
What is the general responsibility of Duty Engineer?
The Duty Engineer is directly responsible to the C/E and has fully authority over the proper and safe operation of the main and auxiliary machinery curing his duty period.
Before being relieved, the Duty Engineer will complete all entries, as required, in the Engine Log Book.
The relief Duty Engineer will carry out a thorough examination of machinery spaces before taking over responsibility for the duty period.
The Duty Engineer shall not be released from his duties until formally relieved by another Duty Engineer. When handing over to his relief the Duty Engineer shall inform him all matters relating to the status of all machinery.
What is the responsibility of Duty Engineer with regard of Inspection of Machinery?
The Duty Engineer must make regular and frequent inspections of all machinery during his watch, and must ensure that the plant is working safely and efficiently. AJI temperatures, pressures, levels, flows, loadings etc. are to be kept under observation and within normal operating limits and where alarm conditions occur, he is to investigate the cause and initiate remedial action immediately.
What is the responsibility of Duty Engineer with regard of Steering Gear inspections?
The Duty Engineer is to inspect the steering gear at leas: once during his watch. These inspections are to consist of, but not limited to, checking the general condition of the steering gear room, level of hydraulic oil in reserve and make-up tanks, checking for leakage at joints, valves and packing glands, tightness of flange nuts and/or bolts, irregularity in
rams, condition of linkage and lubrication of moving parts. He is also to check the temperature of pumps and motors in operation.
What are the responsibility of Duty Engineer with regard of Water levels in Boilers and Heat Exchangers?
The Duty Engineer is to keep water levels in boilers, heat exchangers and all steam generation units under frequent observation. He is to cross check local and remote level indicators regularly to ensure that they are all correct.
Under no circumstances should he rely solely upon the water levels shown in remote level indicators. Where he experiences difficulty for any reason in maintaining boiler water levels within prescribed safe working limits, the Duty Engineer must take immediate remedial action to safeguard the boiler and inform the Chief Engineer accordingly.
What is the responsibility of Duty Engineer with regard of Actions in the event of Machinery Defect?
At the first indication of breakdown or any other defect of machinery or boilers, the Duty Engineer is to take the necessary action to prevent damage and to inform the Chief Engineer immediately.
What is the responsibility of Duty Engineer with regard of Lubrication of Machinery?
The Duty Engineer must ensure that lubricating oil supplies to the various items of machinery are kept under observation and must take suitable precaution to avoid losses. He must also ensure that only oils/greases, as recommended for specific duties, are used.
What is the responsibility of Duty Engineer with regard of Examination of Bilges?
The Duty Engineer must ensure that bilges are examined and that oil leaks and spillages are stopped and contained where possible. Bilges are to be kept clean at all times. It is essential that ingress of water or oil in any form be kept in an absolute minimum. He must report any excess or abnormal leakage of oil water to the Chief Engineer immediately. Ever,' effort should be made to determine the source of leakage, if necessary, by sampling. In the event of serious flooding, he is to take the following action:
- Ring the Engineer's Alarm
- Take immediate remedial action to contain flow from whatever source and by the most effective means available, including the use of a bilge injection suction.
What is the responsibility of Duty Engineer with regard of Compressed Air and Fresh Water on deck?
The Duty Engineer is responsible for supplying compressed air and fresh water on deck when asked to by the Deck Officer or to the Chief Officer.
What is the responsibility of Duty Engineer with regard of Fuel Economy?
The Duty Engineer must pay attention to matters affecting the consumption and economical use of fuel.
He is to pay the strictest attention to the instructions regarding the correct burning of oil fuel and the proper supply of air to boilers.He is to ensure that any auxiliary machinery, not actually required, is shut off.
What is the responsibility of Duty Engineer with regard of Log Book?
Before being relieved, the Duty Engineer is to ensure that all particulars in the Engine Log Book relating to his watch, have been accurately recorded It is essential that he records any casualty or unusual event. The Log Book must always be completed and signed by the Duty Engineer.
What safety precautions must be taken prior to commencing maintenance work in Eng. Room?
Prior to commencing a maintenance work on any machinery, other than routine works normally undertaken while the machinery is in motion, such as lubricating etc., the responsible Engine Officer shall ensure that the machine has been isolated from its power supply and cannot by accidentally restarted.
Appropriate cautionary notices shall be posted to the isolating device.
What safety precautions must be taken with regard to Access and Lighting?
Whenever it is necessary to remove floor plates or gratings from walkways or ladders in order to gain access to bilges, piping etc., the responsible Engine Officer shall ensure that:
- The area is adequately illuminated
- Cautionary notices are in place
- Loose plates or gratings have been adequately secured.
What are the responsibility of crew with regard of bunker's Samples, Quality and Quantity surveys?
Sealed samples drawn off at the presence of the Chief Engineer from the suppliers storage tanks must be obtained and retained on board for a period until bunkers supplied have been consumed. Accurate soundings of all tanks before and after bunkering should be obtained in order to verify the amount of fuel or lubricants delivered. Barge/Shore tank sounding and/or meter readings should also be checked before and after bunkering to help resolve any dispute, which may arise.
In certain cases the Company appoints external surveyors to perform the Quality and Quantity survey and the Master and Chief Engineer are requested to render any assistance which the might require, however the Chief Engineer must satisfy himself for the quantity received.
What initial preparation must be taken prior bunkering?
- AJI remaining fuel must be regrouped by quality in a minimum of tanks.
- Discuss Bunkering Plan and tank sequence with Officers involved.
- Check that all bunker tank high level alarms are functioning (if provided).
- Remote control gauges are tested.
- Reconfirm space remaining in all bunker tanks to be fitted.
Ensu e.g. all personnel are aware of intention to bunker and emergency response procedure
What has the Bunkering Plan include?
1. Order in which tanks will be filled.
2. Identification and Capacity of Tanks receiving oil.
3. Level and type of liquid in each tank before bunkering
4. Planned final ullage or innage of tanks and the planned percent of
each tank to be filled.
5. Procedures for regular monitoring of all tank levels and valve alignments.
What steps to be followed during Bunkering?
1. The Chief Engineer is responsible for the safe and efficient loading of bunkers and he must be in attendance throughout these operations.
2. Engineer in charge must be on bunker manifold station to open or close valves.
3. Commence bunkering at minimum pumping rate.
4. Examine hose connections for leakage.
5. Verify, by sounding that the oil if filling the expected tanks, and only them
6. Monitor supply line pressure, increase slowly to the maximum agreed.
7. Take soundings regularly to verify true pumping rate.
8. Verify duct keel during operations.
9. Never close down against the incoming bunkers unless permission to do so is given by facility staff.
10. Reduce pumping rate and/or open text tank before topping up.
11. Close valves as each tank is completed and verify that finishing ullage is maintained whilst other are in the process of being loaded.
12. With date, jointly countersigned in presence of witnesses retain sealed bunker samples.
13. Ensure sufficient ullage in final tank for hose draining and line blowing.
14. Notify supplier when final tank is reached.
15. Give suppliers timely warning to reduce pumping rate.
16. Give suppliers timely warning to stop pumping.
17. Drain hoses on completion of bunkering and close all filling valves.
18. Loading must be stopped if there is thunderstorm
19. Keep contact with deck Officer on duty to keep the ship in the same trim conditions during bunkering.
What is Engine log book?
· The Engine room log book is used to record all the parameters of running machineries which includes main propulsion plant, power generation system, boiler, purifier, refrigeration plant, air conditioning plant etc. with signature of the duty officer.
· Any abnormal finding is noted by the duty engineer during his watch.
· Any major maintenance for machineries is recorded with date and remarks by the work carrying officer.
· Voyage number and “from” and “to” ports is written in the log book.
· Running hours of different machineries for every watch is recorded.
· Quantity of fuel, diesel and lube oil retained onboard is recorded by the chief engineer.
· Quantity of waste water retain onboard is recorded by the chief engineer.
· Special operation like bunkering of fuel, diesel and lube oil is noted with starting and finish time.
· Special operation including operation of 15 ppm equipment is recorded with operational time.
· Remarks and signature of chief engineer for each day is also noted.
MARPOL
What is MARPOL?
Marpol 73/78 is the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, 1973 as modified by the Protocol of 1978. ("Marpol" is short for marine pollution)
What does MARPOL consist of?
It consists of 6 annexes and 29 articles
What are the annexes about?
¨ Annex I Regulations for the Prevention of Pollution by oil from the ship
¨ Annex II Regulations for the Control of Pollution by Noxious liquid substances in bulk
¨ Annex III Regulations for the Prevention of Pollution by harmful substances carried by sea in packaged form
¨ Annex IV Regulations for the Prevention of Pollution by sewage from ships
¨ Annex V Regulations for the Prevention of Pollution by garbage from ships
¨ Annex VIRegulations for the Prevention of Pollution of air from the ship
What documents on pollution prevention do engineers deal with?
Engineers deal with SOPEP, OIL Record book, and Garbage book.
What is OIL record book?
It is one of the most important documents onboard with a written record for compliance of annex I of MARPOL.
· When operating oily water separator, 15 ppm equipment for discharging treated bilge water overboard, the operation is recorded with time, position of ship, quantity discharged and retention.
· Maintenance operation of MARPOL equipments like OWS, Sewage treatment plant and incinerator to be recorded with the type of maintenance, date and time.
· Bunkering operation to be recorded including date, time, bunkering grade, quantity bunkered, port of bunkering, and retention of tank used in bunkered operation.
· Weekly retention of waste water that includes bilge and sludge system to be recorded.
· Any internal bilge or sludge transfer to be recorded with date and time and quantity transferred.
· Any maintenance on OWS is recorded and acknowledged by engineering officer carrying out the operation.
· It should always be accompanied with IOPP certificates and all the receipts of bunker (BDN) and sludge/bilge disposal operation.
· All the operation and records are acknowledged by officer carrying the job along with chief engineer signature.
· At the end of every page, master will sign the oil record book.
What is sewage?
Sewage is a water-carried waste, in solution or suspension that is intended to be removed from a community. It consists mostly of grey water (from sinks, tubs, showers, dishwashers, and clothes washers), black water (the water used to flush toilets, combined with the human waste that it flushes away); soaps and detergents; and toilet paper (less so in regions where bidets are widely used instead of paper)
What is garbage?
Garbage is waste to be thrown out, or anything worthless or offensive.
What is SOPEP?
What is the purpose of SOPEP?
SOPEP-shipboard oil pollution emergency plan
The purpose of SOPEPis to provide guidance to the Master and Officers on board the ship with respect to the steps to be taken when a pollution incident has occurred or is likely to occur.
What SOPEP equipment do you know?
The SOPEP Locker must have minimum of the below specified items:
1. absorbent roll
2. absorbent pads
3. absorbent granules
4. absorbent materials
5. brooms
6. shovels
7. mops
8. scoops
9. empty receptacles (200 ltrs capacity)
10. portable air driven pumps
11. oil boom
12. oil spill dispersants.
These items must be stowed in an easily accessible locker, clearly marked, and is to be brought on deck ready for immediate use, prior to all oil transfer operations.
What is the «Special Area " mean according to MARPOL?
Special area is a sea area where for recognized special reasons in relation to its oceanographical and ecological condition and the particular character of its traffic, the adoption of special mandatory methods for the prevention of sea pollution is required.
According to MARPOL. ANNEX V. reg. 5(1). these special areas are:
The MEDITERRANEAN SEA (from Gibraltar to Black Sea)
The BLACK SEA
The BALTIC SEA (including the gulfs of Bothnia and Finland)
The RED SEA
The GULFS area (Persian Gulf)
The NORTH SEA area (southwards 62°N including English channel - Skagerrak -Kattegat)
The ANTARCTIC area {south of 60°S)
The wider CAREBBIAN region (including Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean sea)
In which groups’ garbage be sorted to place to separate receptacles?
Separate receptacles (cans, bin; or baas) must be available in order garbage to be sorted in the following groups:
- Plastics and plastics mixed with non-plastic garbage, which must be retained on board for discharge at port reception facilities unless they are incinerated in such wav that the only remains are ashes. When plastic garbage can not be separated from other garbage than that mixture should be considered as plastic.
- Food wastes (including materials contaminated by such wastes but no plastics).
- Other garbage that can be disposed of at sea including paper products, rags (not saturated by oil), glass, metal bottles, crockery, dunnage, lining and packing materials etc.
What zones of garbage segregation do you know?
1) 25 nautical miles for dunnage, lining and packing materials which will float;
2) 12 nautical miles for food wastes and all other garbage including [paper products, rags, glass, metal, bottles, crockery and similar refuse.
Garbage comminuted to 25 mm less than 3 miles.
What garbage storage do you know?
RED-all garbage that cannot be discharged into sea(plastics, ropes, oily rags etc.,)
YELLOW-dunnage, lining
BLACK-all papers, rags, metals, crockery
BLUE- food receptacles
What have to do the person who found oil spill?
Whenever an oil spill occurs it is the duty of the person finding the spill immediately to inform the Master or responsible officer, who should call out the vessels’ oil pollution prevention team. Remember that an oil spill may create a fire or explosion hazard, requiring safety precautions to be observed.
What will the most likely operational oil spill from?
The most likely operational oil spill from:
¨ pipeline leakages, including transfer hoses
¨ bunker tank overflows
¨ hull leakages
What kind of chemicals should be used for response to pollution outside the vessel?
No chemicals should be used for response to pollution outside the vessel without approval of the appropriate coastal authority.
What kind of casualty situations dealt with oil spills?
The following casualty situations are dealt with:
ü grounding
ü fire/explosion
ü collision
ü hull failure
ü excessive list
What measures to be taken in case of "pipeline leakage during bunkering"?
Measures to be implemented immediately:
- Stop all bunkering operations, and close manifold valves.
- Sound the emergency alarm, and initiate emergency response procedures.
- Inform terminal / bunkering personnel about the incident.
Further measures:
- Consider whether to stop air intake into accommodation and non-essential air intake to engine room.
- Locate source of leakage, and begin clean-up procedures.
- Drain affected section of pipeline into an empty or slack tank (e.g. the slop tank or another oil tank).
- Prepare portable pumps where it is possible to transfer spilled oil into a slack or empty tank.
If the spilled oil is contained on board and can be handled by the Oil Pollution Prevention Team then:
- Use sorbents and permissible solvents to clean up oil spills on board
- Ensure that any residues collected in the clean up operation are stored carefully prior to disposal.
What measures to be taken in case of "tank overflow during bunkering"?
Measures to be implemented immediately:
- Stop all bunkering operations, and close manifold valves.
- Sound the emergency alarm, and initiate emergency response procedures.
- Inform terminal / bunkering personnel about the incident.
Further measures :-
Consider whether to stop air intake into accommodation and non-essential air intake
- to engine room
- Locate source of leakage, and begin clean-up procedures.
- Drain affected section of pipeline into an empty or slack-tank (e.g. the slop tank or
- another oil tank).
- Prepare portable pumps where it is possible to transfer spilled oil into a slack or empty tank.
- Reduce the level of the overflow tank by transferring to a slack or empty tank.
If the spilled oil is contained on board and can be handled by the Oil Pollution Prevention Team then
- Use sorbents and permissible solvents to clean up oil spills on board
- Ensure that any residues collected in the clean up operation are stored carefully prior to disposal.
MLC
What is MLC?
The Maritime Labour Conventionis an International Labour Organization convention established in 2006 and embodies"all up-to-date standards of existing international maritime labour Conventions and Recommendations, as well as the fundamental principles to be found in other international labour Conventions".
What does MLC consist of?
The convention consists of the sixteen articles containing general provisions as well as the Code.
The Code consists of five Titles in which specific provisions are grouped by standard:
· Title 1: Minimum requirements for seafarers to work on a ship
· Title 2: Conditions of employment
· Title 3: Accommodation, recreational facilities, food and catering
· Title 4: Health protection, medical care, welfare and social security protection
· Title 5: Compliance and enforcement
Speak about MLC titles
Minimum requirements for seafarers to work on a ship
The minimum requirements set out in this section of the code are divided in 4 parts and are summarized below:
· Title 1: Minimum requirements for seafarers to work on a ship
Minimum age requirements: the minimum age is 16 years (18 for night work and work in hazardous areas).
Medical fitness: workers should be medically fit for the duties they are performing.
Training: Seafarers should be trained for their duties as well as have had a personal safety training.
Title 2: Employment conditions
The Title on employment conditions lists conditions of the contract and payments, as well as the working conditions on ships.
· Contracts: the contract should be clear, legally enforceable and incorporate collective bargaining agreements (if existent).
· Payments: Wages should be paid at least every month, and should be transferrable regularly to family if so desired.
· Rest hours: rest hours should be implemented in national legislation. The maximum hours of work in that legislation should not exceed 14 hours in any 24-hour period and 72 hours in any seven-day period, or: at least ten hours of rest in any 24-hour period and 77 hours (rest) in any seven-day period. Furthermore the daily hours of rest may not be divided into more than two periods and, at least six hours of rest should be given consecutively in one of those two periods.
· Leave: Seafarers have a right to annual leave as well as shore leave.
· Repatriation: Returning to their country of residence should be free
· Loss: If a ship is lost or foundered, the seafarers have a right to an unemployment payments.
Title 3: Accommodation, Recreational Facilities, Food and Catering
The title specifies rules detailed rules for accommodation and recreational facilities, as well as food and catering.
· Accommodation: Accommodation for living and/or working should be "promoting the seafarers' health and well-being".
· Food and Catering: Both food quality and quantity, including water should be regulated in the flag state.
Title 4: Health Protection, Medical Care, Welfare and Social Security Protection
Title 4 consists of 5 regulations about Health, Liability, Medical care, Welfare and Social security.
· Medical care on board ship and ashore: Seafarers should be covered for and have access to medical care while on board; in principle at no cost and of a quality comparable to the standards of health care on shore.
· Shipowners' liability: Seafarers should be protected from the financial effects of "sickness, injury or death occurring in connection with their employment". This includes at least 16 weeks of payment of wages after start of sickness.
· Health and safety protection and accident prevention: A safe and hygienic environment should be provided to seafarers both during working and resting hours and measures should be taken to take reasonable safety measures.
· Access to shore-based welfare facilities: Port states should provide "welfare, cultural, recreational and information facilities and services" and to provide easy access to these services. The access to these facilities should be open to all seafarers irrespective of race, sex, religion or political opinion.
· Social security: Social security coverage should be available to seafarers (and in case it is customary in the flag state: their relatives).
Title 5 sets standers to ensure compliance with the convention. The title distinguishes requirements for flag states and port states.
ISM Code
What is ISM Code?
International Safety Management Code means the “International management Code for the safe Operation of ships and for Pollution Prevention”, adopted by the International Maritime Organization
What are the objectives of ISM?
The objectives of Codeare to ensure safety at sea, prevention of human injury or loss of life, and avoidance of damage to the environment and to property.
What is it SMS? What is the purpose?
SMS means Safety Management System. \
The purposes are:
-provide for safe practice in ship operation and a safe working environment
-establish safeguards against all identified risks
-take into account applicable codes, standard recommended by the international Maritime organization
What does it mean DPA?
It means Designated persons ashore. The function is to monitor safety and pollution prevention operations and have the access to highest management.
Company’s DPA has responsibilities as follows:
- safety of human life, property, cargoes and ships,
- protection of environment from pollution,
- formulation and amendment of the policies of the Company as found necessary,
- proper implementation of these policies through the channels of relevant departments,
- analysis and review of the feedback from the ships concerning these policies and recommend any required changes,
- planning of audits, training and selection of internal auditors,
- collection and evaluation of all records in conjunction with the relevant departments,
- adequacy of resources , both in the Office and onboard all ships to provide the necessary support for successful implementation of the policies.
What is Muster list?
This is the list what to do and where to go in emergency situations.
All the crew listed in the muster list are assigned with duties to perform in emergency situation like carrying EPIRB and SART, lifeboat and life raft launching etc.
Different teams with assigned duties for the individuals of the team for emergencies
Different teams are made to tackle emergencies. These are
1. Command Team: operated from bridge.
2. Emergency team 1: Operates at the point of scenario.
3. Emergency team 2: Standby team and helping hand for emergency team.
4. Roving Commission: Team working along with all other team.
5. Engine room team: This team stands by in ECR.
A muster list is basically a list which is displayed in the areas of the vessel so that every crew member on onboard can read it on a go. Some of the important areas where the muster list is posted are- Bridge, Engine room, accommodation, alleyways etc., areas where ship’s crew spends the maximum of their time.
What is the Muster station?
An area of a ship where passengers are directed to assemble in an emergency:everybody was told to go to the muster stations and givenlife jackets.
What is an emergency situation?
An emergency situation is one in which the safety of the aircraft or of persons on board or on the ground is endangered for any reason.
What may examples of emergency situations include?
They may include:
1.
Loss or contamination of cargo
10.
Grounding / stranding
2.
Medical matters (illness or injury)
11.
Man overboard
3.
Medical matters (death)
12.
Collision
4.
Oil spill
13.
Search and rescue
5.
Steering failure
14.
Helicopter operations
6.
Heavy weather damage
15.
Power failure
7.
Main Engine failure
16.
Abandon Ship
Fire
17.
Piracy
9.
Explosion
18.
Flooding
What drills shall be carried out at least every month’
- Fire Drill
- Abandon Ship Drill
What drills shall be carried out at least every two months?
- Oil Pollution Drill
- Flooding Drill
What drills shall be carried out at least every three months?
- Lowering of Lifeboat and Running Engine around Vessel
- Emergency Steering Gear Drill
- Rescue from an Enclosed Space
In addition, the Master must carry out further drills to ensure proper preparation of the crew to response to emergency situations, which are the result of incidents such as:
- collision
- grounding or stranding
- excessive list
- oil pollution
Actions in case of general alarm?
- Take immersion suit, life jacket put on corresponding wearing and proceed to Muster Station
What should you check in the engine room from safety point of view?
¨ Check if life jackets and immersion suits provided in the engine room are in proper condition and well in number
¨ Check EEBD in the engine room
¨ Check Medical First Aid Box
¨ Check emergency escape routes from the engine room and also find out where it leads on the deck
¨ Check all the life saving appliances for their starting and stopping procedures, including those of emergency generator, lifeboats, emergency compressors, and emergency fire pumps.
¨ Check all engine room machines for abnormal operations
¨ Check location of water tight doors and their operation and working
¨ - Check location of fire hoses and fire hydrants
What should you check in your accommodation?
§ Check if life jacket and immersion suit are kept in their designated lockers in your cabin.
§ Check all fittings, accessories and condition of jacket and suit.
§ Check the location of the nearest fire extinguisher from your cabin
§ Check the emergency escape located nearest to your cabin
§ Check the location of Emergency Escape Breathing Device (EEBD)
§ Check your duties posted in the Muster list along with your lifeboat station
§ Check the nearest fire hose in the accommodation area
§ Check ship’s alarm description in the muster list
§ Check location of alarm button near to your cabin
§ Check your cabin thoroughly for presence of any unidentified object
ISPS Code
What does it mean ISPS Code?
It means International Ship and Port Facility security code, which is designed to prevent acts of terrorism which threaten the security of passengers and crews and safety of ships and port facilities.
How many levels are?
They are three levels.
Level 1 –Normal situation-there aren’t any concrete references to assassinations. A minimum of protective measures must be maintained any time. This doesn’t mean that no protective measures are required. Security measures have also to be maintained on level
Level 2 –Increased danger-there are concrete references to assassinations. Additional protective measures have to be implemented for a limited time.
Level 3-Imminent or direct danger-attacks are probable or are going on near-by. Further protective measures must be implemented for a very limited time. Additional instructions of the governments have to be followed.
Whenever a crewmember discovers strange behavior or suspicious objects he reports this to the Ship Security Officer.
What constant measures are to be taken all the time?
During port stay all crewmembers are requested to carry on the personal ID cards. During the audit all watertight doors around accommodation and deck to remain closed, also the internal doors with digital codes as well.
You requested to maintain above security system to learn the codes, especially for accommodation door and engineer’s change room in A’ deck
In what cases will change /increase the security level on board?
Due to the vessel is passing through sensitive areas (Malacca strait, Gulf of Aden) security level increased to level higher and reduce to previous after we clear these areas.
How often can the security meeting be carried out?
It can be carried out every 3 months. According to the Company policy.
What operational differences between security levels do you know?
Level 1-5% loaded cargo checked (manifest, location, seals), 5%of stores checked, 10% search belongings of persons come on board (accommodation), patrol every 2 hours and report to OOW Deck/Engine 100% persons come on board identified by photo ID.
Level 2 – 50% loaded cargo checked(manifest, location, seals),50 % stores checked,50% search belongings of persons come on board (accommodation), patrol every 1 hour and report to OOW Deck/Engine 100% persons come on board identified by photo ID, vessel searched by the security team.
Level 3- Operation such as loading /discharging, receiving of stores, bunkers, provisions, and embark/disembark of crewmembers to be stopped. Accommodation and pilot ladders to be secured and lowering only for identified crewmembers or official authorities.
If you mark a suspicious packages/device or activities, what have you to do?
Immediately to be reported to Master or SSO(Ship’s Security Officer)
Which are the restricted areas on board?
Bosun store, Emergency fire pump, bow thruster room, passage way port and starboard, cargo holds, e/room, accommodation, bridge, Ox/ac room, CO2 room, fire station, battery room, emergency generator, ballast room, steering gear room, air-condition room, boat deck.
What is a citadel?
A citadel refers to a room where the crew of the ship can hide in case there is a pirate attack on the ship or when the pirates are aboard the ship.The citadel requires food and water supplies, communication channels, system of ventilation and first aid kit, and the panel for switching off the engines –both main and auxiliary.
Gangway watch actions when anyone of visitor comes on board
Ø To require ID of any visitor: check photo and exp date
Ø To fill up appropriate gangway log by Hand of gangway watchman
Ø To issue vessel visitor card while person is coming inside of accommodation
Ø To search by metal detectors as required according to security level
Ø Report to duty officer about any visitor
SAFETY AND HEALTH
What are the purposes of protective garments?
Protective garments must:
ü give sufficient protection to the skin
ü give sufficient insulation against cold and heat
ü be fire proof
ü be comfortable to use
ü be suitable for the work that is to be carried out.
What hazards at sea do you know?
They are
Ø vessel rolling and pitching in heavy weather
Ø operation of machinery and equipment in heavy weather
Ø cargo dangers
Ø fire and explosions
Ø technical malfunctions
Ø insufficient competency, information and familiarization
They can be avoided or minimized by appropriate awareness on safety matters, full enforcement of procedures ad instructions, correct planning, drills, training and familiarization.
By having regular drills and trainings the seafarer will learn what to do in a hazardous situation. It is the purpose that every seafarer is trained in such way that the actions to be taken become like a second nature thus avoiding panic when hazards really occur.
When must boiler suit be worn?
Boiler suits must be worn at all times when working:
ü in the engine room or any other space containing machinery
ü in any area outside accommodation or bridge
ü during storing operations
ü with paint or blasting equipment
ü with scaling , drilling, grinding and cutting equipment
ü With acids or other chemicals.
What is the “Permit to Work system”?
A permit to work system isa system which requires step by step formal actions to be taken by people responsible for a particular job in order to achieve a more effective control and obtain a satisfactory basis on ensuring the safety of those engaged in a high risk operation.
What safety precautions must be taken before work is commenced near the ship's whistle?
Before work is commenced near the ship's whistle, the Officer responsible for the job should ensure that the power is shut off and warning notices posted on the bridge and in the machinery spaces. On completion of the work, the Officer responsible should where necessary, inform the appropriate Officer that the precautions taken are no longer required and that warning notices can be removed.
What safety precautions must be taken before work is commenced in the funnel?
Before work is commenced in the funnel, the Officer responsible should inform the duty engineer to ensure that steps are taken to reduce as far as practicable the emission of steam, harmful gases and fumes.
On completion of the work, the Officer responsible should where necessary, inform the appropriate Officer that the precautions taken are no longer required and that warning notices can be removed.
What are the precautions be taken when using Breathing Apparatus?
When using the Breathing Apparatus the following precautions are necessary:
-the face mark must be checked and adjusted to ensure it is airtight.
-the pressure gauge must be checked before use
-the audible low pressure should be tested before use
-the pressure gauge should be read frequently during use to check the air supply.
What is EEBD?
This is a compressed air or oxygen breathing device used for escape from a compartment where the atmosphere has become hazardous while a person is within it. Additional sets should be provided for use as emergency escape equipment during enclosed space entry. Each set has a duration of not less than 10 minutes.
Procedure for donning and using EEBD:
Ø Read the instruction on the EEBD bottle
Ø Wear the hood or face mask provided with the EEBD
Ø Make sure you tighten the hood opening from bottom to avoid smoke or gases entering the face mask
Ø Ensure the face mask is clear and the visibility from the mask is good
Ø Hang the portable cylinder onto your neck or as described in the instruction
Ø Open the fresh air valve and check the pressure
Ø Ensure the mask is properly fitted on the face and no smoke or gases are coming inside
Ø Do not attempt any rescue after donning EEBD
Ø Your first priority after donning EEBD should be to come out of the affected space in minimum time
Ø Never use EEBD for fire fighting
What is SCBA?
Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) is a compressed fresh air supplying device which is used for carrying out operations such as enclosed space entry, fire fighting etc.
This device is mainly use in places where the air does not have enough oxygen to support natural breathing. Every seafarer must know how to operate the self contained breathing apparatus.
Procedure for donning and using SCBA:
Ø Check the pressure of the bottle to ensure it is full
Ø Check the condition of the mask, its strap, and the back strap of the bottle for any damage
Ø Ensure that the warning whistle is working fine to give alarm when the level is below critical limit
Ø While donning the mask, strap it tightly in such a way that it sits perfectly on the head, preventing any kind of air leakage.
Ø Don the cylinder with the back strap and tighten the belt
Ø Always make sure that the cylinder is full and pressurised before entering any confined or smoke filled space
Ø While climbing or coming down a ladder, never lean towards your back as the added weight of the SCBA can topple you over
Ø Ensure you have extra spares kept ready for use when entering any space with SCBA
Ø When the alarm sounds, come out of the space immediately to replace the cylinder
What are the factors in protection when working on board?
There are three factors in protection when working on board:
- Removal of dangerous situations.
- Abstain from dangerous situations and job situations.
- Use of protection equipment and clothing.
What safety precautions must be taken before work is commenced near the ship's whistle?
Before work is commenced near the ship's whistle, the Officer responsible for the job should ensure that the power is shut off and warning notices posted on the bridge and in the machinery spaces. On completion of the work , the Officer responsible should where necessary, inform the appropriate Officer that the precautions taken are no longer required and that warning notices can be removed.
What shall include the test of steering gear procedure?
Within 12 hours of departure the ship's steering gear shall be checked and tested by the ship's crew. The test procedure shall include, where applicable the operation of the following:
- the main steering gear
- the auxiliary steering gear
- the remote steering gear control systems
- the steering positions located on the navigation bridge
- the emergency power supply
- the rudder angle indicators in relation to the actual position of rudder
- the remote steering gear control system power failure alarms
- the steering gear power unit failure alarms
- the automatic isolation arrangements and other automatic equipment.
The tests and checks shall include:
The full movement of the rudder according to the required capabilities of the steering gear. A visual inspection of the steering gear and its connecting linkage
The operation of the means of communication between the navigation bridge and steering gear compartments.
PERSONAL SAFETY IN SHIP’S OPERATIONS
Always wear safety gears provided to you, especially safety helmet when working in the engine room (Ship professionals often avoid helmets in the engine room because of high temperature).
Ø There would always be hazards from machines running at high RPM, along with other elevated parameters. Always be careful of them and start work on any machinery only after it is fully isolated and after necessary permits are taken.
ØBecause of abundance of oil (lube and fuel) in the engine room, the chances of slipping and tripping are high. Always keep an eye on oil leaks and maintain good housekeeping in the engine room.
Ø Never lean or put your weight on floor railings as it may lead to tripping and falling from heights. Always use safety harness while working at heights.
Ø Do not run in the engine room as confined spaces are fitted with several pipes and protruding structures. Even during emergency alarm, maintain your calm and walk carefully. It is better to reach your point safely rather than not reaching there at all because of an accident on the way.
Never Smoke in the engine room. It is one of the most common causes of fire.
Ø Be careful when working on steam systems as pressurised steam can lead to scalding (burning). Never touch fuel or steam pipes with bare hands.
Ø Make sure that insulation lagging is always present on steam and fuel piping systems, and is completely dry. Presence of oil on or under the surface can lead to fire.
Ø While begining your routine know when the ship is in UMS mode, and make sure you activate the dead man alarm in the UMS control system.
Ø Never lift heavy load alone. Assess the load of the object and your lifting capacity.
Ø Never ignore any abnormality in the machinery. Always check, report and repair.
Ø Know all emergency operations and safety procedures.
Ø Make sure you take all the precautions necessary before working on electrical systems to avoid electrical shock hazard.
A ship is mainly provided with two workshops, one on the deck and other in the engine room. Both these workshops are equipped with a variety of machine tools such as lathe, drills, millers, grinders etc., which are required for repair and fabrication operations performed on board ships.
The necessary safety precautions:
Ø Always wear proper personal protective equipment before performing any operation in workshop.
Ø Make sure you know how to safely operate the machinery and equipment of the workshop.
Ø Know the correct tools required for each machine in the workshop
Ø If you are not familiarised with any machinery, ask your seniors for assistance.
Make sure machine guards are always in place.
Ø Perform one job at a time and never distract any person operating an equipment in the workshop
Ø Avoid loose boiler suits and belongings such as chains and finger rings
Ø Avoid long hair or tie them while working
Ø Always wear eye protection in workshop as this is the place for welding, bracing, scrapping etc.
Ø Know the nearest fire fighting extinguisher
Ø Know the escape route from the workshop
Ø Report all damaged equipment and tools, and avoid using them
Ø Keep the workshop clean and dry
Ø Report all hazardous and unsafe condition in the workshop
Ø Always shutdown all equipment and machines in workshop after use
Ø When arranging the pipeline or connection, use correct size of tools
Ø While going down to oil supply barge, always use ship‟s gangway whenever possible with all safety precautions such as use of safety net etc
Ø Do not carry extra tools with you while using ladder. Use rope and bucket to lower the tools
Ø Use ship crane or extra assistance to pull or lift heavy bunker pipe on ship
Ø Do not smoke on deck during bunker operation
Ø Read complete Material Safety Data Sheet supplied by the bunker provider
Ø Keep the first aid kit ready to use
Ø Keep one portable extinguisher ready to use
Ø Always keep eye wash nearby as the bunker product is hot and irritant to the human eyes
Ø Wash your skin immediately with plenty of water if it comes in contact with the oil. Remove contaminated shoes and clothing in case they have oil over them.
Ø Keep the bunker area clear off all tools and equipment to avoid slip, trips and fall
Ø If oil spill happens, immediately clean the spill by using SOPEP equipment and never run over the spilled oil
Ø Keep track on the pressure of supplied oil and never lean on the connected oil pipe
Ø Never lean on the railings of the ship to check or communicate with bunker barge
Ø If vapours are inhaled, move to fresh air area. If breathing is difficult, take oxygen
Ø If swallowed, these products may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and restlessness. DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. Seek prompt medical attention.
Ø Always use all necessary personal protective equipment while doing maintenance work on machinery
Ø Fill risk assessment forms and insist for tool box meeting to understand the requirement and procedure of maintenance
Ø Make sure the machinery is taken off the power by tripping off the breaker
Ensure all required valves and lines are closed for the maintenance work
Ø Never wear loose overall, jewellery etc. when working
