Ships operation- Emergency procedures for rescue from enclosed spaces
Initial alarm
A responsible member of the crew outside an enclosed space who notices something wrong within, or any other person who sees or suspects a casualty within an enclosed space should first raise an Alarm.
On no account should the person(s) attempt to enter it before additional help has arrived, and no one should enter any space or attempt to rescue, without wearing a breathing apparatus set.
The only exception to the rescuer not wearing a breathing apparatus set is when it is positively known that the cause of the accident was not a deficiency in the space atmosphere.
Mustering of rescue resources
On hearing an alarm, the Master or responsible officer should muster a Rescue Team comprising at least 2 persons and a third person in charge who should remain outside the space to exercise control. Unless not already ready at space entrance before the enclosed space entry was permitted, the following minimum items should be assembled at site :
• 2 x Self Contained Breathing Apparatus
• EEBD
• Resuscitator
• Lifelines (to be used unless impracticable)
• Rescue Harness / Neil Robertson stretcher, with rope
Rescue
The rescuers entering the enclosed space must wear a SCBA and carry an EEBD and Rescue Harness for use of casualty.
They should be in continuous communication with the rescue supervisor who in turn should apprise the Master of the events.
Personnel should be allocated to relieve or back-up the rescue team. Support team should arrange back up equipment outside space like spare SCBA bottles, ropes, first aid equipment, and possibly hoisting equipment to aid in lifting the casualty.
A stretcher if available is necessary to evacuate any casualty with suspected neck or spinal injuries, after fastening him .
In other cases, a rescue harness may be used. If necessary, the EEBD is to be used to supply the casualty with fresh air,
In case the casualty requires artificial respiration, then the resuscitator must be used.
Note : “Resuscitation apparatus” provided to all Tankers, it should be always kept for immediately use, should be stowed where it is easily accessible and not kept locked up and also crew must be aware of its location and are trained in its proper use.
The casualty should be moved to the nearest safe adjacent area outside the enclosed space unless his injuries and the likely time of evacuation makes some treatment essential before he is moved.
Medical advice is to be sought from shore as required.
Related Information
Preparations prior entering an enclosed space
Procedures and safeguards against accidents in an enclosed space
How to ensure safe working atmosphere onboard?
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