A shipyard is a place where many very different operations happen at
the same time. Heavy rigging can take place along side hot-work, sandblasting,
and the installation of delicate instrumentation or cabinetry. Along
with this, subcontractors work in the yard, the vessel's crew must have
access to their ship, and the vessel's owner may have other contractors
on board.
With all of this activity, there is a great potential for injuries.
So it's important to take the time to plan your work activities at the
beginning of each day or job, including the safe work habits you will
use. Production and quality are both critical to your job and the company.
A number
of the safe work habits to keep in mind are:
• Confined space entry - Always look for the
posted Marine Chemist Certificate or your Shipyard Competent Person
(SCP) inspection form before entering a space. Follow all information
noted by the Marine Chemist or SCP.
• Lifting and handling material- Many things
in the shipyard are heavy and can be located in cramped spaces. Mentally
lift the load first. Can you lift it safely alone? Get help with heavy
or difficult lifts. Consider using a chain fall or other mechanical
assistance whenever possible.
• Working above the deck- Falls are a major cause
of injury. Whenever working above 5 feet your platform must have guardrails
and mid-rails. If you must work outside of this protection, wear a full-body
harness with shock-absorbing lanyard, and make sure it is attached to
an appropriate anchor point. Tie-off access ladders to keep them from
slipping, and check to see that the ladder extends least three feet
above the landing.
• Working over water- In most cases whenever
working over water you should wear an approved personal flotation device.
Zip it up and snap all of the snaps. It will not save your life if it
slips off your shoulders and over your head when you fall in the water.
• Eye protection- An eye injury is one of the
most common injuries in the shipyard. Always wear your safety glasses,
goggles and/or faceshield when they are needed. You only have eyes so
protect them at all times.
• Fire- Hot-work, painting, flammables and the
interior finishes of vessels do not mix well. Always maintain a fire
extinguisher or water hose near hot-work activities. Use a firewatch
whenever there is a high potential of fire. Follow your local Fire Department's
requirements.
• Housekeeping- A poorly maintained yard increases
the chances for slips and falls from the same deck. Sprained knees and
twisted ankles are painful reminders that you did not pick up your material
or equipment each day. Keep accessways free of debris and material.
• Hatchways- Railings should be installed around
open hatchways and open deck sides. If you can fall over it, or into
it, then a railing is required. Check perimeter railings daily.
The shipyard
is a busy place to work in each day. Make your personal safety a priority
in everything you do.
Maritime
Safety Standards
29
CFR 1915
Shipyard
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