Hazardous Substances
The first safety step here is to try and find a chemical substance that isn’t hazardous to health. But if this is not possible, make sure there are adequate control measures in place to reduce the risk – and make sure that these controls are used and maintained. Only resort to Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as a last resort.
Follow these basic rules:
- Don’t store unnecessary hazardous substances on board. Leave excess paint, lube, oil, hydraulic fluid, solvents ashore if possible. If you do have to store hazardous substances on board, designate one locker or storage area for them, vent the space to atmosphere and make sure there’s a fire extinguisher nearby.
- Provide the appropriate signage.
- Hazardous / Volatile liquids should be stored only in containers designed for the purpose - never in breakable glass containers. Metal containers should be inspected regularly for signs of corrosion, damage or leakage. Hazardous substances should not be stowed in the galley or living quarters, and only the minimum necessary in the engine room. Don’t store near the food supply.
- Get suppliers of all chemicals, oils, etc. to provide the necessary information(MSDS sheets) regarding their products.
- The appropriate Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) need to be easily available to operators and first aid personnel, making sure that the first-aid program onboard understands what to do in case of emergency, and has the correct equipment / medicine to deal with the problem.
- Keep containers close when not in immediate use.
