Barge Cleaning Operations » Common Hazards
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The following safety and health information for barge
Cleaning operations should be reviewed. Additional requirements may apply for barges requiring repairs. For these requirements, see
Ship Repair
module.
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Opening Covers |
Take precautions when opening covers to tanks, and other
confined or enclosed spaces, in the event the space is under pressure or
hazardous materials have leaked from internal piping systems.
Typically, you should leave at least two nuts on opposite sides of the
cover in place until the cover can be cracked and any internal pressure
released. If there are other indicators of hazardous material leakage,
inform the Shipyard Competent Person (SCP).
See
Fall Hazards. |
Figure 1:
Releasing pressure and opening cover.
Figure 2: Tank covers — one for
ventilation and one for access. |
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Maritime
Labor/Industry Recommendations |
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Fall Hazards
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Potential Hazards:
Fall hazards are a leading cause of fatalities.
Barge cleaning workers are often
required to work in dangerous environments that may include fall
hazards. Accidents involving elevation equipment (such as ladders
and scaffolds) are often serious, even fatal. Workers are also
at risk to falls from open
deck edges.
High-Pressure Cleaning
- Sudden changes in hose line pressure may throw a
worker from the work surface.
- Cleaning can create static electricity. This may shock the
worker and result in a fall.
Deck Openings and Edges
- Falls from unguarded deck openings and edges
- Falls into open holes
Requirements and Example Solutions:
- Workers must be protected by proper fall protection.
[1915.152]
Guarding of Deck Openings and Edges
- Openings and deck edges must be guarded. [1915.73]
- Flush manholes and other small openings must be guarded after opening. [1915.73(b)]
- Fall protection (harness with lanyard) must be used during the installation of guards on
deck openings and
edges. [1915.73(d)]
Additional Resources:
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Figure 3: Deck openings and holes create a significant fall hazard.
Figure 4: Workers exposed to falls
from ladder and scaffold.
Figure 5: Workers protected at deck edge by guardrail.
Figure 6: Deck opening protected with guard.
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Figure 7: Deck opening protected with
guard.
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Figure 8: Mooring up barge in the process. |
Figure 9: Mooring the barge and standing away from the edge. |
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Hazardous Material Assessment |
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Previous cargoes must be determined. If they contained hazardous
materials, workers should be informed of the hazards and how to safely
work with them.
As part of the Hazard Communication standard [1915.1200],
material safety data sheets (MSDS) for the cleaning solutions must be
available for ready reference. Personnel must be provided with information
contained in the MSDS such as: chemical
name, hazard information, personal protective equipment (PPE), etc.
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Maritime
Labor/Industry Recommendations |
- Removal, disposal, and/or recycling of
residue and by-products (such as contaminated clothing, PPE, rags
and cleaning supplies) from Shipyard Employment operations should
be in accordance with local, state, and federal
regulations/requirements.
- Work closely with the owner of the barge to obtain information on
the last three cargoes.
Additional Resources:
- NIOSH Pocket Guide
- NFPA 306, Control of Gas Hazards on Vessels. National Fire
Protection Association.
- 33 CFR, Subpart 154 - Facilities Transferring Oil or Hazardous
Materials in Bulk. This regulation is available on-line
through the
GPO Access website.
- 154.735 - Safety Requirements. U.S. Coast Guard. This regulation allows for the incorporation of the International
Safety Guide for Oil Tankers & Terminals (ISGOTT) guide for tank
cleaning under 33 CFR 154.735(s)(1-3).
- OCIMF International Safety Guide for Oil Tankers & Terminals.
International Chamber of Shipping (ICS). This document outlines the
international standard for cleaning tanks.
- Safety Guidelines For Tank Vessel Cleaning Facilities. American Waterways
Shipyard Conference. This guideline was created by the American
Waterways Shipyard Conference (AWSC). AWSC merged with the
Shipbuilders Council of America (SCA) in 1999.
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Static Electricity
Hazards |
Potential Hazards:
Static electricity can be generated in barge
cleaning operations by:
- Friction of different metals
- Movement of grain
- Transfer of liquids
- Mechanical ventilation (such as pneumatic, non-sparking, air movers)
- Vessel docking
- Atmospheric conditions
- Movement of water around the vessel
- Clothing (such as nylon or polyester fabrics, conductive shoes)
- Conductive tools (such as shovels, scrapers, wrenches, and wire
brushes)
- High-pressure washing. See the High-Pressure Hazards card.
Requirements and Example Solutions:
When barge cleaning operations are capable of producing
static electricity:
- Equipment that may generate static electricity such as ventilation
systems must be grounded/bonded. [1915.13(b)(11)].
- Arcing and sparking equipment and tools must not be used. [1915.36(a)(1)]
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Figure 10: Use non-sparking tools.
Figure 11: Blower with ground.
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Figure 12: Blower with ground.
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Figure 13: Barge grounding clamp and cable. |
Figure 14: Non-sparking brass wash nozzle. |
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Maritime
Labor/Industry Recommendations |
- Flammable liquids should be transferred by using bonded hoses (such as
static hoses) or adequately bonded containers (such as drums, cans, or
portable tanks). Hoses should be tested to ensure continuity prior to
use.
- During all vessel docking operations, the bonding cable should be
attached to the vessel prior to grounding to avoid sparking.
- Precautions should be taken to eliminate sources that may create
static electricity before and while lifting devices are used on vessels
to hoist with
flammable/combustible liquids.
- Precautions should be taken when low humidity conditions increase
the probability of static electricity.
- If flammable solvents are involved in the operation, non-static
discharge producing shoes/boots and shoe covers should be used.
Note: No one can work in a space that contains an atmosphere
above 10% of the lower explosive limit (LEL). [1915.12, 1915.13, and
1915.14]
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Fire and
Explosion Hazards |
Potential Hazards:
Fire and explosions may be caused by:
- Flammable and combustible cleaning
solvents such as Methyl Ethyl
Ketone (MEK), mineral spirits, and diesel fuel/oil
- Liquids with high flash points
(greater than 100º F) applied as a fine mist
- Airborne particulate or dust
- Hydrogen gas generated during cleaning processes
- Reactive cargoes such as iron-ore, fertilizer, or incompatible
chemicals
Requirements and Example Solutions:
When barge cleaning operations are capable of producing flammable/combustible atmospheres:
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Figure 15: Improper practice: Worker covered with flammable oil.
Figure 16: Ventilation equipment used to maintain safe conditions for entry.
Figure 17: Worker testing space to see that safe conditions are maintained during cleaning.
Figure 18: Fire extinguishers located near cleaning operations.
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Figure 19: Testing inch and a half fire hose. |
Figure 20: Testing inch and a half fire hose.
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Figure 21: Storage of flammables.
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Respiratory Hazards |
Potential Hazards:
The most hazardous conditions in barge cleaning operations occur while exposing workers to
oxygen-deficient atmospheres and
toxic
atmospheres. Toxic vapors may be produced by the previous cargo or
cleaning agents and could present significant health hazards. When
encountered in confined or enclosed spaces, these agents
produce vapors that are often heavier than air. This can cause
displacement of air, reducing oxygen levels, which may be fatal.
Requirements and Example Solutions:
- Ensure adequate ventilation to maintain air concentrations below the
permissible exposure limit (PEL). [1915.32(a)(2)]
- The
Shipyard Competent Person (SCP) may require continual monitoring to
determine that air concentrations are within the PELs and below
immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH)
levels. If they are not, additional engineering controls such as
ventilation, administrative controls, or PPE such as respirators must
be used. [1915.32(a)(3)
and
Maritime
Labor/Industry Recommendations]
- Airline respirators may be necessary if ventilation is not adequate.
- Respirators must comply with 1915.154.
[1910.134]
- A hazard assessment shall be done to determine the proper selection
of respirators. [1915.152(b)]
Additional Resources:
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Figure 22: Ventilation hoses extending into confined space
to ensure safe conditions.
(Improper practice if only access.)
Figure 23: Proper Practice: Use ventilation stack to ventilate space.
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Figure 24: Containers of cleaning materials labeled with their hazards. |
Figure 25: Part of respiratory fit test prior to entry.
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Figure 28: Worker wearing airline respirator with emergency escape air cylinder.
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Figure 26: PPE preparations for inline supplied fresh air respirator. |
Figure 27: Regulator for inline breathing air. |
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Maritime
Labor/Industry Recommendations |
- Activities such as disturbing or removing sludge or scale, materials
trapped below water, leaking pipelines or valves, and variation in
temperature may cause atmospheric conditions to change. Frequent or
continuous monitoring may be necessary.
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Corrosive and Toxic Material Hazards |
Potential Hazards:
Workers using toxic and/or corrosive cleaning solutions are at risk if
inhaled, or skin or
eye contact occur. Note: Workers should understand the hazards associated
with the materials used and contained in the space. This includes training
in accordance with the Hazard Communication
standard. [1915.1200]
Hazards include:
- Organ damage by absorption through the skin or eye
- Eye or skin
irritation
- Defatting of skin
Requirements and Example Solutions:
- Use adequate ventilation. See the
Confined or Enclosed Space:
Ventilation chapter.
- The
Shipyard
Competent Person (SCP) may require continual monitoring to
determine that air concentrations are within the PELs and below IDLH
levels. If they are not, additional engineering controls such as
ventilation, administrative controls, or PPE such as respirators must
be used. [1915.32(a)(3)]
- Spills of hazardous materials must be cleaned up as work progresses.
[1915.13(b)(5)]
- Because of the corrosive nature of many of the materials used,
suitable facilities for quick drenching or flushing of the eyes and
body shall be available. [1910.151(c)
and
Maritime
Labor/Industry Recommendations]
- Washing facilities must be available when working with materials
which may be harmful through skin contact. [1915.97(b)]
- Personal hygiene practices must be encouraged, such as washing hands
and face before eating, drinking, and smoking.
[1915.97(b)]
- See the
PPE: Cleaning module.
Additional Resources:
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Figure 29: Worker exposed to skin and eye contact hazards from cleaners and residues.
Figure 30: Emergency eye wash located near cleaning operations.
Figure 31: Emergency shower.
Figure 32: Washing facilities for workers. |
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Maritime
Labor/Industry Recommendations
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- Fixed or portable eye wash stations/safety showers should meet ANSI
Z358.1-2004: Emergency Eye Wash and Shower Equipment.
- Activities such as disturbing or removing sludge or scale, materials
trapped below water, leaking pipelines or valves, and variation in
temperature may cause atmospheric conditions to change. Frequent or
continuous monitoring may be necessary.
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Excessive Noise
Hazards |
Potential Hazards:
Use of high-pressure cleaning equipment may produce
high levels of noise, which could lead to hearing loss, and often
necessitates a hearing conservation program. Some examples of excessively
loud operations are:
- Use of high-pressure water and steam guns
- Use of pumps
- Use of generators
- Use of ventilation equipment
Requirements and Example Solutions:
Additional Resources:
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The OSHA
Hierarchy of Controls
- Engineering Controls
- Administrative Controls
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
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Figure 33: Workers exposed to noise from pressure washing.
Figure 34: Workers wearing earmuffs for protection from excessive noise. |
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Maritime
Labor/Industry Recommendations
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- Purchase or modify equipment to reduce noise levels.
- Isolate or locate noisy equipment away from workers.
- Shield noisy equipment.
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Biological Hazards |
Potential Hazards:
Some operations expose employees to biological hazards from sewage and human
waste, fungi and molds, and decomposing organic products.
- Collection, holding, and transfer (CHT) tanks, which workers are often required to enter and clean, may
contain dangerous, even fatal, levels of hydrogen sulfide or other
toxic gases, which are products of decomposing human waste.
- Toxic spores inhaled from fungi and molds growing on grain and
lumber may pose an inhalation hazard.
Requirements and Example Solutions:
- Employees shall be
trained to recognize the potential hazards, use proper work practices,
recognize adverse health effects, and understand the physical signs
and reactions related to exposures. They shall also be trained
to select and use appropriate PPE. [1915.12(d)(2)
and 1915.1200]
- Personal hygiene practices must be encouraged, such as: [1915.97]
- Decontamination (removal of biological matter from PPE and
equipment)
- Showers (removal of biological matter from the worker) [1910.141]
- Proper disposal of laundry/coveralls (prevention of exposure to
others)
Additional Resources:
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Figure 35: CHT tank poses hydrogen sulfide gas and other hazards.
Figure 36: Worker removing trash from work area.
Figure 37: Washing station for workers. |
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Maritime
Labor/Industry Recommendations
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- Maritime Labor/Industry recommends having a Bloodborne Pathogens program.
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Limited Access
Hazards |
Potential Hazards:
When working in confined or enclosed spaces, egress may be blocked by:
- Improperly located equipment
- Ventilation ducts and hoses running through the opening
Requirements and Example Solutions:
- When employees work in confined or enclosed spaces with limited
access, the access must not be blocked or impeded by ventilation
ducts, hoses, or other equipment. [1915.76(b)(2)]
- More than one means of access must be provided where practical. [1915.76(b)(1)]
- Additional openings should be considered for ducts, hoses, and other
equipment.
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Figure 38: Improper practice: Access to
confined space blocked by ventilation hoses. if only access. (Improper
practice if only access.)
Figure 39: Ventilation covers and access. |
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Slip and Trip
Hazards
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Potential Hazards:
Workers performing barge cleaning operations are exposed
to slippery working surfaces and tripping hazards. This places
workers at risk of:
- Slipping off oily and greasy ladders
- Slipping and falling on oily decks
- Tripping over equipment, hoses, and vessel structures
Requirements and Example Solutions:
Additional Resources:
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Figure 40: Temporary explosion-proof lighting reduces tripping hazards.
Figure 41: Tripping hazards eliminated by raised walkway.
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Figure 42: Slippery surfaces created while washing barge deck.
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Figure 43: Tripping hazard eliminated by proper storage of hoses. |
Figure 44: Use slip-resistant ramp. |
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Work Environment
Temperature Related Hazards |
Potential Hazards:
Extreme environmental hazards include temperature, humidity, and air
movement within the work area. A combination of PPE
use, heat-producing equipment, work activity, and environmental conditions
can cause temperature-related illnesses.
Heat-related illnesses include:
- Heat Stress
- Heat Stroke
- Heat Cramps
- Dehydration
Cold-related illnesses include:
Additional Resources:
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Figure 45: Workers in protective suits are at higher risk of heat stress.
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Maritime
Labor/Industry Recommendations |
Example Solutions:
Maritime Labor/Industry recommends the following for heat-related
illnesses:
- Plenty of fluids
- Frequent breaks
- Ice vest
- Shaded or cooled break areas
- Ventilation
- Awareness training
Maritime Labor/Industry recommends the following for cold-related illnesses:
- Appropriate insulated PPE
- Warming areas for breaks
- Awareness training
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High-Pressure
Hazards
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Potential Hazards:
The use of high-pressure cleaning equipment may expose the
operator and other workers in the area to the following hazards:
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Contact with high-pressure steam, water, or air streams from cleaning
equipment
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Contact by uncontrolled high-pressure hoses
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Contact with steam, water, or air leaks in the high-pressure
equipment
Injuries associated with these hazards include:
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Loss of body parts such as fingers, hands, toes, etc.
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Lacerations
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Burns
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Loss of sight
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Infections from water and debris trapped under the skin
Requirements and Example Solutions:
- Steam guns must be insulated to prevent heat burns to the
operator. [1915.33(e)]
- Appropriate PPE shall be used. [1915.152]
- Access to the area should be controlled.
- Hoses and connections should be inspected before each use.
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Figure 46: Washing inside of fuel barge.
Figure 47: Workers exposed to hazards of high
pressure water.
Figure 48: Worker washing barge deck with high pressure water.
Figure 49: Hoses and connections should be inspected. |
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Electrical Hazards
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Potential Hazards:
Employees who work with or around electrical equipment in wet or damp
locations have an increased risk of getting shocked or electrocuted
due to:
- Exposed energized electrical parts
- Open lighting parts (such as broken bulbs, exposed conductors)
- Damaged insulation on power cords
Electrical equipment (unless this equipment is
explosion proof or intrinsically safe) must not be used on hot
barges until they are gas free (such as barges that have contained
flammable/combustible material including gasoline, methanol,
styrene, toluene, etc.). Non-explosion proof or non-intrinsically
safe electrical equipment may be used on a barge after it has been
determined the barge is gas-free.
[1915.36]
Note: Arcing and spark producing tools are
not to be used where flammable liquids are capable of creating a
flammable atmosphere. [1915.36]
Requirements and Example Solutions:
- Portable electric tools must be grounded or double
insulated. [1915.132(a)]
- Temporary lighting must be grounded. [1915.92(c)]
- Power and lighting cables must be inspected by a person
competent to evaluate electrical hazards. (Note: This
is not the Shipyard Competent Person). [1915.36(a)(5)]
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Figure 50: Damaged electrical cable poses shock hazard.
Figure 51: Portable electric tools must be grounded or double insulated.
Figure 52: Temporary lights should be inspected before use. |
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Maritime
Labor/Industry Recommendations |
- All electrical tools or equipment should undergo a visual
inspection before use.
- All portable electric hand tools and temporary lighting
systems should use Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI).
- Electrical tools and equipment should correspond with the
requirements of the job.
- Electrical equipment and tools should be used with proper
circuit protection for the voltage and amperage used.
- Only qualified electricians should attempt repair of
electrical tools and equipment in use.
- A Ground Assurance Program should be in place for all
electrical tools and equipment used including:
- Records of tools inspected and repaired
- Records of electrical boxes inspected and repaired
- Records of electrical extension cords inspected and
repaired
- Recall of records of the above
- The requirements of the Ground Assurance Program should be performed on a
regular basis.
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