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eTools Home : Shipyard Employment Scope | Glossary | Additional Resources | Viewing / Printing Instructions | Credits General Requirements Shipbuilding Ship Repair Shipbreaking Barge Cleaning Access » Access to Cargo Spaces and Confined Spaces   Typical access into cargo spaces is provided by the ship's ladders. A ship's ladders may be continuous straight ladders reaching up to 90 feet and may be without climbing devices, platforms, or protective cages. Confined spaces often have only one small means of entry. Portable ladders may be used to gain access to these spaces. [1915.72] Cargo Spaces Confined Spaces   Figure 1: Confined space with small opening for access. Cargo Spaces Potential Hazards: Ship's ladders can be damaged or slippery. Ship's ladders can be blocked by cargo or materials. Cargo or materials may be being moved while workers are using the ladder. Portables ladders may shift or slip. Requirements and Example Solutions: One safe and accessible ladder must be provided for each cargo space. [1915.76(a)(1)] Do not use fixed ladders that are visibly unsafe. [1915.76(a)(2)] Use portable ladders when ship's ladders are visibly unsafe. [1915.76(a)(3) and 1915.72] Do not move material or cargo while workers are using access ladders. [1915.76(a)(5)]   Figure 2: Hatch opening provided with temporary stanchions used to safely access ladder in space. Back to Top Confined Spaces Potential Hazards: Egress from the space may be blocked. There may be only one means of egress from the space. Figure 3: Access holes cut into side of ship, and ventilated without blocking exit. Requirements and Example Solutions: More than one means of access must be provided to a confined space unless the structure of the vessel makes it impractical. [1915.76(b)(1)] When the ventilation ducts must pass through the entrance of a space, they must allow for free passage. [1915.76(b)(2)] See Figure 2. Note: When there is only one means of access, collapsible ducts may be used to provide access. If ventilation equipment blocks access to the space, airline respirators as well as a stand-by employee must be used. [1915.51(c)(3)] Frequent checks must be conducted to ensure the safety of employees working alone in a confined space. [1915.94] Back to Top   eTools Home : Shipyard Employment Scope | Glossary | Additional Resources | Viewing / Printing Instructions | Credits

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