Shipyard work has traditionally been hazardous, with an injury-accident rate more than twice that of construction and/or general industry. OSHA has targeted the maritime industry in its Strategic Plan to reduce injuries and illnesses and prevent fatalities.

Shipyard employment is complex, with many operations that take place in essentially the same way, but at different times and in different places. On the other hand, a variety of tasks may occur simultaneously, and while seemingly unrelated, may significantly impact each other. To understand how these operations interrelate, they are broken down into the following categories:

• Ship Repair
• Shipbreaking
• Ship Building
• Barge Cleaning Operations
• Support Operations

The intent of this eTool is:

1. To help employers and employees improve shipyard safety by utilizing work practices that identify, correct and eliminate hazards;
2. To provide a training resource for workers in the industry, compliance officers and consultants; and
3. To aid in compliance with Safety and Health standards.

"Shall" and "must" are used in this eTool to indicate when a control device or other safeguard is required by OSHA; "should" is used to indicate safe work practices that are recommended by the Maritime Labor/Industry.