Shipyard Safety

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. But if you are at the clinic due to an injury, your production is zero and there is no quality to worry about. 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.