2.8.6.3 ACCIDENT PREVENTION
The following steps should be taken to reduce the risk of accidents occurring
on and under deck steps must be clearly marked, preferably painted in
contrasting colours
handrails must be intact on all stairs and walkways to provide a safe
grip
in areas with dimmed lighting, such as bars, there should be sufficient
direct lighting to light up stairs and steps
warning signs of an appropriate size and colour should be displayed
where required, e.g. “Slippery when wet”
the depths should be clearly shown on the sides of swimming pools
empty swimming pools should be covered with safety nets to prevent unauthorised
access and accidental falls
dangerous or radio transmission areas must be fenced off to prevent
unauthorised access
intoxicated passengers should not be permitted to consume further amounts
of alcohol
wherever possible, personnel should be available to give a helping hand
– a simple fall, particularly by an elderly passenger, may cause severe
fractures requiring lengthy medical care
platforms on accommodation ladders and ramps used for embarkation, disembarkation
and boat transfers should be sufficiently railed and have a non-slip surface
properly trained personnel should be available to assist
lifebuoys should be in place, ready for use
life jackets must be worn by everybody during excursions in open boats.
If the weather is expected to deteriorate warnings should be given and appropriate
measures are to be taken by the vessel’s command, such as
prohibit access to the outer decks
suspend all leisure activities
instruct all passengers to stay in their cabins.
Seats, doors and bunk ladders need special attention
secure and, where appropriate, lash all seating on the vessel
clamps holding cabin doors should be in proper working condition
closing or sliding doors should be provided with damped automatic door
closures slowing the door down preventing fingers being trapped
bunk ladders in cabins should be safely secured.
If an accident occurs, even a simple slip or fall, it is very important to
show concern and provide immediate help and assistance – the ship’s
doctor should be called immediately.