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Gard Guidance Masters

2.8.7.5 SHIP'S VISITORS, AGENTS, CONTRACTORS ETC.

Although agents may be familiar with the environment of a vessel, the main causes of accidents involving agents are

insufficiently rigged access ladders to the vessel

insufficient lighting in alleyways

obstacles and hazards on deck

slippery or icy surfaces.

If possible, agents should be accompanied by a crew member at all times whilst on board the vessel so they can be warned of any hazards or obstacles and receive immediate assistance if injured.

If contractors are assigned to work on board, the Master and his/her officers should ensure that the contractors have properly assessed the risks associated with such works. They also need to be warned about events taking place during their time on board which may affect their personal safety. The Master and his/her officers should ensure that the equipment used by contractors is in good working order. The principles of safe working equipment and safe working practices as described in sections 2.8.4 Safe working environment and 2.8.5 Safe working practices above apply without exception to contractors as well.

Special works, such as disconnecting fuel hoses, must be performed by the vessel’s engineers. Hot work must be supervised at all times. Please see section 2.8.5.8 Hot work.

Visitors are often unfamiliar with the dangers on board. Consequently, they are at greater risk than others of suffering a personal injury. Accordingly

visitors’ access to the vessel should be restricted

visitors should never be left unattended, but should be accompanied by a member of the ship’s crew at all times

hazards and obstacles should be clearly marked and pointed out to the visitors by the accompanying crew member

visitors should be provided with suitable Personal Protective Equipment, e.g. hard hats, and be instructed in its correct use, please see section 2.8.4.1 Safe working clothes – Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

Apart from the personal injury suffered as a result of an accident, the consequences of a claim lodged against the Company and involving the P&I insurers must not be underestimated.

2.8.7.6 Ships visitors, agents, contracts etc.