Focused inspection campaign - hazardous gases

Focus areas

If we inspect your vessel, we will look for:

• documented risk assessment and procedures for hazardous gases
• crew training on hazardous gas identification and response
• Information signage provided to class 4 hirers regarding hazardous gases
• sufficient ventilation in sanitary facilities.

What to expect

Inspectors will make focused inspections in conjunction with regular domestic commercial vessel inspections using a checklist. Where a deficiency is found against the checklist, the inspector will discuss it with the person in charge of the vessel with a view to ensuring the vessel is brought into compliance.

Inspection checklist

1. Does the vessel risk assessment identify and control the risk of hazardous gases?
2. Does the SMS identify regular programmed inspections and maintenance of sullage tanks and plumbing?
3. Have crew undertaken any induction, on-board familiarisation or training for identifying and responding to hazardous gases?
4. Does the SMS include clear and relevant procedures for the pumping out of blackwater, greywater, or bilgewater tanks?
5. Do the toilet areas have sufficient mechanical or natural ventilation to open air?
6. Is the vessel fitted with, or do crew have access to hazardous gas monitoring devices? (not mandated by the NCSV or USL code but may be a risk control to be implemented under the vessel's SMS, particularly for enclosed spaces)
7. Class 4 only: Is information provided to hirers about the risks of hazardous gases such as carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulphide and carbon dioxide?
8. Class 4 only: Is signage or labelling in place warning of the dangers of carbon monoxide or hydrogen sulphide in confined areas?

Download a printable version of the checklist PDF153.42 KB.

How to prepare

• Read guidance about how to reduce the risks of hazardous gases.
• Do a risk assessment and include controls for hazardous gases in your vessel's SMS.