DON'T GAMBLE WITH SAFETY ON CHEMICAL TANKERS

Working on board a chemical tanker has special dangers due to the variety of hazardous cargo this type of ship can carry.

Safe working practice on board chemical tankers is largely defined by the mixture of cargo carried at any given moment, and it is therefore critical that everyone on board knows exactly what cargo is carried. This video package demonstrates, to all on board what could happen if this cardinal rule is ignored. The program illustrates the 'fate' of a seaman who 'gambles' with safety when the cargo includes flammable corrosive and toxic substances. He blows himself up, gets sprayed with acid and gets poisoned inside a tank where toxic fumes are present. All this, because he ignores some of the simplest safety rules appropriate in most situations.

For example, he carries his metal tools in unsafe containers, he wears no safety helmet, chemical suit or gloves; he is more interested in listening to his CD on the main deck! He enters a tank without an entry permit, he tells no-one about his intentions and ignores all the safety rules applicable when entering enclosed spaces. He gets more than he bargained for!

The video, having shown in graphic images what can happen if you ignore safety, then shows how to carry out these operational procedures without 'gambling' with safety. The same seaman is seen following all the safety procedures stipulated on his entry permit. He has become a safe and effective member of the operational team on board his ship.