WORKING ALOFT ON CONTAINER SHIPS

Code No: 687

Video Running Time: 14 minutes

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Slips, trips and falls are a common cause of accidents on all ships but on container ships there are some specific hazards associated with working aloft which give rise to many serious accidents. This training package considers the common working patterns that give rise to problems and stresses that use of correct procedures can avoid these.

The use of hard hats and proper protective clothing can avoid the risk of being injured by twist-locks and lashing bars being thrown down, or falling, from the tops of containers. Removing unused rods can also cause accidents, particularly the longest and heaviest size which can weigh more than 50Kg.

Container movement in and out of the holds is also a hazard as the crane operator may have a very limited view of someone standing by the hatch or in the hold. Safety harnesses sometimes limit freedom of movement and may not be connected to a fixed point. This may speed up the job but at the risk of serious injury if a fall ensues. Checking the temperatures on 2nd tier reefers is also a job where some people try and cut corners; climbing up the lashing bars rather than using a ladder.

The video draws a clear distinction between good and bad practice. This is linked to appropriate sections of the accompanying booklet. Well-prepared use of this training package will provide an effective means of highlighting key safety issues associated with working aloft on container ships and will help reduce the risk of accidents.