Pump Room Entry

Measures to minimize pump room hazards.

Ventilation must be switched on at least 30 minutes. Prior pump room entry.
Before starting any cargo operation:
1. An inspection should be made to ensure that strainer covers, inspection plates and drain plugs are in position and secure.
2. Drain valves in the pump-room cargo system, especially those on cargo oil pumps, should be firmly closed.
3. Any bulkhead glands should be checked and adjusted or lubricated, as necessary, to ensure an efficient gas-tight seal between the pump-room and the machinery space.
4. During all cargo operations, including loading:
5. The pump-room should be inspected at regular intervals to check for leakages from glands, drain plugs and drain valves, especially those fitted to the cargo pumps.
6. If the pumps are in use, pump glands, bearings and the bulkhead glands (if fitted) should be checked for overheating. In the event of leakage or overheating, the pump should be stopped.
7. No attempt should be made to adjust the pump glands on rotating shafts while the pump is in service.

Formal procedures should be in place to control pump-room entry. The procedure used should be based on a risk assessment, and should ensure that risk mitigation measures are followed and that entries into the space are recorded.

A communications system should provide links between the pump-room, Navigation Bridge, engine room and cargo control room. In addition, audible and visual repeaters for essential alarm systems, such as the general alarm and the fixed extinguishing system alarm, should be provided within the pump-room.

Arrangements should be established to enable effective communication to be maintained at all times between personnel within the pump-room and those outside. Regular communication checks should be made a pre-agreed intervals and failure to respond should be cause to raise the alarm.

VHF/UHF communication should not be used as a primary communication method where it is known that reception may not be reliable or practicable due to noise. Where communication by VHF/UHF is difficult, it is recommended that a standby person is positioned on the pump-room top and that a visual and remote communication procedure is put in place.

The frequency of pump-room entry for routine inspection purposes during cargo operations should be reviewed with a view to minimizing personnel exposure.

Notices should be displayed at the pump-room entrance prohibiting entry without formal permission.