Stop, Think, Stay Alive: International Group Animation on Enclosed Spaces

Too many lives continue to be lost when seafarers or shore workers enter or work within enclosed spaces. The International Group has collaborated to produce a safety animation that draws attention to the risks associated with enclosed spaces and highlights some of the influences affecting people’s decision-making ultimately leading to entering these spaces without taking the necessary precautions.

Enclosed spaces exist on ships of all types and sizes and the animation looks at different scenarios that could lead to the tragic loss of life in areas on ships where an unsafe atmosphere exists.

The International Group has undertaken research into fatalities arising from enclosed spaces during the period of 2015 to 2020. Of the 83 deaths that occurred in enclosed spaces, 53% of deaths were due to oxygen depletion and over 60% of the incidents were located in the cargo hold.

The Chair of the International Group’s Ships Technical Committee – Louise Hall, said:

“The International Group clubs have collaborated to produce this important safety animation that highlights the risks to seafarers of all ranks and shore-based personnel when they enter enclosed spaces on ships.  Tragically, we continue to see cases where rescuers who attempt to save their colleagues in peril also succumb when they too discover they cannot breathe due to oxygen depletion. These awful incidents occur too often, and I welcome the inter-club collaboration that has resulted in this important safety initiative that aims to reduce the number of such incidents.”

Colin Gillespie, North’s Loss Prevention Director said, “To echo Louise’s comments, enclosed space entry incidents happen too often, and we have published a range of resources aimed at combatting this issue. This new safety animation will help our members understand the dangers and prevent loss of life.”

The animation can be viewed at the International Group’s website here.