Introduction, Safety and Survival
Introduction, Safety and Survival
Ships are running plants and a major number of facilities are provided within an enclosed space; e.g., the machinery space, the accommodation, the pump room etc. Accidents on board are not uncommon and people will have to be rescued from such locations to a safe area where medical care can be provided.
Ships are provided with lifesaving appliances (LSA) in the form of lifeboat, life-raft, and protective gears. In the event that the casualty will have to be taken off the ship, a helicopter rescue is also possible. All closed or poorly ventilated compartments, particularly those in which a fire has just occurred, are potentially dangerous. The atmosphere may lack oxygen, contain poisonous gases, or have presence of fire and explosion hazards.
If you are faced with the problem of rescuing an individual threatened by fire, explosive or poisonous gases, water or some other emergency, take action as deemed appropriate, until you have had time to determine the extent of the danger and your ability to cope with it.
Ship’s staff will have to be conversant with all LSA gear and practice regular drills in being familiar with the LSA equipment and safety procedures during a rescue operation.
