Carriage, Handling and Storage of Dangerous Goods along

70 RECOMMENDATIONS
strict compliance with the manufacturer’s instructions and national requirements in order to ensure
that such equipment remains in a safe condition. This is particularly relevant in the case of explosionproof
lights where incorrect closing after changing a light bulb could compromise the integrity of the
light.
To assist with routine servicing and repair, tankers should be provided with detailed maintenance
procedures and/or manuals for the specific systems and arrangements fitted onboard.
Insulation testing should be carried out on a regular basis (every three years) to ensure all equipment
is properly insulated and grounded. The test should be confirmed by a certificate. This should only be
done when no flammable gas mixture is present.
References
• ISGINTT, Chapter 4 and 8;
• Classification societies;
• Legislation 2006/137/EC: Directive of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18
December 2006 amending Directive 2006/87/EC laying down technical requirements for
inland waterway vessels; and
• IEC 60092-502 Electrical Installations in Ships – Part 502:Tankers.
ACTIONS
Technical and Management
All electrical equipment must be regularly inspected and well maintained. Only electrical equipment
approved by the classification society may be installed in the dangerous area.
Naked lights must be prohibited on deck and other places where flammable gas could be present. All
portable equipment such as but not limited to torches, cameras, radios, calculators, laptops, mobile
phones of non-approved typed must not be active, switched on or used within hazardous areas.
All portable equipment used on deck must be of a safe type, approved by a competent authority,
because of the possibility of spark formation.
All other electrical (fixed) equipment such as deck lights and cargo pumps, should be earthed. Onboard
barges, the connection is made to the main metallic structure of the vessel, which is earthed
because of the conductivity of the river.
All external doors, portholes and windows in the accommodation, stores and machinery spaces
should be closed during cargo operations to prevent the entry of gases. This requirement does not
prevent reasonable access to these spaces, but doors should not be left open unattended. Engine
room vents may be left open.
Prior to any cargo operation, a safety checklist should be used to eliminate and potential ignition
sources.
Safety instructions should be implemented and displayed onboard for all crewmembers in order to
manage the risk of fire and explosion due to ignition sources.