Cleaning and other cold work often requires manual activities such as scraping, mucking, pumping, or gas freeing (removing liquid residues). This work often takes place in spaces containing, or that previously contained, flammable or combustible liquids, gases, or toxic or corrosive materials. A worker may be struck by high pressure equipment, slip, trip, or fall while cleaning machinery spaces, bilges, or ballast tanks.

Follow these steps to ensure safe cleaning and cold work:

• Cleaning Preparation
• Cleaning Operations
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Note: Confined space entry is one of the leading hazards associated with barge cleaning. Review the Shipbreaking: Confined/Enclosed Spaces and Other Dangerous Atmospheres chapter for information on how to protect workers from this hazard.