Initial Entry Testing >> PPE for the Shipyard Competent Person (SCP), Certified Marine Chemist (CMC), and Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH)

OSHA hierarchy of controls is: first, engineering; second, administration controls; and third, PPE.

Typical PPE for shipyard workers may include:

  • Hard hats.
  • Safety glasses.
  • Safety boots (hard toed).
  • Gloves.
  • Sleeved shirts.
  • Long pants (no shorts or cut-offs).
  • Hearing protection.
  • A Flashlight or lightstick.

All enclosed and confined spaces which have been sealed and/or contain or have contained combustible or flammable liquids or gases or toxic, corrosive or irritant, must be tested before initial entry. Periodic retesting after initial entry also may be required, depending on operations and space conditions. Testing includes air monitoring, physical entry, and inspection of the space. Test results may necessitate additional personal protective equipment (PPE).

In addition to typical shipyard PPE, if there are toxic or corrosive coatings or residues, shipyard employees may require additional protective clothing and respiratory protection.

Additional PPE requirements depend upon what the space contains or has contained. The Shipyard Competent Person (SCP) or Certified Marine Chemist (CMC) should consider the previous cargoes.

Additional PPE options include the following:

  • Impervious clothing such as:
    • Gloves.
    • Boots.
    • Coveralls.
  • Respiratory protection such as:
    • Air purifying respirator.
    • Supplied air respirator.
  • Personal flotation devices (for internal water-flooded tank inspections)