What is a risk assessment, and how is it applied to enclosed space entry?
Short answer
| Step | For an enclosed space |
|---|---|
| 1 Identify the hazards | oxygen deficiency, toxic gases (H2S, CO), flammable atmosphere, falls, engulfment, what the space last contained |
| 2 Who might be harmed | entrants, attendants, rescuers |
| 3 Evaluate and control (hierarchy) | avoid entry; isolate and ventilate; test the atmosphere; permit, attendant, rescue plan; harness, lifeline and breathing apparatus last |
| 4 Record | the assessment and the entry permit |
| 5 Review | before the job, when anything changes, and dynamically during entry |
- Definition: a systematic process to identify hazards, evaluate the risk (likelihood and severity, often on a risk matrix) and put controls in place to reach ALARP.
- Mandatory: ISM Code §1.2.2 requires the company to assess all identified risks and establish safeguards.
- Five steps: identify hazards; who might be harmed; evaluate and control through the hierarchy (eliminate, substitute, engineering, administrative, PPE last); record; review.
- Enclosed space: the assessment produces the entry permit: isolate, ventilate, test the atmosphere (oxygen 20.9%, flammable below LEL, toxics within limits), attendant, rescue plan, SCBA for any unverified atmosphere.
- Backing: SOLAS XI-1/7 (gas detectors) and III/19 (two-monthly entry and rescue drills); in India through MS Act 2025 s.147 and the DGMA DOC and SMC audits.
- As Chief Engineer: I lead and sign off the assessments for engine-department spaces and verify the controls are in place before anyone enters.
Full answer
The full answer explains each point step by step, with the regulations and figures behind it and the discussion from other candidates. It is in the MEO Class I section of the Marine One forum, open to members enrolled for the MEO Class I exam.