Requirements for atmosphere testing instrument for enclosed spaces

At MSC 94, an amendment to SOLAS XI-1 was made, introducing a new regulation 7. This regulation requires an atmosphere testing instrument for enclosed spaces. The amendment enters into force on 2016-07-01, and requires the following:

Due to the serious threat posed to people working in enclosed spaces on board ships, IMO introduced new requirements to SOLAS Chapter III Regulation 19, which entered into force from 1 January 2015. Since then crew members are required to participate in an enclosed space entry and rescue drill on board the ship at least once every two months.

The IMO also adopted mandatory requirements for portable atmosphere testing instruments to be carried on board ships in November 2014 which will enter into force on 1 July 2016, as SOLAS regulation XI-1/7. In accordance with the amendments to SOLAS regulation XI-1/7 contained in IMO Resolution MSC.380 (94):

• every ship to which SOLAS Chapter I applies shall carry an appropriate portable atmosphere testing instrument or instruments;
• as a minimum, these shall be capable of measuring concentrations of oxygen, flammable gases or vapours, hydrogen sulphide and carbon monoxide prior to entry into enclosed spaces;
• instruments carried under other requirements may satisfy this regulation;
• suitable means shall be provided for the calibration of all such instruments.