- Hydrocarbon and Toxic Gases.
- Oxygen Deficiency.
4.3 In addition to the Pumproom Entry procedure, other procedures may be applicable, including work permits and / or use of the Lock Out / Tag Out system.
4.4 Measures identified to control hazards should be entered as ‘Special Conditions’ and entered as such in the appropriate section of the Pumproom Entry Permit.
5. Pumproom Preparation
5.1 Bilges
5.1.1 Bilges should be maintained in a clean and dry state. Oil should not be permitted to accumulate as it presents both a source of fuel in the event of fire and a source of evaporation for gases in the pumproom.
5.2 Ventilation
5.2.1 It should be clearly understood that it is only the high capacity of the pumproom ventilation system in relation to the volume of the space, which reduces the additional risks involved in pumproom entry to an acceptable level.
5.2.2 It is therefore vital that the pumproom is thoroughly ventilated prior to (and throughout) personnel entry. Ventilation fans should be set to extraction. The doors must be left open if no separate inlet vent is provided at the top of the pumproom. This causes air to enter through the pumproom doors and promotes an escape route with improving air quality as personnel move towards the door.
5.3 Atmosphere Tests
5.3.1 The atmosphere tests should be carried out with the ventilation running.
5.3.2 The atmosphere of the pump room must be tested for hydrocarbon gas and oxygen, and also toxic gas as applicable. The results of these tests shall be entered on the Pumproom Entry Permit. Entry shall not be permitted if any readings outside those stated on the Pumproom Entry Permit or the 8-hour PEL (TLV) are obtained.
5.3.3 The atmosphere of the pumproom shall be re-tested as required at frequent intervals throughout the period of entry.
5.4 Communications
5.4.1 Communication shall be maintained always be by means of hand-held intrinsically safe radios.
5.4.2 Pumprooms shall be fitted with a “sentry” (a drop bar between the handrails or a complete gate) at the top of the pumproom access ladder. It shall be arranged with a double-sided sign such that, when the sentry is closed, the face displayed indicates that nobody is present in the pumproom. When the sentry is opened, the displayed face shall indicate that personnel are down the pumproom.
5.5 Rescue Equipment
5.5.1 The following equipment shall be ready for immediate use:
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