Figure 2: Hatch opening provided with temporary stanchions used to safely access ladder in space.

• Ship's ladders can be damaged or slippery.
• Ship's ladders can be blocked by cargo or materials.
• Cargo or materials may be being moved while workers are using the ladder.
• Portables ladders may shift or slip.

Requirements and Example Solutions:

• One safe and accessible ladder must be provided for each cargo space. [29 CFR 1915.76(a)(1)]
• Do not use fixed ladders that are visibly unsafe. [29 CFR 1915.76(a)(2)]
• Use portable ladders when ship's ladders are visibly unsafe. [29 CFR 1915.76(a)(3) and 29 CFR 1915.72]
• Do not move material or cargo while workers are using access ladders. [29 CFR 1915.76(a)(5)]

Figure 3: Access holes cut into side of ship, and ventilated without blocking exit.

• Egress from the space may be blocked.
• There may be only one means of egress from the space.

Requirements and Example Solutions:

• More than one means of access must be provided to a confined space unless the structure of the vessel makes it impractical. [29 CFR 1915.76(b)(1)]
• When the ventilation ducts must pass through the entrance of a space, they must allow for free passage. [29 CFR 1915.76(b)(2)] See Figure 2.
  • Note: When there is only one means of access, collapsible ducts may be used to provide access.
• If ventilation equipment blocks access to the space, airline respirators as well as a stand-by employee must be used. [29 CFR 1915.51(c)(3)]
• Frequent checks must be conducted to ensure the safety of employees working alone in a confined space. [29 CFR 1915.94]