Three more pocket safety cards from IMCA

An IMCA, International Marine Contractors Association product story

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Nov 29, 2005

Three additional pocket safety cards are being offered by IMCA: 'Confined spaces can be deadly'; 'Workplace Safety Self Assessment'; and 'Stay Safe at the Wheel - Cutting and Grinding Safety'.

The chilling statistic that over 50 per cent of workers who die in confined spaces are attempting to rescue others accentuates the fact that safety is of prime concern in the marine contracting industry.

This is confirmed by the publication of three additional pocket safety cards by IMCA (the International Marine Contractors Association): 'Confined spaces can be deadly'; 'Workplace Safety Self Assessment'; and 'Stay Safe at the Wheel - Cutting and Grinding Safety'.

"All three new cards deal with vital safety issues," explains IMCA's technical director, Jane Bugler.

"On the 'Confined Spaces' card we list the specific hazards that can be encountered in confined spaces; suggest preventative measures; give a check-list for use before entering a confined space, and bullet points to take into consideration when working there.

"We urge users of the card to remember that regular communication is of primary importance and that contact should be ensured either through regular talking or signalling.

"We ask the question 'Can the work be done in another way?'; and, with rescue in mind, suggest that rescue equipment and a trained rescue team with breathing apparatus or other PPE (personal protection equipment) should be standing by within easy reach of the entry point".

The 'Workplace Safety Self Assessment' card lists basic steps to safety on one side; and, on the other side, eight vital questions that workers should ask themselves.

"A workplace safety self-assessment is a proven tool for preventing accidents," says Jane Bugler.

"It should be completed every time a worker goes on shift and arrives at the workplace, and whenever a specific job is being approached or planned.

"The card bears the all-important message 'If in doubt about the answers to any of the questions, STOP and speak to your supervisor'".

The final new card aims to help offshore workers stay 'Safe at the Wheel' when they are cutting or grinding.

There are six vital headings: Before Use, Procedures, Handling, PPE, During Use, and After Use.

"If these steps are followed, safety can be guaranteed," says Jane Bugler.

Previously published pocket safety cards available from IMCA are: Manual handling safety guide; Preventing slips and trips; Toolbox talks; Lifting operations; Lifting equipment; Working at height - preventing and dealing with falls; Drug and alcohol misuse - the effects; and Watch your hands.

Members can download the print files from IMCA's members-only website, taking advantage of the space for company names, logos and other references.

Sets of 100 cards are also available at £25+VAT for members and £50+VAT for non-members - there is an additional charge for delivery outside Europe.

Further information on the safety cards series is available from IMCA.