Prevention and crew accommodation

(1) Hinged covers of hatchways, manholes and other similar openings shall be protected against accidental closing. In particulars heavy covers on escape hatches shall be equipped with counterweights. Escape doors and covers of escape and access hatches shall be so constructed as to be capable of being opened from either side of the door or cover. (2) The dimensions of access hatches shall be such that it will allow a person to have a quick and easy escape to a safe place in the event of an emergency. Where practicable, the dimensions of access hatches of cargo and machinery spaces shall be such that they will facilitate expeditious rescue operation. (3) Handrails, grabrails and handholds of sufficient size and strength shall be provided where necessary in the opinion of the Administration for persons to hold on when the ship is severely rolling or pitching. (4) Skylights of machinery spaces or other similar opening which are normally kept open at sea shall be provided with adequately spaced protective bars or other arrangements to the satisfaction of the Administration to prevent a person from falling into the space accidentally. Where the size of such an opening is small, the Administration may waive this requirement if satisfied that due to the small size of the opening no protective arrangement is necessary. (5) Surfaces of all decks shall be so prepared or treated as to minimize the possibility of persons slipping. In particular, decks and platforms in machinery spaces, floors of galleys, decks at winches and areas at the foot and head of ladders and in front of Merchant Ships (Registration) 133 doors and steps of ladders shall be provided with anti-slip surfaces. (6) Moving parts of machinery which are so exposed as to cause accidents shall be properly guarded and secured. (7) All crew accommodation shall be kept in a habitable and sanitary condition. (8) In addition to complying with the provisions of this regulation, every ship shall comply with any other requirements which, in the opinion of the Administration, are deemed necessary to prevent accidents at sea and to maintain appropriate living and working conditions. Such requirements as set forth by the Administration shall be, to a reasonable and practicable extent, consistent with the ILO Code of Practice, “Accident Prevention on board ships at sea and in port”.