IMCA Press Release » Three more pocket safety cards from IMCA

The chilling statistic that over 50% 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 & 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 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.

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

Notes to Editors (common)

IMCA is an international association with well over 850 members in 60 countries, as at September 2011, representing offshore, marine and underwater engineering companies. IMCA has four technical divisions, covering marine/specialist vessel operations, offshore diving, hydrographic survey and remote systems and ROVs, plus geographic sections for the Asia-Pacific, South America, Europe & Africa, Middle East & India and Central & North America regions. As well as a core focus on safety, the environment, competence and training. IMCA seeks to promote its members' common interests, to resolve industry-wide issues and to provide an authoritative voice for its members.
IMCA publishes some 200 guidance notes and technical reports. These have been developed over the years and are widely distributed. They are a definition of what IMCA stands for, including widely recognised diving and ROV codes of practice, DP documentation, marine good practice guidance, the Common Marine Inspection Document, safety recommendation, outline training syllabi and the IMCA competence scheme guidance. In addition to the range of printed guidance documents, IMCA also produces safety promotional materials, circulates information notes and safety flashes.
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For more details, please contact Hugh Williams, IMCA Chief Executive

THREE MORE POCKET SAFETY CARDS FROM IMCA