Oxygen depletion in enclosed spaces

Abstract

The aim of this research project was to determine the rate at which oxygen depletes in enclosed spaces. Cargo holds, chain locker and double bottom tanks are only some of the enclosed spaces found on a ship. The project was conducted using oxygen depletion experiments on scrap metal in sealed and open vented containers. In addition, the speed of oxygen depletion in a replicated chain locker is investigated. It is necessary to highlight the speed of oxygen depletion in cargo hold situations and other enclosed spaces and prevent loss of life in these dangerous spaces.In the oxygen-depleted atmosphere within an enclosed space, there is no sensory indication to cause alarm regarding the dangers within that space. Therefore the results of the experiments must be seen as a significant step in raising awareness of the dangers within an enclosed space, in improving health and safety standards and preventing loss of lives at sea.

KEYWORDS:

• Enclosed spaces
• oxygen depletion
• health and safety
• chain locker
• scrap metal cargo

Acknowledgements

We would like to specially thank Paul Little, Principal and CEO of City of Glasgow College, for acting as patron of this research. Without the support of Principal Little and his team at City of Glasgow College, this would not have been possible.

We are very thankful to Linus Reichenbach for his guidance and contribution to writing and editing this publication.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Daniel Burke

Daniel C Burke is a former Head of the Nautical Studies Department at Cork Institute of Technology, and former Head of the National Maritime College of Ireland. After retiring in 2006 he became a consultant in Marine Engineering, working on the new build of the Angolan Maritime College in Sumbe. He has been the Secretary of the Stena Association of Maritime Institutes (STAMI) for several years.

Manhal Alnasser

Dr. Manhal Alnasser is an experienced lecturer and researcher in engineering and biotechnology. He is a post-graduate of Heriot Watt University, holding a PhD in Chemical Engineering. he also holds TQFE from Dundee University , Scotland and a BA in Chemical Engineering. Manhal is also an External Verifier with the SQA.