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Confined spaces are among the most potentially hazardous environments in a shipyard. Safety measures like proper training, equipment, and rescue plans are key to protecting workers from confined space hazards. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health estimates that about 2.1 million workers enter confined spaces annually, and related fatalities are rising. 

Here are some resources to help you prepare and communicate about confined space safety with your workers.

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Remind your team about the basics of confined space safety

Does your team need a refresher course on confined space safety? Here's a ready-made training presentation that you can use in your next safety meeting. Download now.

Get answers to common confined space questions

This webinar features a leading marine chemist discussing common questions related to confined spaces, shipyard competent person training, marine chemist certificates, and more. Watch now. (24 min)

Checklist: What to do in a confined space emergency

This checklist highlights some do's and don'ts for working in confined spaces to ensure a safe working environment for everyone involved. Download now.

The content below requires access to AEU's member-exclusive online portals. Click here to register.

Safety Bulletins

• Confined Space Entry
• Shipyard Competent Person (English | Spanish)

Toolbox Talks

• Shipyard Confined Space Safety (English | Spanish)

Videos

• Safety Matters: Confined Space Entry (DuPont Sustainable Solutions) (9 min)
• Shipyard Confined Space Rescue Attempt (SCA) (5 min)
• Confined Space Oxygen Enrich Air Hose Fire (SCA) (2 min)
• Confined Space Painting Lighting Explosion Fire (SCA) (2 min)

Some content below requires access to AEU's member-exclusive online portals. Click here to register.

• ASSP: The Z117.1-2022 Standard (Safety Requirements for Entering Confined Spaces)
• OSHA Shipyard Industry Standards (p.41)
• OSHA Quick Card: Permit-Required Confined Spaces
• Fact Sheet: Confined Space Safety on Commercial Fishing Vessels
• Fact Sheet: Procedures for Atmospheric Testing in Confined Spaces
• Fact Sheet: Is 911 your Confined Space Rescue Plan? 

• July 2023: Housekeeping
• August 2023: Fire and Emergency Response
• September 2023: Preventing Struck-By Injuries
• October 2023: Ergonomics in Maritime Environments
• November 2023: Foot Protection
• December 2023: Strike Zones