Ensuring Safety - Shipbreaking

The dismantling and disposal of obsolete ships, known as "shipbreaking," involves many safety, health, and environmental issues. Significant planning and preparation must precede any work. As the work progresses, good housekeeping practices must be maintained to reduce hazards and provide safe work surfaces and areas. Hot work is a significant component of the process of shipbreaking.

Hot work equipment used for metal-cutting must be equipped with regulators and flashback arrestors should be installed. The use of acetylene and natural gas are recommended. These do not pool in low areas.

All lines must be inspected frequently, and must be routed carefully to avoid damage and the creation of tripping hazards for workers. Falls are a major hazard in shipbreaking, due to the constantly changing work environment. Workers need to wear safety harnesses and be tied off when working near open holes and deck edges.

To learn more about Shipyard Hot Work visit our Shipyard Hot Work Online Training web page.