Question 1

What is the role of shore-based emergency services (fire brigade, ambulance) in an enclosed space emergency while the vessel is alongside in port?

Accepted Answer

They should be called promptly as an additional resource, but the ship's own trained rescue team should still execute the immediate rescue plan rather than waiting for shore responders to arrive, since minutes matter and shore response takes time Shore emergency services add valuable additional capability (advanced medical care, specialist rescue equipment) but cannot arrive instantly. The ship's own immediately-available trained team and equipment remain the first line of response; calling for shore assistance happens in parallel with, not instead of, the onboard rescue plan.

Question 2

Under MSC.581(110), what is the maximum acceptable CO2 reading (by volume) before an enclosed space can be considered safe for entry?

Accepted Answer

Less than 0.5% by volume (5,000 ppm) Para. 7.4 sets the CO2 exposure limit at below 0.5% by volume (5,000 ppm) before entry; if this is not achieved, the space remains unsafe. CO2 is now explicitly addressed as a major asphyxiation hazard alongside oxygen depletion.

Question 3

Under the revised recommendations, is single-person entry into an enclosed space ever permitted?

Accepted Answer

No — the company must ensure single-person entry into an enclosed space is not permitted Para. 3.11 explicitly prohibits single-person entry into an enclosed space under any circumstances covered by the recommendation.