Enclosed Space Rescue and Emergency Response Checklist
This enclosed space rescue and emergency response checklist ensures compliance with SOLAS Chapter III Regulation 19 (Shipboard Training and Drills) for enclosed space rescue drills, STCW Code Section A-VI/1 enclosed space rescue training requirements, and company SMS emergency response procedures. Enclosed space fatalities often involve multiple victims - rescuers who enter without proper protection to help a collapsed colleague.
- Industry: Maritime
- Frequency: Per Event / Monthly Drill
- Estimated Time: 30-45 minutes
- Role: Ship Safety Officer / Master / Officer in Charge
- Total Items: 30
- Compliance: SOLAS III/19 Enclosed Space Rescue Drills, STCW Code A-VI/1 Enclosed Space Safety, IMO MSC.1/Circ.1401 Entry Enclosed Spaces, ISGOTT Section 9 Enclosed Space Entry, Company SMS Enclosed Space Emergency Response
Alarm and Emergency Response
Initial response actions.
- Emergency alarm raised immediately on discovery of casualty?
- Master and Officer on Watch notified immediately?
- WARNING: No one to enter space without BA and rescue equipment?
- Rescue team mustered and briefed before any entry attempt?
- Mayday broadcast sent to alert coastal radio/other vessels if serious?
Rescue Team Preparation
Team equipment and readiness.
- ALL rescue team members wearing full BA before entry?
- Rescue lifelines attached to each rescuer with tending line outside?
- Calibrated portable gas detector confirmed operational before entry?
- Rescue harness available for use on casualty?
- Communication method established between rescue team and outside attendant?
Atmosphere and Entry
Atmosphere checks before entry.
- Oxygen level measured at entry point and within space?
- Flammable gas level measured - below 1% LEL for hot work, below 10% LEL for entry?
- H2S, CO, and relevant toxic gas levels checked?
- Forced ventilation running to reduce contaminants during rescue?
- Continual atmospheric monitoring during entire rescue operation?
Medical Response
Casualty care on extraction.
- First aid team with oxygen resuscitator standing by at space entrance?
- CPR commenced immediately on extraction if casualty not breathing?
- TMAS (Telemedical Assistance Service) contacted for medical guidance?
- Medevac/evacuation arranged if casualty condition serious?
- Hyperbaric treatment arranged if decompression illness suspected?
Scene Security and Investigation
Post-rescue actions.
- Enclosed space sealed and entry prohibited pending investigation?
- Flag state notified of any fatal or serious injury in enclosed space?
- Scene preserved - no disturbance until investigation authority advises?
- Company/DPA notified immediately of incident?
- Witness statements recorded from all crew involved while memory fresh?
Drill Debrief / Incident Investigation
Learning from the event.
- Formal debrief held with all participants after drill/incident?
- Response times and actions evaluated against SMS procedures?
- Equipment deficiencies identified and corrective actions assigned?
- Drill record completed and filed per SOLAS requirements?
- Rescue Notes / Drill Debrief
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Why Use This Enclosed Space Rescue and Emergency Response Checklist?
This enclosed space rescue and emergency response checklist helps maritime teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for ship safety officer / master / officer in charge professionals, this checklist covers 30 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: per event / monthly drill.
Ensures compliance with SOLAS III/19 Enclosed Space Rescue Drills, STCW Code A-VI/1 Enclosed Space Safety, IMO MSC.1/Circ.1401 Entry Enclosed Spaces, ISGOTT Section 9 Enclosed Space Entry, Company SMS Enclosed Space Emergency Response. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Enclosed Space Rescue and Emergency Response Checklist cover?
This checklist covers 30 inspection items across 6 sections: Alarm and Emergency Response, Rescue Team Preparation, Atmosphere and Entry, Medical Response, Scene Security and Investigation, Drill Debrief / Incident Investigation. It is designed for maritime operations and compliance.
How often should this checklist be completed?
This checklist should be completed per event / monthly drill. Each completion takes approximately 30-45 minutes.
Who should use this Enclosed Space Rescue and Emergency Response Checklist?
This checklist is designed for Ship Safety Officer / Master / Officer in Charge professionals in the maritime industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.
Can I download this checklist as a PDF?
Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.