Offshore Vessel Deck Water Management

Offshore Vessel Deck Water Management Specification that member companies can use to carry out their risk assessments related to operation of crew on the back decks of vessels.

Standardisation

Challenge

One of the key risks that presents the most significant consequences to operators on the back decks of offshore vessels is ‘green water’ that can shift cargo and wash operators off their feet. Maintaining the appropriate operational control while minimising risk to deck operators follows is complicated slightly by the fact that one of four types of controls on the stern of a vessel can be applied. In addition, recent research by member companies/universities into flexible barriers is available, but not easily accessible to all that could make use of it.

Solution

The Marine Working Group has identified a need for a Specification that companies can use to carry out their risk assessments related to operation of crew on the back decks of vessels when flowing water may be present, and select the appropriate controls for the situation based on common criteria.

Result

Following extensive consultation, Safer Together has developed an Offshore Vessel Deck Water Management Specification that provides a process for selection of the appropriate means of control of deck water, and the criteria for selection of the appropriate controls to be applied.

Reference is also provided to the design criteria for flexible barriers in a location available to all members of Safer Together, to assist any interested parties in making use of the research that was done in the area of flexible barriers.