One of the most persistent safety challenges in maritime operations is the entry into enclosed spaces. Each year, a significant number of seafarers are injured or lose their lives while entering or working in these areas; often due to insufficient training, limited awareness of procedures, or a failure to recognize invisible hazards.
Tragic incidents in enclosed spaces often stem from decisions made under pressure—whether due to time constraints, operational demands, or misplaced confidence. These fatalities can occur on any vessel, at any time, and to anyone.
Rushing a task can lead to poor judgment. Never compromise safety in the name of speed. Everyone involved in the task must be fully prepared—confident in the plan, competent in their role, and ready to respond in an emergency. Preparation is key. So is communication. A strong safety culture is one where every crew member feels empowered to speak up and stop the job if something feels wrong. That single moment of courage could save a life.
Even with thorough training, no one can predict how they’ll respond in a real emergency. That’s why realistic, regular rescue drills are essential. They help build the instincts and confidence needed to act safely under pressure.
“No shortcut is worth a life. Enclosed spaces are no joke”
Worrying statistics
Despite regulatory efforts, the rate of enclosed space accidents has not significantly decreased since InterManager began tracking such incidents in 1998. In both 2022 and 2023, 14 enclosed space incidents were recorded. However, the number of casualties rose sharply in 2023—34 fatalities compared to 18 in 2022—nearly doubling the previous year’s total.
As of January 2025, InterManager estimates that approximately 350 seafarers and third-party personnel have died from asphyxiation in enclosed spaces since 1996. Alarmingly, 43 incidents since 2022 have resulted in 70 fatalities. Atmospheric hazards remain the most critical threat in these spaces. Before entering any enclosed space, the following must be thoroughly checked: oxygen level, the flammable gases level and the harmful gases level.
Incident distribution by space type (1996–May 1, 2024)
Cargo holds: 41%
Cargo oil tanks: 17%
Hold access: 10%
Accommodation areas: 4%
Ballast tanks: 4%
Hold access via auxiliary ladder: 4%
Water tanks: 3%
Chain lockers, forepeak tanks, bow thrusters, duct keels, DB voids, FCSLE: 1% each
Other spaces: 11%
Regulatory developments for safe entry
To improve safety, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) adopted Resolution A.864(20) in 1997, later revised as Resolution A.1050(27) in 2011. Since January 2015, ships have been required to conduct enclosed space entry and rescue drills every two months, in accordance with SOLAS Regulation III/19.3.6.
In July 2016, another regulation came into effect requiring all ships to carry at least one portable atmosphere testing instrument for enclosed space entry (SOLAS Regulation XI-1/7). These requirements aim to ensure crews are trained and equipped to safely enter enclosed spaces.
Despite these measures, InterManager’s report (III 10/INF.18) notes that “the number of fatalities remains substantial,” emphasizing the ongoing need for improvements in hazard awareness, space design, and procedural compliance.
Key safety principles include:
● Comprehensive identification and assessment of hazards
● Atmospheric testing prior to entry
● Prohibition of solo entry into enclosed spaces
● Ensuring all personnel understand the associated risks
To further strengthen safety, the IMO has proposed amendments to Resolution A.1050(27), introduced during the CCC 10 Sub-Committee meeting. These revisions encourage a more structured risk assessment process and a deeper understanding of hazardous atmospheres. Final approval is expected at MSC 110 in June 2025.
Recent Initiatives
In response to continuing safety concerns, the China Maritime Safety Administration (MSA) launched a focused inspection campaign in January 2025, running through October 14, 2025. The campaign aims to enhance compliance and improve onboard procedures for enclosed space entry.
Additionally, in March 2025, InterManager, The Nautical Institute, and IMarEST joined forces to address the rising toll of enclosed space fatalities. Together, they launched an industry-wide survey to gather feedback from seafarers and shore personnel, with the goal of identifying root causes and developing more effective, practical solutions.
Lastly, few years ago, the International Group of P&I Clubs launched a safety animation highlighting as a key message ”Stop, Think, Stay Alive.”
By The Editorial Team SAFETY4SEA
