Shipyard Confined Space & Hot Work Inspection Checklist

Is a valid Marine Chemist Certificate conspicuously posted at the entrance to the confined space, specifying acceptable entry conditions?

Does the Marine Chemist Certificate clearly state the specific spaces certified and any limitations or endorsements?

Verify that the marine chemist's testing equipment (e.g., gas detectors) has current calibration certificates.

Are records of atmospheric testing (oxygen, LEL, toxic gases) available and consistent with the Marine Chemist Certificate?

Confirm that the Marine Chemist Certificate has not expired and is valid for the current work shift.

Has the Marine Chemist communicated all potential hazards and certificate requirements to the shipyard competent person and affected employees?

Is a hot work permit issued and signed by the shipyard competent person, referencing the Marine Chemist Certificate?

Is the hot work permit displayed prominently at the hot work location?

Are any amendments or changes to the Marine Chemist Certificate properly documented and communicated?

Is a written confined space entry program in place, including a permit system?

Are entrants and attendants properly trained and aware of their roles and responsibilities?

Is continuous atmospheric monitoring being conducted during confined space entry?

Is adequate ventilation provided to maintain a safe atmosphere within the confined space?

Is a rescue plan in place and readily available, including necessary equipment and trained personnel?

Is a reliable communication system established between the entrant and the attendant?

Are all potential hazards (e.g., pipelines, electrical sources) properly isolated and locked out/tagged out?

Is appropriate emergency equipment (e.g., self-contained breathing apparatus, retrieval equipment) readily available?

Is adequate lighting provided within the confined space to ensure safe working conditions?

Are all entrants aware of the hazards within the confined space and the necessary precautions?

Is a certified fire watch present with appropriate fire extinguishing equipment?

Verify that fire extinguishers are readily accessible, fully charged, and recently inspected.

Have all combustible materials been removed or protected from ignition sources within 35 feet of the hot work area?

Inspect welding leads for damage, proper insulation, and secure connections.

Are welding machines properly grounded to prevent electrical shock hazards?

Is adequate ventilation provided to remove welding fumes and prevent the accumulation of flammable gases?

Is slag and sparks contained to prevent fire hazards and injuries to personnel?

Are welders and fire watches wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including eye protection, gloves, and flame-resistant clothing?

Is the hot work area kept clean and free of debris to prevent fire hazards?

Will the fire watch remain in the area for at least 30 minutes after completion of hot work to monitor for smoldering fires?

Are appropriate respirators (e.g., supplied air respirators) provided and used when atmospheric hazards are present?

Are appropriate eye protection (e.g., safety glasses, welding helmets) worn by all personnel in the area?

Is hearing protection provided and used in areas with high noise levels?

Is appropriate protective clothing (e.g., flame-resistant clothing, gloves) worn to protect against burns and other hazards?

Are safety shoes or boots worn to protect against foot injuries?

Inspect harnesses and lanyards for damage before each use, if fall protection is required.

Ensure all PPE fits properly and is in good working condition.

Have all employees been trained on the proper use, maintenance, and limitations of PPE?

Are face shields used when grinding or performing other tasks that generate flying debris?

Are walking and working surfaces free of slip, trip, and fall hazards?

Is adequate lighting provided in all work areas?

Are access and egress routes clear and unobstructed?

Are electrical cords and equipment in good condition and properly grounded?

Are compressed gas cylinders properly secured and stored?

Are fire extinguishers, fire hoses, and other fire protection equipment readily accessible and in good working order?

Is a first-aid kit readily available and adequately stocked?

Are spill control materials available and readily accessible in areas where hazardous materials are used or stored?

Are waste materials properly disposed of to prevent fire hazards and environmental contamination?

Are appropriate safety signs and postings displayed in relevant areas?